Who is My 'Immediate Supervisor'? A Solution When Unsure About Announcing Marriage at Work! Consideration for Others is Important Too!

Announcing My Marriage

With my decision to study abroad in Malaysia, our originally planned wedding date got moved up due to the time required for obtaining a student visa in Malaysia.

Now, while it is not a problem procedurally since I had already inquired with the HR department, it is still necessary to inform my immediate supervisor in my department.

Considering the possibility of being transferred to a different department upon returning, I could potentially travel without mentioning it, but since there's no need to hide it, I thought it would be best to share the news.

Although I don't know when it will happen, I also want to avoid the situation of someone asking, "When did you get married!?" when I take maternity or childcare leave.

Before the question of inviting my supervisor to the wedding, there is no need for them to save the date as I don't have any plans for a wedding.

Who is My "Immediate Supervisor"?

This is where I encountered a dilemma. Who exactly is my "immediate supervisor"?

In the current work environment, the person with personnel authority is the section chief, with positions like assistant section chief or team leader in between.

When it comes to referring to my "immediate supervisor" in internal administrative procedures, it usually means the section chief, whom I may visit to get a seal. However, in terms of day-to-day tasks, I interact more with the assistant section chief or team leader level superiors.

In this case, I'm unsure who I should report my marriage to first.

I searched the internet and found others who were also struggling with this issue, but each situation was different.

I read many posts on platforms like "Yahoo Chiebukuro" and "Hatsugen Komachi."

However, I noticed that older articles from about 10 years ago tended to pop up, and the circumstances regarding women's advancement in society and workplace attitudes have significantly changed. Therefore, I couldn't rely on them as references.

Moreover, since I graduated from university and joined the company at a slightly older age than fresh graduates, although I'm at an age where it's quite common for people of my generation to be married, from another perspective, I'm still a second-year employee.

It might be a bit early to make a marriage announcement, and it's possible that my case is not common, as I'm at the bottom of the hierarchy with many higher-ranking officials.

While researching, I also stumbled upon articles where assistant section chiefs or team leaders expressed dissatisfaction, stating that they would have preferred to be informed first rather than the section chief.

Isn't it unnecessarily complicated to make a marriage announcement by simply saying, "I'm getting married"?

Asking Senior Brides for Advice

Since there was a person in the company who recently got married, I went out for lunch with her and asked for advice. I wanted to know about any local rules within the company.

She also shared stories from other people who got married. It seems that senior brides often choose the standard approach of informing their colleagues after work hours or mentioning it during meetings.

Activating the "Secret Technique" for Announcing Marriage

As for me, I ended up using a "secret technique."

Instead of individually approaching each person, which would be difficult timing-wise and make me nervous, I waited until after regular working hours and approached those who were unsure about whom to inform, announcing it to them collectively.

I also sent an email to those who I couldn't inform in person because I don't stay late due to family circumstances. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to directly inform some individuals in private on another occasion, so it should be fine.

Consideration in the Age of COVID-19

By the way, since the company has diverse employment types and age groups, I told others that I didn't want to openly discuss my marriage. Along those lines, I declined any celebration from my department colleagues, as their kind thoughts were more than enough.

Both my partner and I prefer not to be the center of attention.

Additionally, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there haven't been many social gatherings or off-site events, and I thought that if fundraising or similar activities for celebrations were initiated, it might involve people who don't necessarily desire a close relationship at work. Therefore, I declined any celebration.

Declining a celebration may be considered rude, but in exchange, I am expressing my desire to receive the well wishes of those who want to congratulate us. I think it's alright.

I don't need material gifts; I'm content with the idea of having a meal together before my study abroad in six months.

Meeting the Phantom of Nissay Theatre! Japanese Famous Actor Masachika Ichimura's Solo Play 市村座（Ichimura-za）

My Love for Musicals

For me, going to see stage performances, especially musicals, is an absolute delight. Apart from the theatrical production "Theater of the Heart" by the Shiki Theatre Company, my first-ever musical experience was watching "Wicked" by the Shiki Theatre Company during my elementary school days (Elphaba played by Megumi Hamada and Glinda by Miyuki Numao).

I have a fondness for stories where the protagonist faces challenging situations that can be mentally exhausting, yet they confront them with determination. Productions like "Rebecca," which I saw at Theatre Creation, resonated deeply with me.

However, in recent years, I have been following the performances of Masachika Ichimura-san. His portrayal of the Phantom of the Opera in the revival of "Love Never Dies" was absolutely outstanding.

During "Love Never Dies," I couldn't help but wonder why his gaze towards Christine was so heartrending, and it made me feel uncertain about my own fluttering emotions. 

Perhaps it's because I strongly associate him with his comedic roles in TV shows like "Omoshiro Ojisan" (Funny Uncle) that seeing him in such serious roles like the Phantom was a striking contrast. I also saw him in "Scrooge" (A Christmas Carol) during my previous musical theater visit to Nissay Theatre.

Coincidentally, that day happened to be the birthday of the beloved muscle-bound entertainer, Shinji Takeda. During the after-talk show, we all ended up doing squats together, creating one of the most bewilderingly fun experiences I've had in recent years.

Masachika Ichimura's Solo Play "Ichimura-za"

This edition of Ichimura-za marks a significant milestone in Masachika Ichimura-san's 50-year acting career. Although Ichimura-za is a one-man show, his two sons also make appearances as members of the company.

I vividly remember his eldest son, Yuta, from his performance in "Oliver!"—the first musical I saw after the COVID-19 pandemic. Yuta played a member of a group of boys who make a living through pickpocketing. He had grown into a tall and slender handsome young man. I truly hope to continue supporting his future endeavors.

As for his second son (since he is not engaged in show business and his name is not mentioned in various media, I suppose it's better not to disclose his name), he is currently in the fifth grade of elementary school. He excelled in both recitations and singing on stage, displaying a remarkable level of maturity. It's irresistible to see glimpses of his fifth-grade charm mixed in with his solid performance.

I hope to see them both perform together on the musical stage in the future. Although they are currently focused on their studies, I sincerely hope they continue pursuing acting.

Highlights of "Ichimura-za"

The standout highlight of this edition of Ichimura-za is the second act, where Masachika Ichimura revisits all the productions he has been a part of through music and songs without any breaks. He delivers a non-stop performance that carries on until the very end.

From the past recordings of productions like "The Phantom of the Opera" and "Awakening from a Dream," which I had only heard on audio, to early works that I had no knowledge of, he truly covers them all.

There are scenes featuring the father and sons performing together, as well as dance sequences, making the performance rich and captivating. The show flies by in no time.

Since it has just premiered and there are still nationwide performances ahead, I highly recommend this production to anyone who is interested in "witnessing the legend of the musical world."

Lost on the Way to "Malaysia"?

By the way, I often visit the theater district in Hibiya or Theater Orb in Shibuya at least once a month. However, I recently realized something. I don't remember the route from Yurakucho Station to the theaters.

If I'm heading to Nissay Theatre from Hibiya Station, it's fine, but when it comes to Yurakucho Station, whether it's the Imperial Theatre or Tokyo International Forum, I have to consult a map to figure out the direction.

Today, I needed to pick up tickets along the way, so I walked towards Hibiya and stopped by a Seven-Eleven convenience store.

There aren't many options for convenience stores in that area, but I stumbled upon one near Seven-Eleven, right above the Kagoshima Antenna Shop. It turned out to be the Tokyo office of the "Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board."

Who would have thought it would be here?

I had always assumed that the Japanese page was managed by staff who can speak Japanese and are located in Malaysia, so I was a little surprised to learn about the existence of a Japanese office (apparently, there are offices in Osaka and Tokyo).

I found their blog intriguing, so I'm planning to give it a read.

First Challenge! Malaysian Cuisine at "Malay Chan" in Ikebukuro (Halal Certified) – Tokyo's Halal Restaurant

Malaysian Cuisine at "Malaychan"

Whenever I mention that I'm going to Malaysia, there's always a restaurant that Asian food lovers highly recommend to me. That place is "Malaychan," a Malaysian restaurant located in Ikebukuro.

I decided to give it a try one evening after work. The restaurant is located on the west side of Ikebukuro Station. While various sources mention it's a 5-minute walk from the station, it's not referring to the popular image of the JR Ikebukuro Station's front rotary from the west exit. Instead, it's the distance from the Ikebukuro Station 1b exit, where you walk through the underground passage for a while and come out near the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Rikkyo University. I have overlooked this before and almost been late for appointments at restaurants in the Ikebukuro area, so it's something to be cautious about.

What kind of restaurant is "Malaychan"?

"Malaychan" is an authentic Malaysian restaurant that has been serving traditional cuisine for over 30 years. It's quite impressive that it has continued to thrive in the heart of the city for three decades.

Now, the exterior of the restaurant is stylish and eye-catching, making it hard to believe that it's a bit far from the station. In front of the restaurant, there are menus and samples displayed, allowing you to get a sense of the dishes served.

Upon entering the restaurant, there are several table seats available. I was guided to one of the tables on the first floor, but I heard there is also seating on the second floor.

As I looked through the menu, trying to decide what to eat, the friendly owner, who I assume is the "Mama-san," recommended their signature appetizer set (¥1,100) and suggested adding other appetizers if desired before moving on to the main course.

The owner mentioned that they are usually extremely busy during both lunch and dinner, but today, miraculously, they had some free time. While waiting for my order, I had a pleasant chat with Mama-san.

Perhaps due to the need for hospitality in serving halal cuisine, they usually focus on bento and lunch services. Indeed, there aren't many restaurants serving halal food that come to mind, and even if there's no particular requirement, I believe it's a place worth recommending to friends who have come from afar.

When I mentioned my plan to study abroad in Malaysia, Mama-san kindly shared various aspects of life in Malaysia and offered advice on language learning. Since I'll be attending a language school, there will likely be many foreign students from different countries, but I thought it would be great to make local friends and go out with them!

Despite it being our first meeting, the atmosphere was incredibly pleasant.

Malaysian Cuisine at "Malaychan"

After a while, the dishes arrived. First, the appetizer set, which showcased various Malaysian dishes, was presented on a stylish plate designed like a sterilizing effect banana peel.

In particular, the skewered meat (sate) topped with a curry-like sauce was delicious. The portion sizes of each dish were just right.

I also ordered spring rolls with tempeh. 

Recently, I've been learning Indonesian on Duolingo because it's similar to Malay, and I've always wondered what tempeh tastes like. It was fortunate to have the opportunity to try it.

By the way, as I looked through the menu, I noticed some familiar words like "ayam" (chicken), so it was fun to come across words I knew.

After finishing the appetizers, the main course, "Mee Goreng," arrived. 

It's a sweet and savory stir-fried noodles commonly found in Indonesia and the Malay Peninsula. It was packed with small shrimp (probably) and vegetables, and I was satisfied.

Although I wanted to try the desserts as well, I felt that eating more would affect me the next day, so I decided to stop there this time.

The Allure of "Malaychan": Attention to Detail and Convenience

Upon returning home, I discovered that Malay Chan occasionally receives lessons from Malaysian chefs, which helps them refine their culinary skills. They are continuously working on improving their techniques.

Regarding payment methods, they accept cash, of course, but they also offer a wide range of cashless options such as QR code payments and credit cards. This convenience is appealing since many small Asian ethnic restaurants only accept cash. As someone who prefers cashless transactions, I brought a little extra cash just in case, but it seems there was no need to worry.

There are still many dishes I haven't had the chance to try, such as Nasi Goreng and desserts, so I would love to visit Malay Chan again!

Worried about Keeping "Children's Teeth" in a Milk Tooth Case for Over 20 Years. Is it Really Necessary? What Should I Do?

The Dilemma of the "Milk Tooth Case"

Since purchasing a suitcase, I have been actively decluttering and minimizing my household space in preparation for studying abroad.

Whether it's a reaction to my childhood home, which was filled with belongings, or simply my preference for owning fewer things, I have been fairly successful in decluttering, except for my struggle to let go of one thing.

That thing is the "milk tooth case" where I store my childhood teeth that fell out. It has been tucked away in a small accessory box, similar to a cosmetic case, hidden in the corner.

However, the case I have is not like the trendy and adorable milk tooth cases that are tailored to each individual tooth. Instead, it is a small box resembling an accessory case, with small teeth inside.

My mother, who was well-versed in American culture, or rather, obsessed with Western movies and country-themed goods, probably knew about the Tooth Fairy tradition. She taught me that "milk teeth should be stored in a case."

Unfortunately, she never told me what to do with them when I grew up.

Certainly, now that I'm approaching 30, it's challenging to throw them away. Surprisingly, as I look at each tooth, memories flood back. I recall thoughts like, "It took a long time to extract this tooth because the root was deep," or "This is the tooth the dentist pulled out for me."

I have a feeling I wrote about losing teeth all the time in my childhood diaries, which I probably discarded when I left my parents' house.

Perhaps, rather than being presented with a gift from my parents when a tooth fell out, as I often read in blog articles nowadays, I remember because I personally put each tooth in the case right after it fell out.

During my childhood, when my teeth were falling out, I occasionally opened this case and felt a sense of pride in how hard I had worked to extract teeth with long roots.

Nowadays, that feeling is no longer there.

By the way, I considered the possibility of future reuse, such as in iPS cell research, but it seemed that immediate proper disposal was necessary.

Alternatives to Storing Teeth in a Milk Tooth Case

During my elementary school days, envy grew in me as I heard stories from friends who lived in houses, throwing their teeth onto the roof.

Recently, when I asked around, one person said they threw their teeth from the rooftop of the apartment building they lived in.

There is a possibility that little children's teeth fell on the heads of people living below or walking on the street. Now, looking back, I think it might have been better for me to follow that approach and avoid this dilemma as an adult.

Moreover, some people may have accidentally swallowed their teeth while sleeping (or so they thought). Perhaps the Tooth Fairy took the teeth that were lying near their pillows.

What Happens to Children's Teeth in Malaysia?

While listening to the stories of my Japanese friends, I became curious about the customs regarding fallen children's teeth in Malaysia, considering that countries like the United States and Europe have the Tooth Fairy tradition. I decided to look it up.

I searched in Japanese, but it seems that in Malaysia, when a child's tooth falls out, they bury it in the ground as a way to return it to the earth.

I wondered if there would be many children's teeth buried in vacant lots in residential areas. I felt tempted to dig a little to satisfy my curiosity without raising suspicions.

Advice to Those Considering a Milk Tooth Case: Insights from an Adult Child

As I have described so far, although I find it somewhat troublesome to handle, I believe keeping children's teeth in a milk tooth case is an interesting cultural practice that holds sentimental value for me.

However, for those considering a milk tooth case, it's important to clarify the purpose of keeping the teeth and to check if the child is comfortable with it. If the child doesn't want them, parents can still choose to preserve them as mementos.

I have kept my childhood teeth until now, even in my late twenties. My future husband (to be) was slightly taken aback and asked, "What do you keep them for?"

Nevertheless, they don't take up much space, and they are nostalgic items. Besides, there may come a time when dental technology allows for the regeneration of dry, brittle teeth like mine, or maybe my teeth can be used for experiments. So, I intend to postpone throwing away the milk tooth case for now.

Perhaps even when I become an 80-year-old wrinkled grandmother, I might still have them.

They might be discovered as "fossils of children's teeth from the 2000s stored in a small box" thousands of years from now.

That would be quite romantic.

Must-See! The Dream of a 30-Year-Old Woman Comes True with the 3D Screening of "Titanic" - Great Tips for a Thrifty Experience!

Want to Watch 'Titanic' in Theaters"

I went to see the James Cameron 25th Anniversary 3D Remastered version of "Titanic" currently playing in theaters this weekend. Finally, my long-standing dream has come true.

Back in my college days, when I first watched this film on TV, I envied those who had the chance to see it in theaters about 20 years ago. At the time of its release in 1997, I was only one year old.

While the story of the movie can be enjoyed on a small screen at home, I've always wanted to be captivated by the grandeur of the story and the dynamic beauty of the ship and the sea on the big screen. I also wanted to see the characters' expressions more clearly.

Perhaps if there were theaters showing the original version when I was a college student, I might have been able to see it. However, back then, I watched movies either on cable TV at my parents' house or in the video booths at the university library, so I didn't consider going to the theaters, and before I knew it, I became a working adult.

James Cameron's 25th Anniversary 3D Remastered "Titanic"

Recently, the James Cameron 25th Anniversary 3D Remastered version of "Titanic" started screening in theaters.

My long-held dream of watching it in a movie theater was finally coming true. I thought it was an old movie, and I could go whenever I had free time.

However, to my surprise, the news reported that the theaters were packed with young couples and long-time fans. In fact, the showings at the theaters I usually go to were fully booked for the day and the next, making it impossible to get a reservation.

Although I wished to see it at a later date, I thought it would be better to watch it at a place where it was available so that I wouldn't regret it when I got busier. I made a reservation for a seat at a theater where I could book tickets.

Watch Movies Affordably with WELBOX

By the way, I had the opportunity to join the employee benefit service called WELBOX, and through this service, I could purchase movie tickets for around 1500 yen. Sometimes, there are coupons or campaigns that offer significant discounts, even up to half price.

This time, I watched "Titanic" in an IMAX screening with excellent visual and sound facilities, and it was also a 3D screening, which required an additional cost for the 3D glasses. Normally, you would have to pay separate fees on top of the basic ticket price, but thanks to WELBOX, I could watch it for the same price as a regular ticket.

I think it's better to watch a movie on a day when there's a ladies' day or when movies are available at a discounted price rather than participating in a ticket scramble and ending up in a seat that is not ideal.

Impressions of Fulfilling the Long-Awaited "Titanic" Theater Experience

Now, I had already seen the movie before, so I didn't expect to cry. But I couldn't hold back tears at the beginning and end.

At the beginning, knowing how it ends and the excitement of finally being able to watch "Titanic" on this big screen with impressive sound overwhelmed my emotions. I had goosebumps.

To be honest, when tears started flowing during the submarine scene at the beginning, I think people would have suspected something if the surroundings had been brighter.

By the way, regarding the 3D screening, it's not like the movie was originally made for 3D, and there were no flashy action scenes with the characters due to the 3D effects. However, the 3D portrayal of the ocean was beautifully immersive and breathtaking.

As for my 3D movie experience, I vividly remember watching "Spy Kids" in a theater with 3D glasses about 20 years ago or watching the VHS version (I wonder if there was a DVD version?) with red and blue glasses. There was a sense of "things popping out" in the 3D movies I had seen before, but in this "Titanic" screening, the three-dimensional effect felt very natural.

From what I read in internet articles, it seems that this film, which was released in 2012 as a 3D version, has been further enhanced in terms of visuals.

The visuals themselves were improved, and both Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, despite being in a movie from 1997, portrayed a fleeting love with a freshness that resembled contemporary films.

It was good, really great.

Even if I can watch "Titanic" through subscriptions or reruns in the future, I think it will be quite rare to have the opportunity to watch it in high-quality 3D. I'm glad I jumped into the movie theater without hesitation.

By the way, the running time exceeds three hours, so snacks like popcorn are essential. Currently, alongside "Titanic," a new installment of the also lengthy film "Avatar" is being shown, and the snack shops were crowded with people seeking snacks for similar reasons, so I recommend arriving at the theater early, even if you've secured your seat in advance.

My Transformation: Overcoming the Habit of Skipping Online English Lessons at "Native Camp"

The Habit of Skipping Lessons at Native Camp

I'm taking Native Camp, an online English course that offers unlimited lessons for a monthly fee of 6,480 yen (tax included). I started it because I found going to in-person English classes after work to be inconvenient. With Native Camp, I can study English anytime without reservations, as long as there is a teacher available for "Instant Lesson" even during late nights or early mornings.

Reasons for Skipping Lessons

The reason I often struggle to attend lessons at Native Camp is that I end up spending around 30 minutes preparing before starting the lesson, reading the teacher's explanations and studying the materials. I often feel satisfied, thinking, "Well, I've read plenty of English texts from the materials, so it's fine."

Sometimes, I hesitate to choose experienced teachers who have received good evaluations, as evaluations can also be subjective. I've come across instances where I found recent negative reviews when I checked the comments.

Due to such situations, I tend to avoid those teachers and end up missing lessons for other reasons.

Resolving the Habit of Skipping Lessons through Booking

To tackle this, I decided to schedule my upcoming lessons in advance.

After work, I have other daily tasks and chores to take care of, making it difficult to have dedicated time for selecting study materials and teachers. Therefore, during my commute or lunch break at work, when I can't have an actual English lesson but have a few moments to use my smartphone, I quickly choose the materials and teachers.

Booking a teacher usually requires coins, but there are campaigns like the "New Teacher Free Reservation Campaign" where you can reserve a new teacher for 0 coins (free) and the "Popular Teacher Free Reservation Campaign" on Sundays, allowing you to book popular teachers for 0 coins.

Some may feel uncertain about choosing new teachers, but many Native Camp teachers have experience on other online English platforms or work as full-time English teachers outside of Native Camp.

I've even encountered new teachers who make great use of the chatbox and provide thorough support, sometimes even better than teachers who follow a structured lesson plan.

While utilizing "Instant Lesson" when necessary, using campaigns to reserve lessons and ensuring a schedule in advance is effective in overcoming the habit of skipping lessons.

Lesson Frequencies of Other Native Campers in Online English Lessons

I recall a Filipino teacher asking me, "How often do you study?" In reality, I felt that once a week was already quite good. As I hesitated, thinking that other Native Campers probably study more, the teacher asked, "About once a week?" and I responded with a "Yes." It was a slight exaggeration.

In response, the teacher exclaimed, "Really? That's amazing!" This might have been to boost my motivation, but the fact that my casual pace came out from the teacher's mouth indicated that I was still maintaining a decent frequency of lessons.

When browsing the "Native Camp Square," a forum where Native Camp users gather, I often see questions from people who do Native Camp. They include moms who continue their lessons even if it's just 10 minutes after putting their children to sleep or students who dedicate several hours to lessons in pursuit of studying abroad. It seems that many users prioritize consistency, even if it's in smaller amounts, over time-consuming physical English classes.

Of course, it would be great to accomplish more, but I realized the importance of being able to continue steadily. It's much more affordable than attending physical English classes.

I intend to continue and increase opportunities for speaking English in the future.

Creating a One-of-a-Kind Wedding Ring at Yokohama Renri: The Result and Price

Want to Make Our Wedding Rings by Hand

When it came to getting married, I had always wanted to make our wedding rings by hand, even before I found my partner. I didn't have any specific preferences for luxury brands or flashy stones. I simply wanted a ring that would make me happy to wear.

When I expressed this desire, my partner found a shop called "renri" for me. Since I love the history and culture of Yokohama, he chose a store in Yokohama for us.

Renri is an atelier started by a jewelry designer and a ring craftsman, and its name evokes the image of "happily ever after" with the phrase "比翼連理" (hiyoku-renri).

https://renri.jp/

The shop (atelier) is located near either Bashamichi Station or Nihon-odori Station on the Minatomirai Line of Yokohama's rapid transit system. The building itself looks like an apartment, but as you climb the stairs, you come across the door to renri.

Design Process of renri's Handmade Wedding Rings

In the handmade course, we first decide on the design together with the ring craftsman in charge of design. We had a rough idea of the desired design based on the photos on renri's website and Instagram, but we didn't have a clear image in mind. In addition to photos, the shop had actual ring samples made of different metals and designs, allowing us to try on and discuss various options without worrying about sizes.

I had seen other shops where you could make rings by hand, but I thought this place was particularly meticulous and thorough in the design process.

Even with similar silver-colored metals like platinum and white gold, I could see the difference in shades when I tried them on, and I realized how patterns and color transitions could change the impression of the rings.

The art of ring making is truly fascinating.

Production Process of renri's Handmade Wedding Rings

Once the design is finalized, we move directly to the production booth. We were able to choose the color of the work apron to match our outfit preferences. Additionally, in the production corner, they had a display with our initials.

Now, what is that metal rod for? It serves as the prototype of the ring. We were able to handcraft the rings ourselves, shaping them into ring form and adding the design with the guidance and advice of the ring craftsman, even for someone like me, who is prone to being absent-minded and clumsy.

Though I was a bit nervous about using the burner to soften the metal, looking back at the photos, I was quite satisfied with the results. There were also parts where we used a hammer to shape and add patterns to the rings.

How Did Our Handmade Wedding Rings Turn Out?

Since we requested our names to be engraved on the inside of the rings, including the finishing work, it took about two weeks in total.

And here are the rings we received the other day.

The one without shine has a pattern called "布目" (nunome), an original design by renri.

According to the information from "Mynavi Wedding," the average purchase price for wedding rings is around 299,000 yen.

As for the rings we handmade at renri, the price varies depending on adding stones or additional work, but for designing our desired rings and experiencing the production process, it cost us around the mid-200,000 yen range for two wedding rings.

I think it's fantastic to be able to create rings filled with memories while also being kind to our wallets. I'm glad we chose to make them by hand, and I'm glad we chose this shop.

You Might Meet the Shop's Mascot Cat

By the way, you might have a chance to meet their mascot cats, Saku and Mitsuki. They watch over the ring-making process from nearby and are friendly and soothing.

The Pros and Cons of Getting Married Before Studying Abroad for Women in their Late 20s: What About Using Both Old and New Surnames in the Passport?

By the way, let's talk about getting married.

At this stage before studying abroad, I find myself unable to proceed with concrete administrative tasks despite wanting to quickly complete the procedures, as obtaining a student visa for Malaysia seems to take time.

Originally, we had planned to get married within this year, but due to the decision to study abroad, we decided to advance the wedding date. Specifically, we are planning to proceed with the marriage procedures before obtaining the student visa, which involves linking it with the name on my passport.

The benefits of getting married before studying abroad

Generally, the advantages of getting married before studying abroad include not having to worry if your partner will wait for you until after the study abroad period and the possibility of leaving your belongings in your current home if someone (such as family) remains in Japan.

In addition to these, personally, I consider it advantageous to have my spouse as the designated emergency contact required for various procedures. While studying abroad is an individual endeavor in choosing a school, it has been revealed that there have already been several instances where providing emergency contact information for unforeseen circumstances, similar to when submitting documents to schools or workplaces in Japan, is necessary.

If your family can provide contact information, that would be fine, and it may even be acceptable to ask your family to relay messages to your spouse. However, I thought it would be worrisome if there was no communication between myself and my significant other, who is important to me, especially considering that our families have not yet begun to establish a relationship before the marriage.

The drawbacks of getting married before studying abroad

Regarding my case, neither my partner nor my relatives oppose my decision to study abroad immediately after marriage. They have been supportive as I have always expressed my desire to study abroad and live overseas.

However, if you are the one changing your surname due to marriage, the most troublesome aspect is dealing with the name change procedures.

In my case, since I am planning to change my name, I will need to update my passport with the new name, as well as change the name on credit cards that are likely to be used abroad. Each of these processes will take a few weeks.

Furthermore, although I plan to complete the procedures with the certificates that can be obtained using the new surname for now, there are certain documents, such as university transcripts, that can only be obtained using the maiden name. Therefore, I had to extensively research methods to prove that the maiden name and the new name belong to the same person, just to be safe.

Procedures to prove the same person with the new and maiden surnames

Note that you should conduct your own research for the latest information when proceeding with these procedures. However, it is likely that the following steps will be involved:

While in Japan, translate the family register extract into English and have it notarized at the local ward office. Then, obtain authentication from the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia.

Once in Malaysia, request a family register extract and issue an English version of it at the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia.

Issuance of various certificates.www.my.emb-japan.go.jp

The procedures in Japan would require taking time off on weekdays, and it seems quite cumbersome. However, these are the procedures that need to be done, and if necessary, I can only say that I will do my best.

Passport: Keep the maiden name, change it to the new name, or use both?

In the case of a honeymoon trip, if changing your name and not being able to obtain a new passport in time, it is possible to travel with both the old surname on the passport and the tickets.

It feels somewhat odd to be called by a recently changed name, and I wondered if there was a way to study abroad using the maiden name in a similar way to a honeymoon trip. However, as Japanese certificates to prove my identity will be issued with the new surname from now on, and I also plan to change the name on credit cards, I decided to have consistency and use the new surname in my passport.

If it doesn't work out in time, the worst-case scenario would be to travel to the study abroad destination (in my case, Malaysia) and then proceed with the procedures at the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia.

As for using both the maiden and new surnames, although I personally would like to do so, I have decided not to (i.e., the passport will only have the new surname) because explaining this at immigration checkpoints during travel, not only in Malaysia but also in any future overseas travels, seems to be a hassle.

Considering that in Malaysia, not only having different surnames for married couples but also having no surname at all is quite common, I am concerned about the potential complications in explaining this.

Advice for those contemplating marriage before studying abroad

In my case, I simply accelerated my originally planned marriage before studying abroad, but there may be opinions suggesting that it's unnecessary to get married before studying abroad. As alternatives, you could prepare the documents and have one of the partners submit them, or perhaps there is no rush to get married.

While I decided to get married, I became unsure about the necessary procedures before studying abroad. If there are others who are also struggling with the decision of getting married before studying abroad and the associated procedures, I hope this discussion can be helpful, and I plan to write further articles on this topic in the future.

Japanese Comedian Crocop's "Backstage Best Jokes Live" @ Shinjuku Breaker

Crocop's Live

I attended Crocop's live performance where he showcased his "Hollyist (Duel)" skit as the opening act of King of Conte—a heartwarming experience.

While I've always enjoyed comedy, I had never gone beyond watching it on YouTube or TV. Surprisingly, I made my comedy live debut at Crocop's "Best Jokes Live" at Kinkeiro Theater in Nakameguro. It was my roommate, an avid fan of Crocop (and a former duelist), who insisted on going.

In the winter of my 26th year, I never expected to have my comedy live debut with Crocop before attending a live performance by my long-time favorite Rubber Girl.

Backstage Best Jokes Live

The event I attended was the "Backstage Best Jokes Live" titled "Obake" (Ghost). The name has a strong ring to it.

Unlike the jokes performed at the Best Jokes Live, this concept focused on releasing unfunny (or possibly unfunny) jokes.

The venue was the Shinjuku Breaker theater in Shinjuku. It had a seating capacity of around 30 people, and the stage was incredibly close to the audience.

Comedy Skits and Fanbase

Now, let's talk about the live performance. As a newcomer, it was my first time seeing these skits.

Considering the circumstances surrounding the use of certain songs, I can understand why it was called the "Backstage Best Jokes." But regardless, every skit was hilarious, and I couldn't stop laughing.

Both my roommate and I became captivated by Crocop's "What's That?" comedy sketches, and we often imitate them. It seems like we've developed our own catchphrases at home.

I wonder if it's okay to spoil comedy skits from a live performance? I'm not sure about the etiquette, but I'll refrain from revealing the punchlines because it would take away the fun.

Also, the fans at the live show were fantastic. We had to enter the venue in order of our assigned ticket numbers, and although we couldn't hear the staff calling those waiting outside, the fans themselves played a game of telephone, passing along the message like, "They're calling ticket number XX now!" Everyone managed to enter on time, and there were no complaints. It was a pleasant experience.

Since I probably won't be able to see next year's King of Conte or other comedy events in Malaysia, I'll make sure to follow and support Crocop while I still can. And besides YouTube, I should learn how to gather information from overseas once I get there.

Is it Really Better for Some People Who Can't Say 'Working Holiday/Studying Abroad is Cool!' to Just Quit?

Listening to a Friend's Story about Going on a Working Holiday

Through a mutual friend, I heard that one of my friends from school is going on a working holiday (working holiday visa) to Canada. Without going into specific details, after graduating from university and working as a regular professional in Japan, they felt a surge of motivation to create a work environment outside of Japan and decided to embark on a working holiday.

I genuinely exclaimed, "That's so cool!" The person who shared the story also praised the impressive tale of a friend venturing abroad to establish their own field.

People Who Do and Don't Consider Studying Abroad or Going on a Working Holiday 'Cool'

Initially, my desire to study abroad stemmed from a desire to improve my language skills and experience living abroad.

Of course, there are people who don't feel envious or think going abroad is necessary to fulfill their dreams, as they believe staying in their home country is sufficient. I, too, initially felt that way, as I studied about Japan even during my university days, so I didn't feel a strong need to go abroad.

However, during that time, I had a strong desire to support people who chose to study abroad. Taking action to pursue what one wants to do requires a significant amount of energy.

Planning and preparing for studying abroad, obtaining airline tickets, and living overseas—those who achieve these goals appeared "cool" to me.

Yet, for some reason, there are people who occasionally offer negative advice to those studying abroad or going on a working holiday, advice that could be considered unnecessary interference.

If they were to share their own failures abroad, it might occasionally be surprising due to the differences in eras, but it could still provide some universal experiences that might be helpful.

However, there are individuals who say things like, "Don't quit your job," "Weirdo with a fascination for overseas," or "Studying abroad is just a fantasy," while claiming that it would be futile to go.

While it's their personal perspective, expressing it directly to the individuals or trying to convince them in the presence of those who positively support them doesn't make me feel good about it.

In this World, There Are Also People Who Think Studying Abroad/Working Holiday is Uncool

Depending on the approach to studying abroad or working holiday and the individual's mindset, some people end up choosing or being forced to adopt a different way of working upon returning to the regular Japanese corporate society.

If I were to go abroad, I would probably have to live as a "foreigner," and people I meet would interact with me as such, considering I wouldn't speak Malay. It would undoubtedly be challenging to truly assimilate into the local life.

Whether one finds such a situation interesting or deems it pointless and advises against it is a matter of personal choice.

I suppose one must think, "That's how the world works," and pursue studying abroad regardless.

Do You Really Need an Agent for Studying in Malaysia? Pros, Cons, and Real Experiences

Study Agents for Malaysia Education

When searching for studying in Malaysia on Google, numerous study agent websites appear. They provide various information, such as features of each school, interview reports, detailed procedures for student visas, and assistance services. It seems natural to rely on study agents when pursuing education in Malaysia.

However, this is inevitable because unlike American, Canadian, or Chinese schools targeted by many Japanese students, few Malaysian language schools or universities have websites in Japanese. Therefore, when searching for "Study in Malaysia," Japanese study agent sites tend to dominate the search results.

By the way, "Don't Study in Malaysia" also appears, but...

Generally, when using a study agent, you pay a handling fee or a slightly higher fee compared to researching on your own. They assist with school selection, communication with schools, student visa procedures, flight arrangements, and more.

My Real Experience Without Using a Study Agent

While preparing to study abroad while working, I considered using a study agent as long as the cost was reasonable. I contacted one study agent, but as I mentioned in a previous blog post, they didn't provide information on language schools where I could study both Chinese and English.

Indeed, when searching for language schools that teach Chinese among those recommended by study agents, only one or two schools showed up.

There was a language school that offered one-on-one Chinese courses, which study agents didn't introduce. However, it was considered an irregular course, and schools that specialized in teaching only Chinese didn't appear in my personal research.

Since I wanted to thoroughly investigate schools where I could learn Chinese, I decided to research and apply on my own.

Moreover, since my time in graduate school, I had experience writing emails in English to libraries and research institutions abroad, so I didn't find English email communication particularly challenging.

Although there were some aspects I didn't understand regarding student visas and passport procedures, the staff at language schools, like study agents, were knowledgeable in handling such procedures and patiently explained them if I could explain the situation in English.

Benefits of Using Study Agents and Who Should Use Them?

For those who can't speak or write English at all and want to learn English from scratch in Malaysia, dealing with language school procedures in English can be difficult.

If you go to a language school without Japanese staff or staff who understand Japanese, you may have to email them in English when you have questions, and the writing style of English emails is quite different from Japanese emails that start with "Thank you for your continued support."

The benefit of using study agents is that they allow people who find it difficult to use English to complete procedures in Japanese.

There is also the advantage of knowing what solutions are available when facing difficulties based on their experience.

In my case, there was a desperate situation where the validity of my high school academic certificate had expired, and it couldn't be reissued (or so I thought).

Regarding this issue, I came across a blog by a study agent featuring stories of people who had obtained their certificate through special measures. With some hope left, I contacted my alma mater and managed to resolve the issue. In such situations where I encounter difficulties in my procedures, having someone to rely on feels more reassuring than handling everything alone.

Drawbacks of Using Study Agents

On the other hand, the disadvantages of using study agents include additional costs and the need to choose from the language schools they support (which is often the case).

As a working adult studying abroad, the financial burden is not a significant issue for me. However, for university students planning to study abroad, not only do they already spend a considerable amount on studying abroad, but additional costs might also force them.

to reconsider their budget. Study agents typically charge handling fees or higher fees compared to researching and applying on your own. This can add to the overall cost of studying abroad.

Another drawback is the limited selection of schools. Study agents usually have partnerships or agreements with specific language schools or universities. This means that you might have a restricted choice when it comes to selecting a school. The schools recommended by study agents may not necessarily align with your preferences or specific requirements.

Moreover, relying solely on study agents for information may limit your understanding of the options available. They may focus on promoting certain schools or programs, potentially leaving out other viable choices that could be a better fit for you. Conducting your own research allows you to explore a wider range of options and make an informed decision.

Personal Responsibility and Autonomy

One of the benefits of navigating the study abroad process independently is the development of personal responsibility and autonomy. Taking charge of your own research, application, and communication with schools can enhance your problem-solving skills and self-reliance. It allows you to have a deeper understanding of the process and take ownership of your educational journey.

By personally contacting schools, you can ask specific questions tailored to your needs and preferences. This direct interaction enables you to gather more detailed information and assess whether a particular institution meets your requirements. It also gives you the opportunity to gauge the responsiveness and supportiveness of the school's staff, which can be crucial for a positive study abroad experience.

Recommendations and Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to use a study agent when studying in Malaysia depends on your individual circumstances, language proficiency, budget, and personal preferences. Study agents can provide valuable assistance, especially for individuals who have limited English proficiency or require additional support throughout the process. They offer convenience, guidance, and expertise in navigating the complexities of studying abroad.

However, if you are proficient in English, comfortable with conducting independent research, and prefer to have more control over your choices, you may consider exploring the option of applying to Malaysian schools directly without a study agent. This allows you to have a broader range of options and potentially save on additional fees.

Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons, consider your specific needs and preferences, and make an informed decision that aligns with your goals for studying in Malaysia.

Super awesome video! The free language learning app Duolingo is too good to understand language skills! Can you speak it? How many words?

Otherday, I wrote about how good Duolingo is for learning Chinese, but I found two more clear videos that I would like to share.

1) "Duolingo" English Conversation in a Clothing Store

Recently, clothing stores remind me of the nightingale dance (comedian) "Nakarutin's Select Shop". It's the "Hold on to the trends!" show. 

In this video of a clothing store, Duolingo users will be amazed at the characters. They are all in splendid cosplay. And if you listen to what they are saying, you will find that even the sentence "There is an apple on the table," which I don't know when to use, blends beautifully into the conversation of the clothing store. It is interesting to feel that the conversation becomes more and more forced.

If you are having trouble with just answering questions and not getting into a conversation, then this way of speaking may be a good option for you.

(2) "Duolingo" Italian conversation image

Here is a second video showing what it would be like if people who are learning Italian, but not English, tried chatting with each other. The screen shown is the screen of the Italian application, but the language spoken is English, so I think English learners will be able to hear well enough.

The video shows how the conversation goes from being just a fun conversation to gradually getting out of sync as well.

What you can study with "Duolingo

As you can see from the two videos, even if you study only with "Duolingo," you probably won't be able to have a long and deep conversation like in a discussion. You may only be able to string together short sentences using simple words, or reproduce sentences similar to those you compose in the app.

But I can speak enough of the language to shop on a trip, or to say to someone from that country, "I can speak a little of your language!"

And if you have the right technique, you can even carry on a conversation like these videos.

Duolingo's appeal is that you can acquire this level of language ability just by studying in your spare time.

Searching for a Language School in Malaysia, English and Chinese

Searching for a Language School

It seems that many people who study language in Malaysia are enrolling in a branch of a foreign university in Malaysia or a British university.

It was never an option for me to go to an overseas university after graduating from high school, and it was only recently that I learned that Malaysia is the country of "nasi goreng," which was served as a special lunch in elementary school. (*Indonesia is also the country of nasi goren.)

I imagine that those people who include Malaysia in their choices must be very diligent in researching.

Also, given those circumstances, I am thinking that most of the international students will be young people around 20 years old. In addition to that, I often see stories that there are many students coming from the Middle East such as Saudi Arabia and Yemen in each school because it is an Islamic country.

How to choose an English school

I am not a complete failure in English, but when it comes time to speak, I tend to use a lot of incoherent grammar and words.

Therefore, I would prefer a school where I can speak English and make friends rather than a preparatory school for the IELTS exam or a language school attached to a university.

When choosing a language school, it is recommended to look at media other than websites.

Some schools are very active on You Tube and Facebook, and if you have any questions, you can contact the school directly.

Personally, I found it easier to contact schools by other tools (Facebook Messenger or Whatsapp) than by e-mail, because I can see if the message has been read and I get a reply rather quickly. 

Some schools in East Asia or schools that accept many Japanese and Korean students can use LINE, which is convenient because it is a tool that I usually use.

How to choose a Chinese language school

I once contacted a study abroad agent at a time when I was busy spending time looking for a school while leading a working life.

But, at least as far as there was concerned, they basically did not support bilingual study (English and Chinese). So I gave up on using an agent.

They seemed to be able to introduce Chinese language schools, but they seemed to be limited to those affiliated with English language courses. It was good that they did not try to push me to sign up for English only. They are conscientious.

So I had to look for a Chinese language school on my own. In Malaysia, many people speak a language from the south of China, so when looking for a class in Mandarin, which is often studied in Japan, I had to look for a school that said "Mandarin" or "Mandarin" on the list. 

Since I want to train my instantaneous speaking ability in Chinese, I am not particular about schools where I learn Malaysian Mandarin among other Chinese languages, unless I cannot communicate at all.

Now, study abroad information websites often advertise Malaysia as a country where you can learn both English and Chinese. This must be true, and since there are Chinese speakers living in Malaysia, there are schools that teach Mandarin in the basic education age.

However, my personal impression is that it is quite difficult to find a school when you have to combine it with English classes. If a school offers full-time group lessons during the daytime, I cannot attend because of my English course, and if it is only part-time, I feel it is not much different from what I am studying in Japan today.

In my case, I would first look for a part-time class, and I would try to augment it by finding a Chinese-speaking friend or taking online lessons.

In addition, the means of communication with Chinese language schools is basically the same as with English language schools, but some of them allowed the use of Wechat (微信), which is used in China.

Unlike other applications such as LINE, WeChat does not leave a read status, so it is convenient to check messages at your own pace and translate them smoothly.

I still haven't mastered WeChat's stamp function, but I hope that this unread feature will be introduced in LINE as well.

Use of Google Maps

By the way, if you enter "Language School" in Google Map, you can see the location of the school together with its review information, which is recommended.

However, since the reviews are only from individual users, there is only one review without a comment with 1 star (mischievous?), or the photos are not relevant at all. or if the photos are completely unrelated, I felt that there was a high possibility that they were lies.

I would recommend this method to those who want to find a local language school that is not listed on a study abroad agent's website.

Duolingo Chinese course has been completed for 592 days! What is the level in HSK? Too easy for intermediate learner?

592 days ongoing on the English learning app Duolingo!

"Duolingo" is a free language learning app that covers popular learning languages such as English and French, as well as the highland Valyrian language from the feature drama "Game of Thrones.

I completed the Chinese course in Japanese and then completed the entire course on learning Chinese in English. That means I have finished all the Chinese language courses that I can study on Duolingo.

Although I have recently been aiming to "keep going" and have not joined a league with a high score like the Diamond League, I have "592 days" (as of the end of February 2023) as the number of days I have continued.

For learners who are still in the middle of their courses, they may be wondering what level they will be at when they finish all their courses on Duolingo. 

Before I started learning, I did a lot of research and think "I don't want to waste my time and effort on Duolingo."

My level after completing Duolingo's Chinese courses

This time, I would like to show you what level I can pass in HSK after finishing Duolingo's course as a rough guide.

What is the HSK?

Among the many Chinese language examinations, the HSK is a certification sponsored by the General Department of the Confucius Institute/State Chinese Proficiency Test (孔子学院总部/国家汉办), an organization directly under the Ministry of Education of the Chinese government (equivalent to the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology of Japan), and recognized by the Chinese government.

(Taken and translated from the HSK website, Japan)

Now I have passed HSK Level 3.

For me, the listening comprehension was super difficult, and many of the reading and grammar questions I could solve with confidence.

Duolingo's curriculum is designed with learners from non-Kanji cultures in mind, so there are many questions where you have to choose a combination of pinyin and kanji. For better or worse, they can somehow answer the questions from the beginning by imagining from the Japanese sound readings, and they also have some idea of the meaning. It is better to practice listening and being able to pronounce pinyin alone on your own initiative.

One difference between the Japanese and English courses is that the Japanese course has a slightly smaller number of lessons.

If you want to take more lessons or if you are learning English in parallel, the English course is recommended.

But for learning basic Chinese, I think just the Japanese course is fine.

In conclusion, although those who are proficient in Japanese have the advantage of being able to read Chinese characters and Chinese texts, it is easy to pass HSK2 with Duolingo alone, and HSK3 level can be passed if you supplement your other listening and vocabulary skills.

In fact, there is a great deal of back-up if you work Duolingo from a computer!

By the way, with the app, each time you get a question wrong, one heart disappears, and when all the hearts are gone, you can't work on the question until the hearts are restored, but with the PC, the hearts don't decrease.

If you have time to work on it, I recommend you to work on it from PC.

Instant and cheap a hanko(name stamp) shop! Vending machine that makes stamps with the same name as your favorite character@ Don Quijote Ikebukuro East Exit

Instant hanko is needed.

I needed to get a new personal name stamp in order to use at the procedures related to my study abroad. I decided to get one made in Ikebukuro, where I could drop by on my way home. I appreciate the fact that there are many good hanko shops, such as hanko specialty stores and stationery shops, but they do not suit my needs this time.

This time, rather than a long-lasting one, I want to get a stamp that is so unimportant.

At the Don Quijote

Then I arrived at the 6th floor of Don Quijote Ikebukuro Higashiguchi Ekimae Store. This is where the stamp vending machine is located.

I had an image of Don Quijote in Ikebukuro as a place where people pass each other, and I didn't want to be making stamps while someone was staring at me, but on the 6th floor, the place was sparsely populated. When I went there, one of the two units was being used by a woman who had been there before only.

I made a stamp with a "hanko vending machine."

There are samples of stamp materials and cases, so the first step is to choose the material you want. The cheapest is a plastic one for 500 yen, and the vending machine will tell you the size that fits each purpose, such as bank stamp, jitsuin (registered stamp), and mitome-in (personal stamp). I chose the 1,000-yen stamp for its size and appearance.

After that, you enter the characters you want to put on the stamp and its font and style, and wait about 10 minutes for the process to be completed. Note that the screen keeps saying "30 seconds left," but it takes about 10 minutes.

Impression of hanko vending machine

The stampcomes out with shavings on it. If you lightly brush them off with your finger, a handkerchief, or a tissue, you will have a fine machine-finished stamp.

Since a name stamp can be purchased at a 100-yen store, many people will use that when they urgently need new name stamp, but for those who have rare family name, or for those who need to use a stamp for a higher grade application, I think the hanko vending machine will be useful.

You might think I am not embarrassed by a vending machine's product, but when I use it on a official document, I was told the person that "It is good one!".

You can make a stamp with your favorite character's name.

By the way, this vending machine is also designed to make stamps as souvenirs. Unlike specialty stores, you are not seen by anyone, so there is no need to be embarrassed about what you are typing.

It is also possible to have a hanko with the same last name as your favorite anime characters.

I thought about making a Viktor or Adele stamp too, but the "Yumekuro" character didn't have a last name, unfortunately.

Considering the fact that the same name will produce the same stamp with the same face, I am not comfortable using it as a stamp for bank, but it is good enough for daily use.

Do I need to change my smartphone before studying abroad?

I am an Android user.

My previous smartphone was an Apple iPhone from au. When I switched to Rakuten Mobile, I chose OPPO's Andloid smartphone because at that time it was a resonable way for the poor student.

When I went to China, I've heard that iPhones are made in China, and I thought, "Well, then the chinese one is almost the same as the iPhone. (Not real)"

I honestly had no trouble with chinese android smartphone, except Air Drop problem. I can't share photos with my friend using Air Drop function. In addition, no one ever said "Let's OPPO SHARE" to me.

My impression of the OPPO phone

Since I got the model with the long-lasting battery, I don't have any trouble playing a lot of games. The only personal inconveniences are the aforementioned Air Drop and the difficulty to get the covers.

I want to the new smartphone

At the end of the year, a person who is about to be transferred overseas on the same working place told me that he had replaced his smartphone. 

My phone's battery life hasn't gone down and I'm fine with it as it is, but I'll be taking pictures in Malaysia, and I'm thinking of changing my phone before I go abroad.

I think I'll stay with Android and if I can find a good model, I'll get the same OPPO as I have now. The reason why is because besides the ease of use, it seems to cause less damage if it gets scratched or taken.

I heard that there are some bad people who target travelers' phones because iPhone is still a luxury item. Before I worry about such crimes, I could make a mistake and scratch your phone yourself.

Chinese Android phones are not cheap, but they are cheaper than iPhones, so I can probably get over it by getting a new phone or having it repaired locally with less financial and psychological damage.

I looked at the cell phone company's website and found that they only carry slightly older models, so I think I'll wait a little longer to see if any new models come out before I make a move.

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Highly educated girl with a master's degree, pushed to study abroad by a Kabukicho host

I am a "ちる狂(Chiru-guru)"

I have been supporting Kabukicho host YouTuber "ほすちるHosu Chiru" for about 5 years since I was a college student. I have watched almost all of their videos. I think I have watched most of the sub-channels, and I also watch the members' individual channels, except for the longer videos. I am what you might call a "ちる狂" person.

I think I first became interested in ほすちる when I saw a news clipping of ladies cheering on their host (with love and cash) and videos of champagne calls.

ほすちる's member is りっくん (Rikkun), やるきげんきだいき (Yaruki Genki Daiki), and Justin (Koji).

Of the three, Yaruki Genki Daiki is the same age as me, but he is a junior high school graduate, has been in the workforce for a long time, and is in a position to lead his juniors.

Yaruki Genki Daikki's Study Abroad in the U.S.

Daiki-kun went to the United States to study English in the spring of 2019.

As he says, he didn't study English properly. Sometimes he use English to answer the comments from foreign viewers, but his English is not enough to say good.

But he was able to communicate in overseas trip and went to study abroad. He went to the U.S. Embassy to have a visa issued and had a kind of interview. On the day of his departure, I saw his steady effort of doing a vocabulary book familiar to be used at the university entrance exam in the cab. 

As "an ordinary man of the same generation"

Soon after his departure, Japan, of course, and the entire world, began a lockdown with COVID-19.

Even in the midst of such a declared state of emergency, I often watched live YouTube feeds and other videos of Daiki-kun, who would stream them from his homestaying house. I remember that I was a little surprised to see him looking like a ordinary man of my generation, in a good way, while he looked like a very mature man in the previous videos.

At the time, I somehow thought that international exchange and going abroad would be fun, but I also thought that it was a bad idea to study abroad for a long period without a big dream, such as starting a business or completing an academic degree abroad. I also thought that people who seemed more conscious and spoke English fluently would go.

Then I saw Daiki-kun studying abroad and thought to myself, "Don't be afraid to leave the stability of your life in Japan when others of your age are making their own opportunities and realizing their dreams of studying abroad.

He was not studying English for exams or work. It was different from my image of studying abroad, and I felt I could follow in his footsteps.

Yaruki Genki Daiki pushed me to do it.

A few months later, my working company reopened its overseas training program, and what I had started to aim for was about to become a reality.

In the end, unfortunately, Daiki-kun's study abroad program ended in the middle of the program because of COVID-19, but the fact that Daiki studied abroad pushed me forward.

I made the title of my blog like this to be catchy, but my feeling is one of respect. A cool guy has a cool heart.

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