From Texas to Toyota: My Year in Japan

What happens when a seasoned professional woman from Texas moves to Japan without doing her homework? Culture shock blindsides her from the moment she steps off the plane--with sometimes hilarious results. She wasn't just a fish out of water, it was more like fish on the moon. And speaking of fish--she doesn't like them--not the smell, the texture or the taste. But she is an artist, too, and the soul of old Japan eventually wins her heart. She explores Japan with her new- found friends until 9/11 when all communication with friends and family is abruptly severed. Feeling very alone and vulnerable, she realizes how the year abroad has changed her perspective--as a professional, as an artist and as a Texan, finally coming home at year's end with a new appreciation of how precious home is.