Sebastopol World Friends

So much going on. Every day a new adventure, sometimes quite comical. Going with the flow has become our mantra, we usually know the big picture about what is on the schedule, but never seem to know how the dots get connected. We guess "walk", we wind up on a bus, or in someone`s car. We assume we`ll have time to go home and freshen up before the nightime activity...wrong again.

Today was spent in Saga, which could best be described as the capital of the county (Saga prefecture). It is about 1 hour from Yamauchi and we met at the usual 8:30am to board busses and load cars. Many of the Yamauchi students were able to join us as they are official on holiday this week and next. And we are getting to know the parents as well which is really nice.

Just a quick note tonight as I have just returned from an adult party at Rumi`s house. Great fun, lots of food, and plenty of drinks including some kind of Japanese whiskey that they only served to the men but Kathy and I got a little ruffled, asked for some, then had to drink our fair share (no problem as we are big girls to their little men!)

Not sure where to start! Tuesday started with me not having a voice (well, only a squeak!) and having to say goodbye to my first host family. Kathy and I both packed our bags and said goodbye to the homes we were just starting to figure out as we are moving to new host families Wednesday night. No, we didn`t skip Tuesday night - just spent it together at Mt. Korakami.

After a variety of experiences during yesterdays family day, the group was together again today to tour Yamauchi starting with city hall. (Will and Leaf, they have a SWF area with all of our gifts displayed!) We met elementary students in the morning and seniors in the afternoon (the kids were incredible ambassadors and bridged the age gap tremendously).

Today was a host family morning (my family let me sleep in late which I am eternally grateful for)and the afternoon was all ceremony and party.

...describes everything so far!

Yes!

Just checking out this blog thing (thanks, Chris!)...pretty cool...who knows if I'll even see a computer while there...? 2 weeks - no e-mail, no cell phone - now that sounds good.

Cya all tomorrow!

With less than 48 hours until departure, I am sure every traveler is busy answering those final preparation questions like: Do I have all the gifts I need? Should I pack one more pair of jeans, just in case? Will Joan remember to bring the passports and tickets!?!