Currently in Japan It's been a long time since I practiced my Japanese with anyone. I'm in Japan right now, and I remember a lot of phrases... However, when it comes time for me to actually use them, I just lock up. It was interesting when I had to ask for directions from a passer-by, because I saw she had the same issue. She understood what I was saying, but was very hesitant to speak in English. How common is this issue, do you think? I wish I could stay longer than a week. It's so nice here.

Absence and Return

Talking points are listed after the following personal story.

I just felt the need to post a brief explanation of my disappearance from italki!

Although I was only here occasionally, I really enjoyed my experience here. I looked forward to every conversation I had, and every lesson I scheduled. I loved speaking to new people from around the world! It had been years since I had been in such a versatile community.

Recently, though, I had experienced some hardships. I ended up homeless for about a week, and after that, was trying to settle down in my new home. I moved in with my cousins, now. They actually enjoy languages, like I do! So, it's really exciting. It's much nicer here than it was at my last place!

The reason I ended up homeless is that I moved in with a friend, but they didn't warn the property owner that I was moving in. I was not aware of this, and was kicked out. I didn't have the money to return home. So, I ended up in a homeless shelter. Now, I'm living with my cousins! It's really exciting, because they love foreign languages like I do.

Due to having a safe place to live again, I can start teaching here again! I haven't started yet, but I was even hired on to a company to teach English professionally! It's really a great opportunity. However, I enjoyed teaching here as well. So, I will likely continue to do so. However, once I start, my schedule will be a bit more restricted again. 

Now for the discussion portion of this;

How long have you been on italki?

Have you taken any breaks?

If so, why?

Also, why did you return?

私の犬が友達でした。

(To Learners) The most common errors you see foreigners make in your native language.

This is directed at non-native english speakers, but everyone is welcome to participate.

(I'm re-posting this because I had a duplicate account! I didn't even know I was on it!)

Through the years, I have seen many people struggle with certain phrases or rules in English.

One of the most common issues I have seen would be confusing different tenses. 

As an example: "I have plans yesterday." instead of "I had plans yesterday."

So, in the spirit of sharing cultures, I have one question.

What is the most common error you see foreigners make when speaking your (non-english) language?

This might also help you in your own studies. Try to think if you might be making a similar mistake in English!