 Hey
Friends
I decided to try and complete a couple of projects that I wanted to
do for years. The first is to sort through and keep or delete all of the old information from my
computer files. The second is to go through old pictures (the kind on film), and
match them up with dates from information contained in these files. I was going
to delete a lot of these files, such as emails, receipts, taxes, and checking account
information, but then I realized this information would be invaluable for dating
the pictures. In addition, my kids said they are really interested in my stories
and other stuff from back in the day. Anyway, it was simply easier to put all of
this information in one place, this blog, and then sort it all out after. The
information is pretty boring for those of you who
found this page....please read or ignore at your discretion. |
October 6, 2003 -
File Entry
- Riechan email. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
Thank you. I am very happy because I have nice friend who always stand by me!
Because of this happening, I realized one theory that weired person has same
kinds of friends, (I am talking about my former employer) and I don't want to be
one of them or I don't want to involve in the circle. I had to back off from
that situation. It meant be, I think. Rie
October 8, 2003 -
File Entry
- Miscellaneous emails. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
****
Hi. I wanted to let you know that I can only use the Internet once a week. I had
planned to get Internet access at my home in Japan, but the school that I work
for said that they would install it soon. Anyway, for now the reply that I send
you might be kinda slow.
These days have been really pleasant. I go hiking almost every day at the same
mountain as last year. It got kinda cool recently which is really good for
hiking. Recently, I have made many new friends and I have been in contact with
my friends from last year. I met one of my friends from last year. Her name is
Akiko. We had sent email to each other throughout the year and recently we met
and decided that we should be together as a couple. Her home is really close and
we try to see each other as often as possible.
My Japanese continues to improve. Everyday my friends talk to me in Japanese. My
writing ability is pretty much the same but now my speaking has really improved.
I have to wait a few more weeks for my working visa and then I can begin working
full-time. The school that I work for is pretty much allowing me to design my
own classes. Next month I am planning to teach an idiom class and a
pronunciation class. It should be a lot of fun. Anyway, send email when you have
the time. Until then.
Howie
The person wrote: what the fuck?? who the hell r u
Then I wrote: Your name was listed in the pen pal site. I suggest you take
English language lessons to improve your vocabulary. The words you are using are
disgusting and rude. There is no way that I would want to be friends with
someone who uses such awful language.
あなたの名前はpen palサイトにあります。英語の勉強をしてください。あなたの英語のことばはとてもきたなくてしつれいです。友達になりたくないです。
Dear Howie Hayman
Thank you for the email.
I've just wanted to sent an e-mail to confirm the
interview.
Please call me, when you arrive in Tokushima.
I am looking forward to meeting you.
Thanks again.
Sincerely
Seisuke Hiraoka
こんにちは。私の日本語能力では、ちょっと説明するのに難しいので、
このメールは私の友達に翻訳してもらっています。
このメールを日本でインターネットサイトで知り合った私の新しい友達に送ります。
私はとても沢山のメールを受け取り、その殆どは日本語で書かれていました。でも、
返事をするのが遅くなってしまってすみません。
皆私に関する質問が沢山あるみたいなので、今回は皆一緒のメールを送り、皆の質問の
答えを一気にお知らせしたいと思います。中にはもう私の事をしっている人もいるとは
思うのですが、それはお許し下さい。そして、もし、このメールがつまらないものならば
すみません。
私の名前はハウイといいます。独身でアメリカから来ました。私はアメリカ人とカナダ人の
ハーフで、ニューヨークで生まれ育ち、その後はカリフォルニアに引越しました。
私はサンディエゴ州立大学で、ビジネスの学位を取り、サンディエゴ州立大学のアメリカン
ランゲージインスティテュートでTEFL（第二外国語としての英語を教える）の修了書を取り、
グロスモントカレッジで日本語の学位を取りました。
今はTESOLという国際教師団体のメンバーにも加入しています。
カリフォルニアでは４つの会社（不動産査定会社を含む）を経営していました。
今、日本の奈良県の王寺町という小さな町の日米英語学院という所で、マーケティング
ディレクター兼英語教師として働いています。
しかし、今も、日本各地から仕事のオファーが来ています。その中の一つに徳島県からの
仕事の依頼もあるので、もしかしたら、来年に徳島に引越しするかもしれません。
今回で、３度目の来日となります。私は４年前に富山を訪れ、その後からずっと日本に
移住したいと考えていました。去年は奈良の私の友達のリエちゃんの家に３ヶ月間
バケーションで滞在していました。
現在も去年と同じリエちゃんの家に滞在しています。彼女はカリフォルニアにある私の家に
滞在しています。その奈良の家は畠田という奈良県王寺町の小さな町です。そして、その家の
一階はお好み焼き屋になっています。店の名前は沙羅といって、JR畠田駅から見えるくらいの
近さです。とても美味しいお好み焼きなので、お店に来て私と一緒に夕食を食べましょう。
店は木曜日定休で夕方５時から１２時迄の営業です。
知っている方も多いと思いますが、私は自分でデザインした英語のランゲージサイトが
あります。これは４００ページに及ぶサイトで、英語を勉強している人達の為に
作ったものなのです。しかし、残念ながら、何らかの理由で日本語対応のコンピューターや
ブラウザーによっては、私のサイトが見れない場合もあるようです。私が働いている
英語学校のコンピューターでも、私のサイトが見れません。
だからもし、あなたのコンピューターで見れなければ、友人のコンピューター等でも
試してみてください。是非、私のサイトを見て欲しいです。
今私はインターネットアクセスを持っていず、コンピューターを使うときは友人のコンピューターを借りています。だから、私の写真をコンピューターで送る事が出来ません。
でも、私のサイトには、私の写真も載せていますので、そちらの方で見てください。
私はアウトドアが好きです。ハイキングやマウンテンバイクも好きです。
喫茶店に行ってコーヒーを飲むのも好きですし、勉強する事も好きです。でも、やっぱり
一番好きなのは、気の合った友人とお喋りする事だと思います。
日本人の友人と話すことによって、日本語の勉強も出来ました。私は日本人の友人が
カリフォルニアにも沢山いましたし、奈良にも沢山います。今もよく皆と話をしています。
もし、時間があったら、会いに来て下さい。きっとお互い得る事も沢山あると思います。
私の携帯番号はですので、いつでも電話してくれて結構です。
もし、あなたが英語でメールを送って下されば、返事は早く送る事が出来ます。
もし、日本語のメールなら、少し遅くなると思います。というのも、日本語はやはり読むのに
少し時間がかかるからです。
このメールで、きっと全ての質問に答えれたと思います。
では、メールや電話を楽しみにまっています。それでは、その時まで。
ハウイ
October 15, 2003 -
File Entry
- Riechan and friends emails. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
Dear Riechan he
Konnichi wa. I want to try to tell you many things in this email. I plan to
write kind of a daily entry to you because usually I forget things after a few
days. I want you to call me between the following times. Call me on Thursday
which would be Friday in Japan. Call me on Thursday between 8:00 pm and 10:00
pm, California time. This is California time not Japan. I want to talk to you
first and then I need to talk to Dad about a few things. Please tell him not to
go to sleep until I talk to him first. Anyway, if you cannot call during that
time, send email to my keitai and let me know as soon as possible. Now some new
information.
I already told you about Akiko. I have to say that things are going way better
than I expected. Recently she gave me a copy of the printout of her work
schedule. We meet almost everyday she does not have to work. We have talked
about many things and we have many things in common. She is very Japanese but in
many ways very different. She is very affectionate and gives me a lot of
attention which you know I like. She seems to worry a lot and is the type that
straightens out my sweatshirt if it is not on properly. You probably can
understand the meaning of that. We have talked about marriage a lot and I have a
feeling we are going to get married. This is really a surprise for me and
probably for you. She is from Oji and except for a short time in Sango, she has
always been in Oji with her family. She is working as a lounge attendant at the
airport. She does not smoke, she only drinks a small amount of alcohol and she
does not like clubs at all. Clothes and material things are not important to her
and she likes many of the same things that I like. The time we spend together is
really really pleasant. Anyway, depending on visa stuff, it is possible that we
could go to the US together next year. You do not have to worry about moving
because Akiko is probably going to be okay with the idea of you staying at the
house, at least until we get married. Anyway, more about that when you call on
Thursday.
I have not been working at all. The owner of the Nichibei language school
continues to offer many things but then he changes his mind. It is very
difficult to trust him and he seems to want to mess around with girls even
though he has a wife. This is not really a big surprise.
Anyway, I am waiting for the visa to arrive and then I get make some requests
for an apartment and Internet access. This is my plan. I have an interview in
Tokushima on the 30th of this month. If I get the job then I would move to
Tokushima but the job does not begin until 4/2004. I would try to get my own
students in this area and then get an apartment until then. If there is a
problem with the visa, then I am going to leave Japan and go to a neighbor
country and then reenter Japan again. After the next three months, I would
return to the US.
Anyway, today I am going to get my teeth cleaned. Kind of not looking forward to
it but it is going to be nice to have clean teeth again.
I have been hiking a lot these days. Every day is kind of cool and hiking is
very pleasant. Anyway, nothing else to say for now. Talk to you on Thursday.
Hi again. Today is Wednesday and I have lots to tell you. I went to have my
teeth cleaned. They only cleaned the lower teeth and the upper teeth are going
to be cleaned on Friday. It was only like $22.00 but probably gonna be more
expensive next time. It was kind of fun and the girl who cleaned my teeth was
really cute. She could not speak English so she had to show pictures and use
gestures to explain things.
Oh yeah, the other day was the first time to meet part of the Iwamoto family. I
met her sister Maiko. It went really good but it was pretty obvious that I was
being looked at very closely. I plan to meet the parents soon.
Anyway, last night Akiko came to your house again. It was really pleasant. Your
family, the neighbors and the customers all seem to be really happy that we are
together. While Akiko was there, I received a call from a girl that I met at the
Japanese language school last year. She is part Asian and something else but not
Japanese. Anyway, she is an English language teacher. She called to tell me
about a Canadian teacher who decided to quit and that there was an opening at a
school called Kansai Juku. The school is located in Owada which is pretty close
to your house. I have an interview on Monday. If everything goes okay then I
plan to take that job. It is only 4 days per week but the school can sponsor my
visa.
Anyway, these days it seems like Akiko wants to go to the US more and more.
Probably because of all the good things that I keep telling her. Gonna have to
wait and see what is gonna happen in the next few months. Hopefully you are
doing okay. Talk to you when you call on Thursday. Matane.
Love
Howie yori
Nayu
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Anyway, I really cannot tell you much
about the holiday because I do not celebrate it. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Hi.
My friend is translating this email because my Japanese is not good enough for
this explanation.
I am sending this to my new friends that I met on the Internet since I have been
in Japan.
I received a lot of email, and most of it is in Japanese.
I am sorry that this reply is very slow.
Everyone has asked many questions and it seemed easier to send the same email to
everyone.
Some of you already know the answers to these questions.
I want to say sorry if this email is kind of boring.
My name is Howie.
I am a single male from the United States of America.
I am half American and half Canadian.
I was born in New York but lived in California.
I have a B.S. degree in business from San Diego State University.
I have a TEFL (teaching English as a foreign language) certificate from the
American Language Institute of San Diego State University.
I have an A.A. degree and a certificate in Japanese studies from Grossmont
college.
I am a member of TESOL which is an international teachers organization.
I have owned four companies in California including a successful real estate
appraisal business.
I am now working at Nichibei English language school in Oji which is a small
town in Nara prefecture.
I am working as a full-time marketing director and a part-time English teacher.
I have had many job offers throughout Japan.
There is the possibility that I might move to Tokushima next year because there
is a good job there.
I have been to Japan three times including this time.
I went to Toyama about four years ago and wanted to stay in Japan from that
time.
Last year I stayed at my friend Riechans house in Nara for three months on
vacation.
I am now staying at the same house again this year.
Riechan is staying at my house in California.
The house is located in Hatakeda which is a small town located in Oji which is
located in Nara prefecture.
My friends house is also an Okonomiyaki restaurant.
The name of the restaurant is Sara and it is located directly across from the
Hatakeda train station.
You can see the restaurant from the train station.
The food is very good so please come and have dinner with me at the restaurant.
The restaurant is open every day except Thursday and the hours are from 5:00 pm
until about 12:00 pm.
Many of you already know that I have an English language Internet site.
http://internationaleflcafe.com/
The site is about 400 pages.
You can see my picture if you go to the home page and click on the Cafe button.
The page is kind of slow so please wait.
Some of you have had trouble looking at the site.
I have found that some of the browsers used by Japanese computers are not able
to view the site.
The computer at the language school that I am working for is also unable to view
the site.
I suggest you try to use a friends computer if you are having a problem.
I do not have internet access at my home now and have to use a friends computer,
therefore, I have not been able to send my picture which is why I suggested
looking at the site.
I like outdoor activities like hiking and bike riding, going to coffee shops,
studying, and I especially like talking with friends.
I learn a lot by listening to my friends.
I have many Japanese friends in California and in Nara.
We often get together and talk.
Please visit me and my friends in Nara if you have the time.
I think we can learn many things from each other.
You can call me anytime on my cell phone at 09042871709.
If you send email in English, I can get back to you sooner.
If you send email in Japanese the reply might take somewhat longer because it
takes me awhile to read Japanese.
This should answer most of your questions.
Anyway, I am looking forward to your email. Until then.
Howie
Machi
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Please tell me when you want to come
to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. This next part of the email is translated from
English.
Miyu
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Please tell me when you want to come
to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. This next part of the email is translated from
English.
Asuka
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Please tell me when you want to come
to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. Hatakeda is in Nara and is the next train
station from Oji. This next part of the email is translated from English.
Takako
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I am staying in Hatakeda which is in
Nara and the next train station from Oji. I like Japanese food very much. The
house that I am staying at is an okonomiyaki restaurant. Please tell me when you
want to come to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Yuka
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I am staying in Hatakeda which is in
Nara and the next train station from Oji. I like Japanese food very much. The
house that I am staying at is an okonomiyaki restaurant. Please tell me when you
want to come to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Mayumi
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Many of my Japanese friends in
America are having a problem making American friends. If you want to make
friends you have to make a commitment. Many times I wanted to talk to you but
you were usually too busy. If you say no to Americans many times they give up to
be friends with you especially if you are from another country. I have made a
lot of friends in Japan recently and my Japanese speaking has improved a lot.
Anyway, try to hang in there. Send email when you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Kazu
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I appreciate the information about
Tokushima. Actually I am interested in teaching there but not to open a
business. It looks like I am going to stay in Hatakeda for awhile though.
Anyway, please send email when you have the time. Until then.
まき
こんにちは。メールと電話ありがとう。毎週いかいだけInternetを使うことができるので返事ちょっとおそいです。
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Sachiyo
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Kyoko
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. My favorite Japanese food is
okonomiyaki. Please look at my English language Internet site to look at my
picture. Please send me your picture when you have the time. This next part of
the email is translated from English.
Reiko
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Saeko
Hi. Please let me know when you are coming. Until then.
Howie
ゆみ
こんにちは。私はゆみのメールアドレスがちょっとちがう。畠田来てくださいね。もし時間があったらメールを送ってください。またね。
ハウイ
Toni
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I am staying in Hatakeda which is in
Nara and the next train station from Oji. I like Japanese food very much. The
house that I am staying at is an okonomiyaki restaurant. Please tell me when you
want to come to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. I am waiting for my working visa
and now I have a lot of free time. I am planning to stay in Japan for many
years. This next part of the email is translated from English.
Saeko
Hi. Please let me know when you want to come to Hatakeda again. It would be nice
to talk with you again. Until then.
Howie
Rie
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
けいこちゃん
こんにちは。メールありがとう。私たちの会う時間はめちゃ楽しかったです。また会いたいです。もし時間があったらメール送ってくださいね。またね。
ハウイ
Hyowon
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. It seems like your English is pretty
good. Anyway, I am hoping you are okay. Send email when you have the time. Until
then.
Howie
Miyuki
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Try to hang in there with your
internship. You are going to be okay if you try. Send email when you have the
time. Until then.
Howie
Suzuka
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Tell me more about you new job. Maybe
we can go hiking together when you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Mika
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I cannot use MSN until I get Internet
at my home. Anyway, you can call me anytime if you want. I can speak some
Japanese so it would be okay. Until then.
Howie
Chris
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I bought two new computers before
coming to Japan and both of them got that freaking blaster virus. It took me a
few hours to get rid of it. Talk about being pissed off. Anyway, send email when
you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Rumi
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I am staying in Hatakeda which is in
Nara and the next train station from Oji. I like Japanese food very much. The
house that I am staying at is an okonomiyaki restaurant. Please tell me when you
want to come to Hatekeda and eat okonomiyaki. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
あきこ
こんにちは。メールありがとう。もし時間があったら畠田来てくださいね。メール送ってください。またね。
ハウイ
Keiko
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. This next part of the email is
translated from English.
Rob
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. I have to tell you that having the
TEFL certificate certainly has made a difference. I have had job offers from
many schools throughout Japan. I plan to stay in this area though. If you have
the time, I would appreciate any pronunciation instruction material you could
send. I need explanations on pronouncing the different sounds of English. Many
of my students are interested in learning pronunciation. I realize now that this
email sounds like something bookman would write. Next time gonnatrytatuh use
more reductions. Really looking forward to your next email. Until then.
Howie
Dear Chiakichan
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Things are really cool in Japan.
Recently I have had many job offers throughout Japan. I plan to stay in this
area though because of my girlfriend Akiko. I really am surprised because we
have been talking about getting married. It really is nice to be with someone
again. Anyway, hopefully you are doing okay and happy. I think about you a lot.
Send email when you have the time. Until then.
Love
Howie
Kiochan
Hi. I wanted to thank you for inviting me to the Matsuri. These days have been
really busy and I have not had as much time to visit with friends. In addition,
recently I talked with a friend who I met last year. We decided to be together
and now we see each other almost every day. Maybe I am going to bring to the
Japanese class in the next few weeks. Anyway, please try to go to the matsuri on
Sunday. Maybe I am going to attend the barbeque party. Send email and call when
you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Nobumitsusan
Hi. Thank you for the email. I have been very busy these days with job offers
and working on the computer. I plan to come to the school next week but not sure
at this time. Anyway, please send email when you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Makoto
Hi. I wanted to send email sooner but I only have access to the Internet once
every week. I have to wait to get access until I decide which company to work
for. Anyway, I have a girlfriend now. We met last year and this year we decided
to be together. Many things are getting better these days. Hopefully gonna get
an apartment within the next two months. Please visit me if you have the time.
It would be really cool for us to hang out together in Japan. Send email when
you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Yuko
Hi. I wanted to send email to you for awhile. I have been in Japan for more than
one month now. The beginning was kind of difficult because I had to contact many
companies to look for work. I am working for a small school now and I am
considering other job offers I have received. I get to meet my friends pretty
much every day and things are very pleasant. Anyway, hopefully you are doing
okay. Please send email when you have the time. Until then.
Howie
Miochan
Hi. Thanks for sending email. I can only get access to the Internet once every
week. That is why this reply is very slow. Things are really cool in Japan.
Recently I have had many job offers throughout Japan. I plan to stay in this
area though because of my girlfriend Akiko. I really am surprised because we
have been talking about getting married. It really is nice to be with someone
again. Anyway, hopefully you are doing okay. Send email when you have the time.
Until then.
Howie
Dear Akiko
Hi. I wanted to tell you that it is really nice to be with you. I am very happy
that we are together. Talk to you tonight. Until then.
Love Howie
October 19, 2003 -
File Entry
- Riechan email. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
Dear Riechan he
Konnichi wa. This is the beginning of an ongoing email. Kind of difficult to
remember everything so gonna try to write when something is new. Anyway, today
is Monday in Japan and I have an interview at Kansai Juku in Owada. The Canadian
teacher there quit and they need a teacher immediately. I really want to get
this job because it is close to Hatakeda and Oji. I plan to continue to work
part time at the other school. On Sunday, Akiko and I went to an outdoor party
from the free Japanese language school. It was fun. Everyone was surprised that
Akiko and I are going to get married. The usual comments about the age
difference and that we are making the decision very quickly. The comments are
okay for me and have no affect on my decision. Akiko is the same but the
comments from her friends and especially her family have an affect on her
thinking but not on her decision. She said that she becomes kind of weak when we
do not see each other but she continues to want to get married. Actually the
more everyone makes comments, the more she wants to get away and go to the US.
Anyway, I decided it was best for me to write a letter to the family explaining
many things. Akiko really liked the idea. This is the letter to her family.
Please translate this now and send it back to me. Please do a really good job on
this.
The family name is Iwamoto. Begin the letter in a very polite way.
This is the beginning of the letter.
To Iwamoto san
My name is Howie Hayman. I am writing this letter to you so that you can know
more about me. These days Akiko and I have been spending a lot of time together
and I know you are probably worried about many things because we have not met. I
have told Akiko that I want to meet you but she said to wait a little longer. I
decided to write this letter to answer some of your questions so that you do not
have to worry. I can speak some Japanese but my Japanese is not good enough to
explain many things to you. I wrote this letter in English and then sent it to
my friend who has translated the letter into Japanese.
I am from America but I am one half American and one half Canadian. I am from
Buffalo, New York but I spent many years in San Diego, California.
I have a BS degree in business from San Diego State University in California. I
also have a teaching certificate from the American Language Institute at San
Diego State University, which is the number one English language school in
America. I have an AA degree in Japanese and a certificate in Japanese, both
from Grossmont College in California. I am also a member of TESOL which is an
international group for teachers.
After getting my business degree, I worked for one of the largest banks in
California as a real estate appraiser. During this time, I was promoted very
quickly to appraisal officer and I was offered a position as assistant vice
president. The bank was then purchased by one of the largest banks in America.
After spending some time working for that bank, I decided to open my own
company. I spent eight years building my company which became one of the top
real estate appraisal companies in California. During the eight years, I
purchased and sold numerous homes as a personal investment. I also had three
other companies including a marketing company and a private English language
school at my home. This year I work at the American Language Institute as an
English language teacher. I taught an intermediate pronunciation class, speaking
class and a business English class.
In addition to my work as a real estate appraiser and English language teacher,
I wrote and published a 400 page English language Internet site. I have also
written and published a computer program. I am currently writing an English
language pronunciation book.
Every two years I would take a vacation to different countries. About four years
ago, I had the opportunity to visit Toyama Japan. From that time on I became
very interested in Japanese culture. Because most of my friends in California
are Japanese, I was already familiar with Japanese food, language and culture. I
decided to go back to college and take Japanese language and culture classes.
Last year I stayed at my friends house in Hatakeda for three months to practice
speaking Japanese. The trip was very pleasant. During the trip, I met Akiko at
the Oji Library. We exchanged email throughout this year. I returned to
California to complete my Japanese studies.
This year I returned to Japan to find a job as an English language teacher. I
have had many job offers throughout Japan including Chiba, Saitama and
Tokushima. Before accepting these positions, I decided to wait to see if I could
find a job in the Oji area. I have many friends in this area and I prefer to
stay here if I can find work. I found a job at Kansai juku which is located in
Owada. In addition to my full time work at this school, I continue to work at
Nichibei in Oji as a part time English language teacher and marketing director.
I enjoy working very much and have a lot of pride in my work.
I have many hobbies including computers, reading and gardening. I like the
countryside and the outdoors very much. I go hiking almost every day at Myoujin
mountain and I also like mountain bike riding.
Recently Akiko and I have been spending a lot of time together. We do not go out
to exciting places. Instead we go to restaurants and coffee shops or go for a
walk. During our time together we talk a lot in order to learn more about each
other. We have learned that we have very similar thinking and enjoy many of the
same things. Many things are important for a good relationship but similar
thinking and communication are most important. The time we have spent together
has been very pleasant. Akiko and I recently realized how much we enjoy being
with each other and decided to make a promise to get married. We have not set a
date to get married but we both know that we want to be together. I know many of
our family and friends have said that we are going to fast. Please realize that
we have made a promise to get married but we are not planning to get married
very soon. We plan to spend a lot more time together getting to know each other.
My family did not have much money when I was a child. Even though my family did
not have a lot of money, my parents provided a very good home for me. They
always supported me and I was very fortunate to have really great parents. As my
parents got older I looked after them. I worked very hard and was able to buy
them a house, a car and many other things that they could not afford. During
this years of hard work I had little time to meet anyone to marry. I had many
friends but no one seemed good for me. I began to think that I would not find
the right person. Then Akiko and I spent time together recently and I realized
she was the girl I want to marry.
Akiko and I have talked about many things including where we would live after
getting married. I like Japan and I like America. Because I can easily find work
in either country I would be happy to live in either Japan or America. Akiko
said that she would like to visit America to find out if she likes it. I think
that I would like to stay in Japan for now in order to learn more about Akiko
and her family. Maybe next year, Akiko and I could go to America and then Akiko
can decide if she wants to live in Japan or America. Akiko can make this
decision.
I would like the opportunity to meet you. If we all meet often and get to know
each other then you do not have to worry anymore. Please let me know when it is
convenient for me to come to your home and meet. Thank you for taking the time
to read this letter.
Howie
October 23, 2003 -
File Entry
- Riechan email. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
Dear Riechan he
Hi. I was not happy about your email. If you have a house problem why do you try
to deal with it yourself without telling me about it first. A phone call is much
cheaper than having someone come out to do the repairs. Call me next time. Think
about the printer problem. Had you called someone to repair the printer, it
would have been very expensive. You sent email first and I was able to explain
how to repair the printer using the keitai for an explanation. Call first next
time. Tell Otosan to watch the money that he is spending. I need to spend a lot
of money for an apartment and I am not making money now. If things continue to
be difficult in the US and if you and Otosan continue to have so many problems
then I am going to come back. Akiko is very important to me but these days are
so difficult. Today was apartment looking and I went alone with the realtor. The
apartments are very small and very expensive. I have to work a lot to have a
place. If I go back to the US then I do not have to work. That sounds like a
much better option, yeah. Anyway, I got the owner of Nichibei to agree to pay
the beginning costs of an apartment. Probably gonna move the beginning of next
month. Gonna take Akiko with me to look at the two best apartments on Friday. If
things do not get better soon then I am going to come back. Being in Japan is
simply a waste of time for me. It is not easy to do anything. Every day it seems
that I have to depend on someone for something. This is awful for me because I
like to do things on my own same as you. Anyway, the only reason that I am
staying in Japan is because of Akiko. Anyway, gonna send you a long email after
this email. It was written during a few days so the information is kinda old.
Please do a really good job on the translation. It is obviously very important.
Kinda wondering what your gonna do about money if you lose your job. You should
send me a long email and explain many things including the cost of the repairs.
You know I think you and I need to be in contact more if there continues to be
many problems. You can probably tell that I am not happy with many things.
Please call if you want to talk. Anyway, please do the translation as soon as
possible. Matane.
Love
Howie yori
October 28, 2003 -
File Entry
- Riechan and friends email. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
Probably from Riechan
I just got your email. I am not happy about it, too. I did try a lot using the
tool. What did I do more than that. Even if you gave me an idea how to fix it,
happen was happen. You couldn't stop flooding after its happen? What kind of
idea would you give me? Did you tell me how to avoid flooding after its happen?
What do you think how me and otosan could deal with those situation. You didn't
see that why you could tell me that kind of things. How could you fix in the
bathroom with filled of waste?
Tell me now then. It's okey you to come back to the U.S. It is just one of your
choice, but do not tell me I shouldn't have done what I did. I don't think what
we did was not wrong.
Are you fixing the bathroom filled with No. 2? If you can do it, go ahead.
I just didn't want to make more problem and I already tried fixing by myself
with the tool.
What was an another way to fix. Put my arm into the toilet?
Do you realize that sometimes you give me a tough time even you don't know the
situation.
I won't say anything if I were you. If you've done something for my parent even
my parent
had to spend extra fixing money, I am not going to upset at you at all because I
know you tried
to do something to my parent.
Just think what you want. I don't care anymore.
You come back to the U.S or stay in Japan is not my business. I don't need to
hang in there.
what should I have to hang in there for? Waiting for you to come back to clean
the bathroom?
You just don't want to say even thank you for me doing cleaning. You really
think I did the most
stupid things for flooding bathroom.
I understand your feeling well more than any time. Thank you very much for your
thinking.
Don't call me your friend.
Hello,
I was surprised that you'll get married.
You wrote that you and your girl friend will be together in your last mail, but
I did not think you will get married soon.
Anyway, congratulatios!
By the way, do I know her? You said that you will know each other for an year,
so maybe, I do not know her, right? Because I moved to L.A. last year. Did she
stay in San Diego before I moved out?
Did you find an apartment?
I reccomend you to think to have a house if you will be planning to live in
Japan for many years.
In a country side, like my birthplace, the apartment rental fee and the payment
for a housig loan are almost same. I do not know about your area, so please ask
a real estate agent arount your place.
See you.
MAKOTO
Hey there,
OK--Jason and I will put together some stuff we have on the computer and
send it along. Since all of our stuff has pictures, it will be a massive
attachment. If that doesn't work, give us an address and we'll send it
smail mail on ALI's tab.
Does your news involve, say, a woman? Hmmm...
Sarah is having quite a time for herself in Madrid...teaching a zillion
classes and partying several nights a week.
Thanks a lot for the help and stay in touch with us.
seeyuh
Rob
Howie Hi.I'm ready for evening flight.Today is not good for you,but I think you
become happy soon.find a job,apertment etc.... Send email to you agein when I
have time. Akiko
To howie
How have you been?
この前のメールを読んで、howieは友達や環境にとても恵まれているのだと思いました。来年徳島へ引っ越すかもしれないのですね。私は東京に住んでいるため、簡単に奈良や徳島に行く事はできないけれど、行く機会があったら、ぜひ会えるのを楽しみにしています。
howieに聞きたいのですが、日本語の勉強はどうやってするのが効果的でしたか。また、英語を勉強する中で、何が大事だと思いますか。おすすめの勉強方法があったら、ぜひ教えてください。
それでは、また。
恵子
Hi Howie, How are you doing. I guess you fell very happy,right?
Anyway, would you like to go to dinner with me, It'll be easy,if you come to
Osaka, but I'm going to go there, need a few time.
plese call or sent E-mail to me.
see you
Saeko
October 28, 2003 -
File Entry
- Riechan and friends email. The date shown for the file is the date
modified and most likely incorrect except for the year.
Riechan
Hi. I am sending this to you to explain a few things. We have been together for
a long time and I really don't think we should throw our friendship away so
easily. The reason I was upset about the toilet is because if you would have
called first then I could have told you how to fix it with the plunger and it
would have saved a lot of money. You called about the printer but not about the
toilet. Kinda strange. Otosan could have used the other bathroom until you
called me and explained the situation. If he used too much toilet paper then all
you had to dois not keep flushing the toilet and then use the plunger and the
problem would have been fixed. Pretty simple don't you think. Instead of being
reasonable about this, you decided to make the big decision to deal with the
problem on your own. Then I asked you about the cost and you only sent email
that it was expensive. I need to know the exact amount because I need to
transfer the money from a different account. You should be intelligent enough to
understand that. You seem to be having many problems in the US these days. Maybe
you should go back to Japan. If you throw away our friendship that easily then
you are not the nice person that I thought you were. You have probably already
told your friends about this problem between us. That’s your habit any time. You
decide what you want to do about us. The decision is completely up to you as
usual. I am also having a difficult time in Japan. Everyone seems to be very
good at making promises but then they change their minds very soon after. I
really want you to call and tell me your thinking. Try to grow up and be
reasonable. Talk to you soon then.
Howie
Seisuke Hiraoka
Hi. I wanted to send you email that I cannot come to the interview on Thursday.
I have a school in Nara who, one month ago, agreed to sponsor my working visa.
Recently I received a certificate of eligibility from Japan and the certificate
said that I have to go to an embassy in another country and then reenter Japan
with a working visa. Now I am planning to go back to America and reenter Japan.
I am planning to work for the school in Nara part time until I get a full time
job in April. If possible I would like to reschedule the interview for when I
get back from the United States. I really want to work for your school and I am
worried that you might find another teacher. Please tell me what you would like
me to do. Hopefully the Thursday cancellation is not going to be an
inconvenience for you. I am looking forward to receiving your email.
Howie Hayman |
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