The X-Pat Files

December 2008

 

 (Brought to you by H&R Consultants)

 

The X-Pat Files Community E-Newsletter provides a forum for the spread of information useful for English speakers living in Aichi.  You can use the newsletter as an informational resource, and of course you can send in information you would like to share.

 

This newsletter is a community service from The Japan Real Estate and Relocation company, H&R Consultants (www.japanhomesearch.com), and is edited by Sue Conolly (http://web.mac.com/conolly).

 

  Contents for This Edition

 

 1. Womens’ Support Networks

 2. Christmas Drink Venues

 3. Bikram Yoga

 4. ANZCCJ Christmas Party

 5. The Wintry North

 6. Dolphin Cleaning Company

 7. Print Magazines in Japan

 8. Things to Do With Kids in Winter

 9. Meet and Greet Christmas Party

10. Finding Balance

 

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1. Womens’ Support Networks

 

There are many kinds of expatriate women here in Japan.  There are those who have ventured here by themselves on working holiday visas, those who have working visas on a career track, those who are married to Japanese citizens, and those who are married to fellow expatriates who have been transferred here. In many ways, being a woman here is great!  A relatively safe country for women, Japanese people are usually friendly and helpful when you respond in kind.  A good attitude is essential to your stay.

 

However, there are things that may erode away your good attitude about being a woman in Japan. You might feel like the giant gaijin for whom no clothes are made under a size 3LLL. You might feel as if some people take you less seriously. You might feel that while in your home country you had a good sense of “who you are”, this is suddenly uprooted in a land where you’re suddenly expected to be “something else”. Many women who accompany their husbands on an international assignment, for example, leave behind lives of professional success only to find that working in their chosen profession is not possible in Japan and that they are quite unexpectedly housebound. However, it does not have to be this way! Japan is a land of potential friends and a tight social support network (particularly in Nagoya!!). Find your way in to one or more of these support networks and you will realize that friendship is only an outstretched hand away…

 

The following support groups, listed in alphabetical order, are in Nagoya or online. This is by no means an exhaustive list of what is available, but is a good start! At the end are some more resources which are not only for women but could be of support to women in some situations.

 

Association of Foreign Wives of Japanese (in Nagoya and Worldwide)

 

AFWJ, the Association of Foreign Wives of Japanese (a group specifically for foreign women married or otherwise in a long term relationship with a Japanese man), has over 500 members in Japan and abroad and aims to provide members with friendship, support, mutual help in adapting to Japanese society. It also offers opportunities for social, emotional, educational and professional growth. AFWJ assists women in networking with other women who have many of the same experiences and concerns: family relationships, children's education, professional career development, personal growth and cross-cultural problems and solutions.

 

Being A Broad (online)

 

The support and information network for international women living in Japan - Started in Tokyo in 1997, Being A Broad has already helped thousands of women make the most of their lives in Japan through an active discussion board, and a number one best-selling book. 

Find out anything and everything you need to know to make the most of your life in Japan!

 

Cross Cultural Exchange Association (Nagoya)

 

The Cross-Cultural Exchange Association "CCEA" was formed in 1982 as a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cultural exchange, international understanding and friendships amongst women of all nationalities living in the Nagoya Area. Social activities, general meetings and special interest groups are some ways in which members develop friendships, discover the local community, and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Japan and other countries.

 

Digital Eve Japan (online)

 

DigitalEve Japan promotes women's digital lifestyles by offering a supportive community and programs tuned to women using IT in their workplace and in their everyday lives. Our members are Japanese and foreign women living in Japan who span a wide range of ages, technical and cultural backgrounds, and lifestyles. Many of our 425 members work in technology-related jobs, such as web designers/producers, programmers, videographers, writers, information architects, content developers, graphic designers, project managers and recruiters, or are seeking jobs in the field.

 

Foreign Executive Women in Japan (FEW) (online)

 

Foreign Executive Women (FEW) is a business and social networking organization whose aim is to help foreign women in Japan achieve their full professional and/or personal potential. FEW welcomes foreign women from all professional backgrounds and at all stages of their careers. We focus on networking, career development as well as social and volunteer activities.

 

Japan With Kids (online)

 

The Japan With Kids website (previously known as “Tokyo With Kids”) officially went live on April 22nd 1999, but is forever under construction! Please send us your ideas, photos, or write an article. Information is freedom! Pass on what you know!  Japan can be an overwhelming place when you first arrive, and on many individual occasions after. The biggest reason is probably the language barrier, though cultural differences in thinking runs a close second. There are so many things to learn, and the answer to the question always presents itself a day or two after you REALLY needed to know it.

 

Nagoya Foreign Mothers Group (Nagoya)

 

Living in Japan as a foreigner is sometimes difficult specially when you're pregnant or have a small baby and doesn't speak the language. To help foreign women in this situation the Nagoya Foreign Mothers' Group was organized in 1996 by Ms Misako Iwamoto, a veteran midwife who selflessly committed herself for years volunteering to help foreign expectant moms. For all these years members have come and gone. Many have gone back to their country, moved out of Nagoya and some are still around and we are happy to be of help to these wonderful moms. We are also grateful for their support, those moms who had babies and still come to our meetings and meet our new members and share their experiences, information and give advice as well.

 

Nagoya International School PTA (Nagoya)

 

The Nagoya International School PTA is a very active group that supports students, teachers and parents in many ways. The PTA has a ‘big heart’ for the school and find fulfillment in raising money for equipment, materials and other projects that enhance the education of our children and help ease the work-load of our teachers. It’s also a great place for school mothers to socialize and meet new friends, as well as learn information about resources in the community. You’ll find our PTA very warm and welcoming!

 

Further Resources

 

Alcoholics Anonymous in Nagoya (English speaking)

Al-Anon in Tokyo (for those affected by a family member’s drinking)

Daijob (Jobs In Japan)

Female Guide to Japan (from a Japanese teacher exchange program)

Gaijinpot (more Jobs in Japan)

International Center Counseling Services

Narcotics Anonymous Asia Pacific Forum

Overeaters Anonymous in Tokyo

Tokyo English Life Line (free telephone counseling in English)

 

Places of Worship with English Websites (for a full list of English language churches click here)

 

All Nations Fellowship

Calvary Baptist Church

Meito Church

Mikokoro (Sacred Heart) Center

Nagoya English Fellowship

Nagoya International Christian Assembly

Nagoya Mosque

Nagoya Union Church

The Orthodox Church in Nagoya

 

Japanese Language Instruction

 

Japanese Language School Database (Aichi)

I.C. Nagoya

IPE Academy

Nagoya YWCA

PLAN Professional Language Advance Network

Japan Online School

 

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2. Christmas Drinks

Thank you to Helen Braithwaite, Steve Burson, Stephen Carter

 

Bar Ylang Ylang in Fushimi

 

There is finally a SMOKE-FREE wine and cocktail bar in Nagoya, so for that quiet Christmas drink minus the cigarette smoke blown in your face, try Bar Ylang Ylang in Fushimi. It is a new bar and will be featured in various popular magazines’ December issue, so it is perhaps best to go quickly before the crowds set in, or wait until the popularity dies down. Targeting women in their 20s, 30s and 40s, the name of the bar comes from the relaxing fragrance used throughout the bar to make patrons relaxed as they enjoy the atmosphere and specially selected wine or cocktails. Non-alcoholic cocktails are also on the menu. Prices are reasonable – drinks start from 700 yen and there is no service or table charge. If you want something to eat, there are selections of pasta, pizza, salad, finger food, and dessert. The bar is open from about 5pm to about 3am.

 

http://www.bar-ylangylang.com/  (in Japanese)

Directions: From Fushimi station exit 10, walk west for 5 min.  Bar Ylang Ylang is on your right hand side (right by Horikawa river). There is a restaurant and bar called Asian Bar on the first floor.  The bar is in the same building on the second floor.  

You can see some pictures of the bar from below links (sorry contents are in Japanese).

http://hirokato.seesaa.net/article/109156779.html

http://sakae.keizai.biz/headline/871/

 

Wolfgang Puck in Sakae

 

Wolfgang Puck, the official chef of the Annual Academy Awards, has recently expanded its Japan operations to Nagoya. On the 10th floor of the Aichi Arts Center building, the access to this restaurant doesn't do it much justice. However, it has a wonderful atmosphere, and my recommendation is not to sit in the first floor area, but to go up to the bar on the 2nd floor of the restaurant. They will generally serve you meals in this area too (if you ask nicely) and the views at night of Nagoya neon are terrific.

 

From the website, this is an accurate introduction to the restaurant; Wolfgang Puck Cafe is one of the best casual dinings in Nagoya which offers authentic California cuisine. With something to please everyone, the cafe menu showcases dishes inspired by the cuisine of some of Wolfgang's classics in addition to many contemporary dishes and seasonal specials. Please try a variety of fresh-made soups, sandwiches, salads, and the signature Wolfgang Puck pizza, all prepared with the best and freshest ingredients.

 

1-13-2 Higashisakura Higashi-ku Nagoya City Aichi 461-8525 Japan


TEL : 052-957-5755


Now open daily from 11:00 to 22:00

Everyday with the exception of days that the Aichi Arts Center is closed.

Map to restaurant is here but map on Arts Center website gives more detailed access route.

 

Desperados in Shinsakae

 

For good Mexican food, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere look no further than Desperados. With a real hole-in-the-wall feel, it’s good for those who are beyond the Gaijin Bar Scene and want a bit of peace and quiet. 

 

Desperados

Fujimatsu Building 2 FL
1-8-11 Shinsakae, Naka-Ku, Nagoya (map)

Tel: 052 264 0663

 

Groggy in Osu Kannon

 

If you’re looking for a REAL hole-in-the-wall, then find one by coming out of OsuKannon Station, walking straight toward the Sports Center at the Nishi OsuKannon lights, turning left and finding yourself at the tiny English-style pub, Groggy. Right next to Nanatsudera (Temple), you can see it marked on this (sorry, Japanese) map.  Be careful, though – don’t go out of your way to drop in there with a group as this shop would seat 20 at a maximum!

 

Address: 2-28-31 Osu Naka-ku Nagoya  Ph: 052-201-4155

 

Peat near Nagoya Station

 

Peat Irish Tavern just five minutes walk from Nagoya Station is sometimes hard to get into without a reservation. Good food and great atmosphere, as well as a convenient location make this a popular place. Print out this map and coupon before you go and enter before 9pm to get 10% off, or a free Guinness (conditions apply!). 

 

Address: 3-15-1 Meieki Nakamura-ku Nagoya  Ph: 052-589-3767

 

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3. Bikram Yoga

Thank you to Elizabeth Sato for this submission

 

Are you looking for a new workout program and maybe a new way to fight the holiday pounds?  Why don't you give Bikram Yoga a try? Bikram Yoga is a style of hot yoga which is practiced in 40.5C heat with humidity of 40%. (Sort of like Nagoya in the summer!)  Classes are 90 minutes long with a series of 26 postures practiced.  Enthusiasts say it increases energy, relieves stress, helps weight loss, promotes cleansing of the body and release of toxins, improves flexibility and balance and just plain feels good.  I agree! The sweat feels great.

 

There is a Bikram studio in Sakae near the Loft that opened about 2 years ago. They have a variety of membership options and they are always offering promotions.  See here for details: www.bikramyoga-japan.com/shop/sakae/index.html

 

Currently the classes are only in Japanese.... However there is a Certified Bikram teacher who can offer the class in English. Masako Takamiya recently moved to Nagoya with her husband who works for   Hilton.  Masako is eager to get some classes started in English.  If you are interested please contact Masako at mtakamiya@hotmail.com.

 

To read more about Bikram Yoga in general check out: http://www.abc-of-yoga.com/styles-of-yoga/bikram-yoga.asp

 

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4. ANZCCJ Chubu Chapter Christmas Party

 

THE AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE IN JAPAN (CHUBU CHAPTER) WOULD LIKE TO INVITE YOU TO THEIR 2008 CHRISTMAS PARTY!

 

Date: Friday 5th December 7pm - 9pm (Doors open 6:30pm)

Venue: Egeresuya, Fushimi

Members: 5000 yen  Guests: 6000 yen

 

Christmas for the ANZCCJ Chubu Chapter is a tradition we are proud to once again uphold. Your friends and business colleagues will enjoy a standing buffet including any number of Aussie/Kiwi Christmas delicacies, drinks (wine / beer / cocktails, etc.) and all the traditional attractions the season has to offer.

 

Don't be a grinch! Fill your wallet like a Christmas stocking and take part in the festivities!

If only it were warmer, it'd be just like Christmas at home!

 

Reservations can now be made online at www.anzccj.jp/events.php

Reservations will also be accepted by email to events@anzccj.jp

Door payments accepted!

Please see the back for payment details

 

Registration and Payment

 

Please Register: Name / Company / Tel / Email / Numbers Attending (members or guests)

 

RSVPs Close: COB Tuesday 2nd December

 

‘No shows’ and cancellations after this date will be invoiced

 

Please remit payments by COB Tuesday 2nd December to the following account:

 

Shinsei Bank

Head Office (400)

Account Number: 6129675

Account Name: ANZCCJ CHUBU

Account Typ: Ordinary 

 

Door payments also accepted.

 

Directions

 

EGERESUYA

Fujita Bldg. B1F, 1-5-8 Sakae

Naka-ku, Nagoya

Tel: 052-221-1738

Please see map here

http://kokomail.mapfan.com/receivew.cgi?MAP=E136.54.0.6N35.9.53.0&ZM=11&CI=R

 

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5. Go North!

 

When I first came to Japan it was to the northern region of Tohoku. I arrived in autumn, and my breath was immediately taken away by the sights and scents of the rice paddies in the unsullied countryside, quite different to the countryside I see now around Aichi Prefecture. An introduction to a tiny little town in Iwate Prefecture took me right into the heart of that Tohoku countryside, and in the following months I busily set up home in Sendai to be within easy reach of gorges, forests, temples and what I would call “The Real Japan”. 

 

What I loved about my life in those days, and what I loved about Japan, was the almost constant cropping up of the unexpected. Who knew, for example, that when I traveled to the tiny town of Ichinoseki I would end up at one of the best Jazz spots in Japan? Basie is not just famous in Japan – the signatures of jazz legends line the walls (The Count himself has been there twice), and the place has had media attention also in English. Just up the road from Basie is a tiny little doll shop that has junk out the back – part of that junk is now an antique chest I had shipped back to Australia. Ichinoseki is also where I had my first natto omelette in a brave attempt to open myself to new tastes (of which natto is now an acquired one!)

 

Where I lived in Sendai, was a winter wonderland over Christmas time. On the years that the white Christmas became a reality I would walk down Jozenji Street (home of the Jozenji Street Jazz Festival) looking at the glorious twinkling lights through the falling snow.

 

When the weather got warmer there was an opportunity to visit Mt Zao and it’s freakishly colour-changing crater lake, and traveling in the opposite direction, cruising through the little islands of Matsushima, one of the three big sights in Japan.  Sendai was from this point of view a perfect home base – equal distances to mountains, fields, famous little jazz bars, and the sea.

 

A friend sent me the newsletter of Michi Travel, a travel company based in Tokyo which specializes in tours for foreign clientele, and this month is predictably loaded up with the wintry north. The sight of the snow and pictures of the exclusive onsen at Matsushima got me dreaming. What better way to spend a white Christmas this year?

 

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6. Dolphin Cleaning Corporation

Thank you to Geri White for information contained within this submission

 

Dolphin Cleaning Corporation is an effective, friendly owner operated business. They do everything the larger, commercial cleaning business do but at more reasonable prices. They have several packages available including, carpet cleaning, floor polishing, window cleaning and much much more.  They are perfect when you vacate a house or before moving in - they can do a thorough job.  They even leave the personal touch - helium dolphin balloons if you have little ones.

 

Dolphin Coporation 0561-74-5468

email: dolphin@etude.ocn.ne.jp

Owner/Operator: Naito-san.

 

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7. Print Magazines in Japan

 

Years ago, to see a block of English print in Japan it was necessary to subscribe to the Japan Times. Now the reality is so different – there are magazines that cater to all tastes.  Here are a few of my favourites, as well as some links to websites where you can get subscriptions to magazines from Japan or from home.

 

J@pan Inc.

 

Born out of the gilded belly of Japan’s IT bubble, J@pan Inc has its roots in technology but has now blossomed into a broader business magazine. J@pan Inc aims to cover issues, trends and controversies across all industries in Japan with a particular focus on foreigners already established here, or those hoping to break into the market.

 

With business as the soul of the magazine, Japan Inc features an independently researched feature on a particular industry, high quality pieces tracing the commercial journeys of individual entrepreneurs or companies plus coverage of a range of other topics pertinent to those with interests in Japan from politics to real estate, to education.

 

Avenues Magazine

 

Avenues Magazine has been the leading English language magazine for the Chubu (central Japan) since 1985. The focus of the magazine is on providing useful information for the English speaking population of the region.

 

Avenues is distributed throughout Aichi, Gifu, Mie, Fukui, Shiga, Shizuoka and Wakayama prefectures, and subscribers are found in over 30 countries worldwide. The print magazine is published quarterly.

 

Eye-Ai

 

Established twenty-two years ago, the only English-language entertainment and information magazine that focuses entirely on Japanese entertainment and culture. Popular artists, trendy dramas, what's new and exciting on TV and at the theater...Eye-Ai brings you the latest on what is happening in the world of Japanese entertainment.

 

Metropolis

 

Metropolis is the only magazine that has its distribution of 30,000 copies independently verified by Japan's Audit Bureau of Circulations. The magazine is delivered to 67,500 readers. There are a further 30,000 regular internet readers. From the website you can subscribe and also access other informational services in Japan.

 

Tokyo Families

Kyoto Journal

Kansai Time Out

Subscribe to Magazines from the UK, Australia or New Zealand

Subscribe to US Magazines

 

 

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8. Things to Do With Kids This Winter

 

The cold weather does not have to ruin your fun this winter season.  Rug up and get out, or stay inside and enjoy one of Nagoya’s many indoor activities for children!

 

Nagoya Aquarium

 

While entry is a little expensive (2000 yen for adults) this aquarium promises a great day out.  As well as all the normal things you would see in an aquarium, there is a cool dolphin show, which you can watch from under the water or above it.  In the area around the aquarium there is a little amusement park with a ferris wheel, and also a small shopping centre with places to eat. The whole area is lit up like a Christmas tree in December and opens until 9pm, so a night visit would be very pretty!

 

To get to Nagoya Aquarium get the Meijo subway line to Nagoyako Station (the terminus of that line). Download the PDF English pamphlet for further information.

 

Aichi Children’s Center in Morikoro Park in Nagakute is great for a rainy day with kids. If the tunnels and mazes don’t keep them happy, there is a robot theatre, collaboration corner, a number of experiential play areas, a book room and a room up the top where you can get a good view over Nagoya.  Open every day except Monday from 9am to 5pm, adults are charged 300 yen for entry while kids go in free!

 

To get there, drive to Morikoro Park in Nagakute (out along the green road) and after you park in the main parking area, walk toward the ferris wheel. Aichi Children’s Center is on your right as you walk. By train, take the Linimo to either Koen Nishi or Aichikyuuhaku Kinen Koen Station. The building is dome shaped and just North East of the ferris wheel.

 

Orchid Gardens (Ran no Yakata) is having their Christmas Illumination from November through to Christmas Day.  Gardens are decorated with more than 1.2 million LED bulbs, from 4pm to 9pm in December.  The display includes a five meter tall tree constructed by 400 White Orchid plants.  Other features are Santa's House, Flying Santa & Rainbow Tree in the pond, as well as a Christmas Forest, all right in the middle of Nagoya!  The admission fee of 700 yen has been lowered to 500 yen for the 20th year anniversary.

 

To celebrate Christmas there is live music at Ran no Yakata on the 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th. Concert times are 4:30 pm and 6pm on the 20th and 25th, all other days are 4:30 pm, 6pm, and 7:30pm.

 

Opening hours: from 10am to 8pm (until November 30)

                         from 10am to 9pm (December 1st to 25th, special extended hours)

Closed Wednesdays

Admission fee: Usually 700 yen for Adults (free for children under junior high school age)

Address & Access: 4-1, 4-chome, Naka-ku, Nagoya.  Tel: (052) 243-0511

Nearest station: from exit #4, Yabacho (Meijo Line) takes 3 minutes on foot.

Walking south along Otsu-Dori keeping Parco on your left, you'll see Ran no Yakata across Wakamiya-Odori also on your left.

Driving Map

 

Heavens Sonohara - (ski only - no snowboarding) is the closest ski area to Nagoya. About 1 hour on the Chuo Expressway (to Exit 26). Very close to the expressway and unless there has been a heavy recent snowfall no winter tyres or chains needed. Being close this area is very popular with families and gets very crowded - especially on Sundays. On some Sundays children are free. Kitty-chan is the symbol of this area and there is a seperate play area for families with kids who can't ski yet. Parking is free and you catch a gondola up to the ski area.

 

Northstar Lodge at Norikura Kogen (http://www.ridenorthstar.com/about/) This is a totally bilingual lodge at the base of Mt Norikura. There you can just stay and hang out, jump on the big trampoline in the foyer, climb the climbing wall, eat their fabulous meals and play board games in the warm and cosy living room. Or you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoe walking or back country skiing. You can go yourself of make use of their excellent bilingual guides and outdoor program. They cater for all kinds of groups and have gear for everyone from elementary school age. 

 

The best resource for skiing/ snowboarding in English in Japan is http://www.snowjapan.com/e/index.php. This lists all areas in Japan, has maps, resort information as some accomodation information, is updated daily for snow conditions and has links to the homepages for the ski areas. Another resource you might find handy is http://www.welovesnow.com/eng/index.php.

 

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 9. Christmas Meet and Greet

Thank you to Joey Tan for this submission

 

Are you new to town?  Do you want to get out and meet new people?  Or do you just want a nice lunch in a quiet, relaxing atmosphere where you can chat with new friends and old friends?  The Meet & Greet lunch is held on the second Tuesday of the month at Shooters Sports Bar and Grill in Fushimi. 

 

* 2500 yen for Christmas lunch (includes donation of 2000 yen!)

* Santa will be there, so bring a wrapped present with your child’s name on it to add to Santa’s sack!

* The same great venue, Shooters, with a special Christmas menu

* Silent Auction

* Bake Sale (bring your baked goodies to sell!)

* Proceeds go to Washinkan Children’s Home in Nagoya - so you're helping others, while giving yourself a big dose of Christmas spirit!

 

 Date:  Tuesday, 9th of December

 Time: 11:00 am - 2:00pm 

 Place: http://www.shooters-nagoya.com/

 

Please RSVP by Friday the 5th of December.  RSVP to Joey Tan by e-mail to joeywltan@gmail.com.

 

Shooters has a relaxed atmosphere and is closed during the day except for our event, so we have the run of the place.  This means that it is a VERY easy event for mothers with babies or small children.  It also means, however, that I must ask for an RSVP so that Shooters can cater for the correct number of people.

 

 

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  10. Finding the Balance

Sue Conolly

 

I have been sitting in the school library all day, just me and the X-Pat Files. Me and the X-Pat Files have had our ups and downs over the years – some months I am able to come up with lists and lists and lists of fantastically cool and useful information, other months I am grinding the grindstone. This has been one of those months.

 

With me at the same library desk is my friend who is working on her Masters. I am working on MY Masters too, or I would be if I wasn’t wrestling with the X-Pat Files octopus today. On Monday is my deadline for a Masters project proposal. I think my friend has one of those scary deadlines too. The table is silent but for the tapping of two keyboards, and the occasional very deep sigh. It’s deadline central, here at this table.

 

Over a very quick bite to eat at lunch I tried to tell my friend to “aim for mediocrity” (or as my friend put it, “Reach for the Gutter!”), not sweat the little stuff and just to do what needs doing for that assignment to get finished. Then after lunch I returned to the never-ending perfectionism that is the X-Pat Files. I always think it’s going to be fast, but end up spending hours on some of the articles.  I have been here all day, really.  My friend here at the table is 1300 words over in her strive for perfectionism. Will we never learn that good enough is good enough?

 

One of the things about being a good student is realizing how much you don’t know.

 

That’s what my friend just told me. Then I told her I was going to put that in the X-Pat Files, then we shared a laugh about how desperate we are. Then both of us went back to our respective keyboards where we are still fretting and sighing about what ELSE we could do, or what we’re not doing.

 

Right across the other side of the library is another friend of mine. She’s NOT doing her Masters but she seems to be working on something. It might be her column, the Kanji Clinic, a column which has taken her to the heights of Japan Times publication.

 

And anyway - who’s to say that being a perfectionist is such a bad thing? I mean, here we are, three very productive ladies. We’re sighing, we’re tapping our keyboards and we’re coming up with what we can. We’re still learning, and that irritation under our collective skins that irks us, asks us, demands of us to pull our socks up and get DOWN to it… how can that be a bad thing?

 

I am thinking too about my friend across the world in New York. A mother of two, she is also a life coach who runs a website and an online support group for mothers who feel that perfectionist itch. A self-confessed wanna-be perfectionist herself, she wrote in her newsletter that once you become a parent, there’s no way to hold on to perfectionism. How true. Once the kids are born, even the illusion of perfectionism goes out the window. This is from my friend’s recent newsletter:

 

It's about doing the best we can with what we have, and measuring success by the peace in our hearts and the growth in our ability to enjoy absolutely everything. 

 

My friend across the library LOVES Kanji. She loves writing about it, and she loves teaching people about it. My friend across the table LOVES teaching, and so while she might not be so very enamoured to the Masters project she’s doing right now, she is doing it in voluntary improvement of herself. And when it all comes down to it, I have to admit, I do love the X-Pat Files. I love writing it and I love people reading it. I love people sending me information and I like doing the research to fill out that information into something that becomes useful in the community. Working with what you love – what could be more perfect than that?

 

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That’s it for this edition of the newsletter. We hope you found it informative - please let us know what you would like to see in future editions, and we will attempt to address your issues.

 

 If you need to find some information from a previous edition, please try the search function on http://www.xpat-files.com.  Carrying out a text search with key words will take you directly to previous editions of the newsletter in which information appeared.

 

A disclaimer - While we do try to check submissions when they come to me, we do not take responsibility for the accuracy of any donated information.  Nor do we take responsibility if your experience of places and services you find through this newsletter are not as rewarding as they were for the person who originally sent in the information. Obviously everyone`s experience is different.

 

If you would like to subscribe or unsubscribe to this newsletter, please do so online at http://www.xpat-files.com.

 

If* you have some information you feel might be of benefit to the Expat community, please send as much information as you can to info@xpat-files.com.

 

The newsletter will be as good as the contributions made to it, so please send in ideas and materials!