wow! *blushes* that's really not a word I'd use to describe myself or my situation. But thanks! I appreciate it. Being an ALT is less brilliance than just being adaptable, and being patient, and being able to communicate even when you can't understand what's going on. that's a skill that you acquire when you live in a foreign country. Being married to a Japanese man has also given me lots of experience with this culture, so i know what to expect - plus I've lived and worked here before. but still it's a new experience - this particular job - and I'm learning. and I'm getting more used to everything.

thanks again for your compliments. it's nice to hear!