Finally, final exams were finished, and I welcome my short winter vacation! I did four tests and one presentation for final exams.  I prepared hard for the tests, but there were a few questions that I haven’t confidence my answer. I was frustrated and thought that I should more study until I came back to Japan. After the test, our teachers gave us the end-of-term party and certificate ceremony. We ate a pumpkin pie, apple cider, cookies, and whip cream in the party. It was so delicious!!  And, our teacher gave us certificate of graduation. When I was in the party, I had many emotions including happiness, sadness, nerves, relief, and a little regret. I was sad because I loved PIA’s teachers. I wanted to learn English with the teachers more. And I was nervous because I don’t have confidence my English, but my school life has finished. I looked back on my school life, I wish I could learn more English, so I was a little regret in my school life. But my study abroad life has not finished yet, so I will study harder than before because I don’t want to regret in my life. However, I was a little happy because my vacation started! The day after this party was Thanksgiving Day, and the next day was Black Friday. And after that, I had a plan to travel New York!

On Thanksgiving Day, American people usually eat turkey. My host family held small party and cook big turkey and bacon. I hadn’t seen the turkey that big! I was surprised and little gross. After I ate meal, I ate apple pie with ice cream and pumpkin pie again! I enjoyed Thanksgiving Day very much. The day’s night, Black Friday started! I left home the evening and waited about 3 hours at electric shop to buy camera. I could buy it and the camera was discounted $300 or more. We can buy some clothes, electric products, and famous high brand products cheaper than usually in that day. In addition, we don’t have to pay tax in Portland, so many other people from difference states came Portland and enjoyed shopping. I also enjoyed shopping that day! In the Black Friday’s night, there was a light up ceremony in downtown Portland. Many people came and sang Christmas songs with local orchestra and singer. I really enjoyed the two days!

I had already spent about three months in Portland. My English skills are probably better than before I came here. But I want to use English more. I want to improve my skills more. I can stay here only more two months. I should use limited time more effectively. I’m going to do volunteer work at restaurant and food pantry from January, so I work hard there and communicate with coworkers and customers. The volunteer experience will be a good opportunity to improve my language and communication skills and learn culture. I’m looking forward to starting job!