Part of your World

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

I was not actually that sore on Monday. Yes, my legs were tired, but I wasn't pained, like I've been after regattas. I biked to school. I still hadn't had time to put my bike properly back together, so I made sure the bolts were as tight as my finger tightening could do and went off with me.

I taught four lessons and was told to have my midterm examination written by that Thursday. Also, that I'd need to plan a review lesson for Thursday's class. That kept me quite busy at work, on top of grading all the homework that students were turning in.

I was tired, so I left at 5. My plan had been to get home in time to sew my under-kimono collar on before class, but between one thing and another, it didn't happen. I rushed off to class.

My usual teacher wasn't there and we had a sub (who also spoke no English.) One of my classmates next to me did speak English, so she was a help when something difficult came up.

We practiced getting our kimono on and even put our obi on twice. I can honestly say that I think my kimono was one of the prettiest results. I'm not perfect, I don't know what all the parts are called, but by not having reminders all the time, I remember better. I have no choice.

The fact that I still don't have my underkimono collar sewn on is not detrimental, but it needs to happen before next week. I'm also thinking of bringing omiyage to class next week to thank everyone for putting up with me. Maybe.

I need to buy a strap to hold my obi in place while I tie it. Everyone else has one because it's a standard part of being Japanese. My English-speaking classmate lent me hers to bring to the shop when I buy one so they know what I want.

I realised while tying my obi that I am the first woman in my family to wear a kimono. Everyone else comes from long lines of Japanese women and wearing a kimono is part of their heritage. For me, I am the only one.

I keep forgetting to bring my camera, but there will be pictures next week! I promise!

We'll be practicing a yukata (informal summer kimono) obi in the next week or two and were told to bring our yukata to class. My classmate turned to me and asked if I had one. I said I didn't. See, it's pretty much assumed that everyone has one. Two of my classmates offered to bring me yukata to borrow for class, and one even pulled out her phone to show me pictures of the yukata she owns. They even asked what colors I wanted. I do what to leave with several yukata (they're cheap!) but don't know where or how to buy one. Hopefully one of my classmates will one day take me under wing and help me there.

My English-speaking classmate started talking about the next level of kimono classes (yes, after 24 hours of instruction, there's still MORE to learn!) and asked me to sign up with her. I agreed instantly. After all, I have all the stuff now. And it's been good practice for me. And it gets me out of work at a reasonable hour. And I do look forward to my class every week. That class will start in December or January.