Big and Small Victories

Well, we've been somewhat cooped up recently by a snow storm that blew through our area, but despite the limiting weather we've accomplished some important things in the short two and a half weeks that we've been here. Moving to a new country is in some ways "starting from scratch" and it's easy to feel behind and disorganized, so we've discovered that remembering the things we have accomplished is an important part of realizing that things really are okay :-). On that note...drumroll please! We...

Got cell phones.

Survived a snow storm (and John survived Jennifer's complaining about the cold), and even enjoyed the fun and beauty left behind .

John started work.

Started car shopping.

Signed up for a snowboarding trip to Nagano.

Got confirmation that Jennifer's boots are indeed weather proof.

John successfully dug the car we were test driving out of the snow (yes, we're allowed to joke about this now).

Jennifer purchased an extremely warm down jacket for 85% off MSRP (thank you military pricing and thank you everyone who does not like pink) which makes going outside at least a bit more appealing.

Jennifer started yoga and pilates classes (sorry folks, no photo).

Found a house. Move in date set for Friday!

Finished our 148 wedding thank you notes!

Bought our plane tickets home for two weddings and a Baptism this spring.


Whew! That's all for now, but expect more of these public pep-talks soon :-).