SOLSC '19 Day Thirty: Japangirl

We just finished a two-hour-long video chat with our Japangirl.  She is halfway through her five-year-maximum JET-ALT job , and is already researching and planning for her return back to the United States.  I think back to what I was doing at the age of twenty-five...

Japangirl:  Budget plans for next three years
Me at 25:  Sale at Target!   

Japangirl:  Paying the bills AND saving for the future
Me at 25:  Paying the bills and...sale at Target!

Japangirl:  Unsure of what job to pursue back in the U.S. (but in possession of a variety of great future-ready skills), already gearing up for the job hunt
Me at 25:  Unsure of whether or not I had the fortitude to keep teaching  (but in possession of...teaching skills, not really valued in the 80s-90s), no clue what I could or should pursue

Japangirl:  Fully bilingual in Japanese and English
Me at 25:  In possession of excellent...English skills

Japangirl:  Living abroad, traveling, maintaining great friendships from high school and beyond
Me at 25:  Living in my college city, traveling only to visit family, friendships mainly with colleagues and occasional phone calls/ letters with high school and college friends

Japangirl:  Pursuing musical and art hobbies
Me at 25:  Some crocheting here and there, some baking...nothing really connecting me with others

I'd like to think that in some ways, I was the same--hardworking, responsible, kind to others.  But in many ways, she is far more well-rounded and mature than I feel even now!  And I couldn't be more proud.

Way to go, Japangirl.  Keep up the good work; we look forward to having you back home in a few years.