Sebastopol World Friends

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. In honor of that, photos tonight are featuring our outstanding team of US chaperones!

We first toured the prefecture office and got a view of Saga from the 11th floor. They even flew the American flag in our honor. In the attached picture you will see Ali asking question number 539! Then we went to a restored castle which houses a museum we were able to tour. After, we took photos (what a surprise) under some blooming cherry blossoms. See the attached picture of Kathy and I holding Rumi for a shot as we are tired of bending down!

Lunch was at the Washington Hotel (no one knows why it is called that!) Choice of hamburger or vegetarian. Was delicious but not the hamburger we would have gotten in the US. Tummies full we loaded the bus and cars, again, for a quick ride to Saga TV station where the kids were able to look at themselves on television and make the camera zoom in and out. See attached picture and guess who is the camera operator.

Then SHOPPING! I can`t believe how little time we get to shop. It is very interesting to wonder the mall (You Me Town) and browse merchandise of all types. I could have spent hours there just looking at everything and everyone. Ask me when I get home about the elephant boxer shorts or the bull riding exercise machine (I even have pictures!

Back to Yamauchi and the last weekend with our host families. I am sure many activities planned which we won`t really know about until we are in them but that has been our lifestyle since arrival. Everything always turns out really well so we go with it!

I will try and check emails and maybe blog this weekend but make no guarantees (see previous paragraph).

Joan-san (which sounds a lot like John-san as both come out more like `johnson`...we`ve gotten used to it!)

PS I have to mention that my alcohol drinking ability is now legend in Yamauchi/Takeo City. Seems the two glasses of Shocuu I had at last night`s party has stunned the population here. I have had at least 6 people tell me I am `strong to drink like man` and several concerned for my health today. The reality is that I have consumed more alcohol with Kathy during planning meetings than last night! Don`t underestimate the big girls!!!