The Smiths in Japan

From a letter dated January 8, 1987–

“Life is pretty basic for us right now–training, working, eating (Steve’s cooking is better than ever–the quality of meat, fish and vegetables is excellent here-superior) sleeping.”

Valerie Lawson-Smith and Steve, after a very trying but interesting time getting situated in Japan, are now in Tsuchiura, north of Tokyo. Steve is studying Aikido 5 mornings a week and taking a variety of jobs primarily teaching English. Valerie plans to start some private TCC classes, has a part time job in a private high school, hired as a sports trainer but used mostly as “an ambassador of American culture. Internationalize is the buzz word here, now!”

Steve and Val are not tourists but are working residents–and at this writing hope to have legal working status which requires a sponsor for a work visa. They live in an urbanized area; their apartment on the 5th floor overlooks a river. The harshness of the urban atmosphere was softened by a snowfall as of the letter date.

Val and Steve would like to hear from friends in the states. Their address is:

Kasumigaura Green Heights
2 – 9 – 29 Minato – Machi #509
Tsuchiura – Shi 〒 300
Japan

or you can address your letters to

Valerie and Steve Smith CA

and they will be forwarded.