It's strange to think that it's Christmas time. It really doesn't feel that way. For one thing it has become rather cold. I noticed that it was 11 degrees in one classroom this week (and that was after lunch!) and 10 degrees in the corridors. Doors are left open in the corridors (the front door, the doors leading to other buildings) so basically it's the same temperature inside as outside. But not only that, there's none of the things that usually go on at Christmas. No Christmas parties are being organised (yes, there still will be a staff party – any excuse for a party), the kids aren't preparing for a end of year event, no Christmas lights bus trips, no Carols by Candlelight.... More than that, I guess that there is no feeling of urgency. It's not the end of the school or working year, so it's just a short winter break. There are a few Christmas trees and lights around the place and occasionally I will hear carols in a shop. But all the shops are advertising Christmas Cakes! What is a Christmas Cake? I hear you ask. Prettily iced and decorated sponge cakes. Everyone asks if we eat Christmas cakes.
The kids (and teachers) have been very interested to hear what we do for Christmas. I have been showing the kids some pictures about Christmas in Australia, which they have been very interested in. Everyone has been fascinated about Christmas bonbons. See, it's the little things that are most interesting!
Some Japanese people celebrate Christmas, (mostly by eating cake!), mostly families with small children. Sometimes they will have a plastic tree and parents will by presents for the children. But kids never buy presents for others. They will usually just have a special meal together, not a whole day like most of up commit to with our family.
In Japan Christmas is not a public holiday. To have the day off I have to use my annual leave. Which I am thinking of doing, especially as there is no double-time pay! New Years on the other hand is a very important time of year, they have lots of holidays and write New Years cards to everyone. Knowing Japanese people I'm also expecting lots of fireworks.
So, hope you are all enjoying the bustle and energy of Christmas. And the Christmas carols (I'm not missing them!). Remember to take some photos about the “ordinary things” we do over Christmas so I can show my students how it's done.
It will be very strange to be away from you over Christmas, but probably not too difficult as it doesn't even feel like the right time of year.
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