Japan

Had a great flight from LAX to Narita, Japan. The miles program we used enabled us to be in what they call business class. I'm sold! We stretched out and enjoyed great service and amazing food. BUT, all that said, 11 hours is still an insane amount of time to be on a plane. Saw two movies, read most of one book, had some limited study time and took a nice healthy nap. Most everyone slept most of the way. Laurie had it figured out that we needed to stay awake and try to get ready for serious time change. We tried. But we also slept.

What an odd feeling to get off the plane and realize we're not just the foreigners, but we're completely on our own. There are plenty of English signs, but still needed to ask for help on more than one occasion to get to the right spot to get the bus to the hotel.

Went to the ATM to get cash for the next leg of the trip. So, I go into the little booth with absolutely no thought on what I'm doing, exchange rate, amount I think we need, or anything What a stupid American. At home, I NEVER use ATMs. So, I'm in the booth, and there are hundreds of people scurrying about the airport. I yell out to Laurie, "so how much do we need?" Then that follows with "and what's the exchange rate?" Like she's supposed to know. So, I pull out 2000 yen, thinking it's maybe 200 USD. I'm hot, kinda tired (2:00a.m. Flag time), and basically clueless. It wasn't until I was getting some bottles of water in the hotel gift shop, that I realized I maybe had about 20bucks. The water and snacks came to about 800 yen. Oops. So, needless to say, I found another atm this morning.

My curiosity is up about the Japanese people. Why are we so isolated? Okay, I mean, why am I so isolated? This culture appears to be so very different. In some ways I'm sure it is, in other ways, people are people. I will say we have enjoyed the wonderful hospitality.

By the way, who decides what countries will have drivers on the left side of the road and who gets the right? Why are 'characters' so different from 'letters'? Is this all about Babel?

This morning, Laurie and I are so thankful to God for allowing us this unique opportunity to travel and minister. Thanks for praying for us as we continue the journey. Today, we board for a 7 hour flight. Can't wait to meet up with Charity and Molly tonight and begin the adventure!