Belated Birthday Post

I wanted to publish this post earlier but I didn't find the time.
Three weeks ago, before I went to work, I had received some Birthday gifts from Aco. I was surprised that she could find time to go shopping for me. She is so busy these days.
I really appreciate the effort she put into sending these gifts.

Inside this box were a few very nice shirts. Thank you so much Aco, for thinking of me, and talking time to shop even though I know you are so busy. Running a business and continuing to live in Tokyo, Japan is increasingly challenging. I wish Aco, Lapita, and her family will be well and safe.

Moving to Japan - Airline Ticket

Just a few days ago I bought a ticket to Tokyo. The date of the flight is December 14th 2011. It's just around the corner! I feel that I have taken the first real step towards starting my life together with Aco. I have decided on a language school where I will study Japanese, but I have not yet enrolled. I know where we will live initially, but I am not there yet... it's all in waiting. I'm not sure where I will work... I dream of continuing my work as a cook in Japan. I will have to wait until I get there to see if there are jobs available. I might end up teaching English... who knows? It will be an adventure!
We have had our long distance relationship for almost two years. Although we have spent time together, we have been patiently waiting until the time when we can make the next step and live together. I have been dreaming of this time. It feels well past due. My wish to be with her is ever in my mind and heart. It is certainly challenging to be away from Aco for such a long time, especially during times of stress and worries.
The crisis in Japan has been a worry for us both, more so for Aco, since she is living alone in Tokyo. I do regret when I have my own worries and concerns... because there is so much more going on in the world to worry about this year. I just can't wait for us to be together, living, and going through these things as a couple. I only wish to support her when she needs me, and to take part in all that is happening in Tokyo.

I have bought a Business Class ticket on a JetStar flight. There was a sale, with a difference of only $100 between an economy and business class ticket. So I went for it! It will be the first time for me to fly in Business Class. I look forward to being with Aco :) and the extra leg room!

Tonight's Dinner - Sri Lankan Curry

Tonight I cooked dinner for Phil and our guest Trudy. I made Sri Lankan Pepper Beef Curry, Butter Chicken, and Coconut Sambal. I had a proper Sri Lankan dinner with the Harrison's and Zolan's Mother a few weeks ago. The Coconut Sambal which we had was a perfect addition to a plate of curry and one I had never tried before. I'm not a big fan of coconut usually, but this was delicious.

Coconut Sambal is basically: Shredded Coconut, Chili Paste, Diced Onion, and dried fish. Well, that is how Zolan's Mother had prepared it. The taste was surprisingly delicious and a bit sweet, and the chili paste added a perfect amount of moisture to the coconut making the consistency more palatable.

Here is a photo of some leftovers from tonight's dinner.