Smart Apartment Features

My apartment has a bit of an outdated look, but there are some, decidedly modern, features that I find genius and would love to have in my condo back home.

Yes, the toilet is navy blue, but the tank is filled using the water leftover when you wash your hands.
When I enter my front door, the entry light automatically turns on. This light also turns off approximately 30 seconds after I have stopped moving, all thanks to a little motion sensor. I cant even express how great it is to come in the front door, at night, with hands full and not need to fumble around for a light switch.

First Night

My first night living in Japan, as opposed to just visiting, was last night. My flight arrived in the evening, after the time allowed for moving into my apartment, so I stayed at a Hotel near Nagoya station. Jet lagged I found myself looking out the window in the middle of the night.

Coach vs Busisness

For my apartment finding 'pre-trip' I flew economy class. For my assignment flight I was given a Business class ticket. What an upgrade! Guess which meal is from which flight?

...and the nice salad was just the first course.

California

Over the 19 days that I was back in MI, I took a short trip to CA.This peacock hung around at the house where I was staying and spent almost every morning displaying his feathers.Blown glass exhibitSan Francisco Cost lineBotanical Garden

Homeward bound for 19 days

It's Thursday morning here in Japan and I'm just getting ready to leave for the airpot after 10 days of apartment hunting, car shopping and introductions. A funny thing about going from Japan to Michigan is that I will gain about 1 hour during the flight, arriving in MI before noon on Thursday, I've become a time traveler.

It is currently rainy season here in Japan so in the 10 days that I have been here I have yet to see blue sky. Some days it has been sunny, but never to the point that it was possible to see the sky. During the time I spent apartment hunting it rained almost the whole day and I'd forgotten to pack an umbrella, fortunately the Sugiura-san from the Apartment finding consultant company was kind enough to share her umbrella with me.

I'm looking forward to seeing the Rising Sun when I return for my assignment in just 19 days.