As you can tell, the title of this blog is called "Kanpai!" It basically means "Cheers!" in Japanese. Before I get too far ahead, I will tell you a little about myself. My name is Matthew Tufte, but my friends know me as Tuff. I am a junior at the University of Whitewater-Wisconsin and my major is International Studies with a minor in Public Diplomacy and Japanese Studies.
I had originally intended on going to Japan for the Spring 2011 semester, but I am sure you are aware of the tragic events that occurred recently so I will not spend too much time explaining. These unfortunate events put a hiccup in my plans to say the least. Fortunately, I was able to keep both of my jobs, so that I can continue saving over the summer. I am now preparing for a fall departure.
While there is still much to be done in the recovery efforts in Japan, the conditions in heavily damaged areas are considered to be stabilizing. The situation at the Fukushima power plant is more concerning. At this point, it is still under control, but if something were to happen that could be a potential hazard towards my health, then I may not be allowed to go. I am regularly monitoring the US State Department Travel Alerts.
Raising a glass and shouting out "Cheers!" is something that is done on special occasions. Each person has their own definition of such occasions. Some people are cheering for congratulations on a promotion, engagement, or new pregnancy. Some people are cheering for a sports team, a deceased loved one, or a good old time with the boys from back home. Many times it is simply a premise to drinking in unison. What I love about cheering is that there really are no rules.
Therefore I would like to call a toast. To all of the people in affected areas of Japan, to all the fun times I have had with family and friends thus far, and to all the things that I will encounter while I am in Japan.
Kanpai!
