Hi everyone! Greetings from Tokyo! I'm uploading a lot of pictures from today and last night. This morning we were the anchors on the morning announcements for the high school. We did it in English, and it was a lot of fun. We went to two English classes where the Japanese students got the chance to interview us, and soon we will be leaving to tour the local elementary school. I am very anxious to see the teaching styles of elementary teachers in Japan, and see how the young students learn.
Tonight Jen and I are going on a "night bus tour" of Tokyo. I'm sure it will be beautiful, with all of the bright lights and screens. We *might* even karaoke afterwards, depending on how much time is left. If we don't do it tonight, we might do it on Thursday--that makes me so happy! What song should I sing? I'm anxious to hear Japanese people sing American songs, as well. So many fun things still await us!!! What an opportunity and trip of a lifetime!!!
The pictures from last night are from a very nice restaurant in Hatagaya called "Shabu Shabu." In the middle of the table is an electric burner, and they bring a huge pot of water and it begins boiling. Then we add a lot of fresh vegetables, noodles, tofu, sausages, and other things to start cooking. Next, we use our chopsticks (I'm still terrible at using those things, so I always get a fork to use as a resort) to dip the thinly cut slices of beef and pork into the water. There are two different bowls to dip them into--one was an orange sauce and one was made of sesame (kind of tasted like peanut butter to me). It was so different than anything I've ever had at home. Trust me...Tokyo Diner restaurant back home is NOT the real thing!!! Finally, they brought us out three tiny scoops of ice cream--vanilla with a chocolate coating (reminded me of Klondike), strawberry, and green tea. All very delicious!
Everyone here in Tokyo always puts up peace signs for their pictures, or they put both of their pointer fingers to their cheeks and smile. They think we Americans look silly just smiling at the camera without doing anything else. I think it's hillarious.
Last night I slept much better (6 1/2 hours in all), which is my new record. It's going to be weird adjusting back to US time. I'm continuing to have the time of my life, and am enjoying every minute of this cultural exposure. Tomorrow is a day here at school again, and I get to see my dear friend Juyoung at night! (I worked with him in the summer of 07 at Knoebels, and he is studying in Tokyo now). Thursday is visiting the beautiful and ancient city of Kamakura, Friday is another day here in school, and Saturday is a half-day here. (Yes, they go to school on Saturdays here!). I'm not sure what all is planned on Saturday evening or Sunday (I think more sight-seeing), and then Monday we fly home! The days are going by way too fast!
To my students--I hope that you are having a fantastic time at school with the substitute. I miss you all, and can't wait to show you my pictures! I don't know if it will work out to video chat with you, because the only time our schedules match up is when I am back at the hotel there, and the wireless there is terrible and is constantly cutting in and out. If not, please know that I am thinking of you all and miss you like crazy! Continue setting a good example for the students around you!!! I love you guys!
Mom--here's your shout out! I love you!!! :-)
My dear, how wonderful it is each time to see your updates. How beautiful all of you look, especially when you are all dressed up. I can see why the boys give lots of attention. You and Jennifer are as beautiful inside as you are on the outside, and hopefully the same can be said of the young ladies. As far as a song choice, wow, you'll have a great time with anything with your amazing talent. Does Jennifer sing?? When you see Juyoung, please give him a sweet mama hug from me, and do tell him of some of my big news, like the smile makeover. I remember your telling us of the Korean's views of having pix taken and always giving the peace sign, and it's interesting to hear that the Japanese share the same opinion. Make sure you learn about the Japanese family structure and how strong of a part their faith plays in their lives, and things like that (that you know I care about :) You continue to be center in my heart and prayers.
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