First post from Ojika-Cho

Hey all, quick post here!

I am in Ojika now, I have been here since the night of July 30th. The only access I have to the internet at the moment is from this computer at work, so no skype or chat access really. It seems like it might be at least another two weeks before I am able to have all of that set up.

I have to tell you, this island is beautiful! It is so incredibly green, with amazing plants growing everywhere, including very large bamboo which I am amazed by.

The insects here are supersized as well. I haven't seen any yet, but I am told there are huge spiders (harmless ones) several inches across, and poisonous centipedes that grow up to 6 inches long. I have already seen HUGE cicadas, the size of small birds, and they are freaky when running through the woods and they scream out and buzz right by my head. They obviously are harmless, but it is surprising when it happens... especially since I am not used to it yet.

I have been going for long runs to orient myself to the island, and it is great to run down the winding, narrow roads past all of the rice paddies, looking out over the ocean and the surrounding islands. It is incredible.

Many of the houses on the island are built in traditional Japanese style, and most have very well landscaped areas in front or back of their houses. I love to see the care and thought that they put in to each individual plant or tree. Literally each tree is hand shaped and cared for.

Well, that is it for today, posts may be spread apart a bit until I have access to internet from my apartment.

Take care,

Brett