Settling in and finding my own place here in Japan has taken some time. I originally came much earlier than I technically “needed” to for work, with the idea that I would be able to find an apartment quickly and move in. That didn’t work out at all, and unfortunately the whole process dragged on. I arrived June 25th in Japan, and it wasn’t until August 13th that I stepped into my own place. Thankfully Ayano helped me out tremendously and graciously let me stay at her place until I found something. That kindness was above and beyond anything I would have asked and I’m incredibly grateful that she helped me so much. It gave me the time to look for the right place and saved me a lot of money. Thank you so much Ayano, I really appreciate it and everything you’ve helped me with.
Now that I have my own space, it is starting to feel like home.
My furniture and my things, plus a plant from Ayano
It’s small, it’s old, it’s not fancy or anything special. 2 big empty rooms, a bathroom and toilet that are clean and simple, and a beautiful walk from the closest station. It’s modest and unassuming, but it is peaceful, relaxed, and exactly what I wanted.
Now that I’ve spent most of my money on finding furniture I loved, I finally feel able to relax. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have your own space, a space that you truly make your own, no matter how tiny or old it may be, where your soul feels comfortable being itself.
Of course I still have my coffee set up, complete with a new electric kettle
I feel less and less of the need to go out, to do things, or to be “busy” in my life. I’ve been spending a lot of time falling asleep on the floor, cleaning, organizing and listening to music. These little things have been making me incredibly happy. Mopping at 6 am, hanging laundry, folding scrap paper to make boxes, I’m delighted by how simple I can make my life and how uncomplicated it can be. I don’t think its right for everyone, but for me, more and more, I am finding my way through this life and it seems less daunting and stressful.
The Sunday afternoon light :)
Afternoons are my favourite as the sunlight streams in and fills the entire room with warmth. I look forward to many days and nights with nothing to do but put on a record and relax <3