Tripping Far Side

Space. Something of a premium here. Stress and solace. The lack of which can build stress and so the need for it that can bring solace. Well, I've always shared space so it isn't an issue, but here's a feeling of what my typical day might be like.

Here's a picture of the staff room. A bit empty when I snapped it but nothing else out of the ordinary. And next is a picture of my desk. There's a row of desks that face me behind my desk (it's covered by the bookcase though). Seems really cramped doesn't it?

Well, it wasn't really any problem, but it would be really hectic at times. The copiers would be running, phones ringing, doors sliding, fingers typing, pages flipping, chairs creaking, and feet shuffling. With all of the teachers working in this one room and students visiting, it's hard to get from one side to the other. If I'm in a good mood, it feels like an enjoyable, productive atmosphere. And if I'm in a bad mood, I totally zone out, sometimes with the help of an iPod.

Listening to others on the phone is really quite amusing because of the constant "Hai, hai" and especially if you're watching, the bowing over the phone. I'd catch myself doing it too. :) When work gets too tiring or too boring, you'll see heads bobbing or on desks. In the middle of the staff room is the Vice Principal's desk, so everyone needs to be at least looking busy all of the time.

The beginning of the day is the staff meeting. Greeting abound with "Ohayo gozaimasu" or "Ossu!" Most teachers eat lunches in the staff room as well, bringing bentos from home. I usually ate my lunch in the cafeteria, sometimes getting a chance to talk with students.

And when I need a break, there's the smoking room. Crazy eh? The room is pretty gross with everything stained with like the tint of coffee. But, I'm weak and I still need to be here. It's a nice chance to become more familiar with some of the male teachers. And when there's no one there, a nice place to get a little quiet.

If you need more, since the school is on a hill, there's a really nice view from the top of Miki. Doesn't the garden look nice? Those trees look really neat.