Care Packages

Some of you have asked us if there are things from America that we miss having here in Japan.  There are a lot of things that we can find here — especially since there is a foreign-food store in a nearby city.  However, there are still a few things we...
An Adventurous (Romantic) Weekend Getaway

An Adventurous (Romantic) Weekend Getaway

Let it never be said that the Costanzos can’t wing it with style! This Friday, Mike says to Jen, “Hey Honey, how does a weekend trip to a ryoukan (Japanese-style inn) sound?” Jen says, “Sounds great, but where?” “We’ll find...
Autumn in Takine

Autumn in Takine

Today excepted, this whole past week here in Tamura has been a week of non-stop wonderful weather. In fact, it was so nice that I (Mike) couldn’t resist taking the digital camera to work and finally climbing up the hundred or so steps to the top of a local park...
Welcome to our Home!

Welcome to our Home!

Hi Friends! Thanks to a great suggestion from Kara L., you are about to be treated to a virtual tour of our apartment! We’ve swept the floor, dusted, made our bed, and even done a few dishes, just for you! Welcome! Come on in! You’ll want to leave your...
Takine School Festival

Takine School Festival

Last Sunday was Takine Jr. High’s school festival. Apparently, every Japanese school has one of these, and they’re big deals. So we were excited to be able to see what all the hype was about. Jen was allowed to come both days, and got to meet the principal...