Kareoke!

Ohayou Gozaimasu!  Good morning. Last night was our Welcome Party with the Tochigi, Tochigi South, and Tochigi West clubs. We had a big feast of American and Japanese food (sashimi! Oishikatta.) and gave our presentation. Afterwards, a few of us headed to kareoke. Bruce & Kelly may be sporting headaches today, but had great performances last night. Kelly & I and our new friend Yuka gave a rousing performance of Lady Gaga, Bad Romance, and Queen, We are the Champions. Let me tell you, Japanese like their kareoke. Slightly different from back home.

 My host mother ^^^

The previous night, Masako-san, my host mother, took me out to dinner with her family. We had shabu shabu, which is when you drop the meat & veggies into boiling water. OISHIKATTA! We also had tempura, sushi, and lots of other foods. The Japanese really know how to eat. Below is her grandson, son, niece & nephew in law with me.

TelTel and I indulged in a little sake! 

We visited Ohirai Shrine yesterday, which was beautiful. It is a traditional Shinto shrine, and the priest was kind enough to walk us through the ceremonies.

Afterwards, we all walked a figure 8 through this big ring for happiness. Hope it works!

We also visited CC9, the Tochigi Cable Company! My host mother is an executive there. We got a full tour, and even posed with the mascot. Kawai!! (Cute!)

We are being treated so great here, and being shown so much hospitality. We can't wait to see what else is in store. Today we visit Nikko, a very historic and holy town in the mountains, with lots of shrines. We are also visiting some waterfalls & a lake, and FINALLY we don't have to wear our uniform. Can't wait!!

Until next time,

RICE PADDY!!!

Mata ne, 

Katie