The Brighter Side
04 Nov 2010 8 Comments
Wednesday was by far the toughest day for the GSE team. I think 2.5 weeks in a foreign place with limited communication and freedom was getting to us. But, we persevered. As for my part, I was doing fine. In the morning we toured a graden, but we were ushered to the various places in the park and not allowed to look around freely. Later, we ended up going all of the way to another prefecture, to Hakone, to ride a pirate ship ferry across a lake. On the other side, we went to a glass and lace museum, which was not at all Japanese, but still beautiful. The museum was based on old English, and the gift shop was huge. The garden outside had many trees made of glass crystal.
Tired and worn out, I was happy to return to my host-family, eat yummy udon, peruse the internet, and get to bed by 9:30. Speaking of my host family, my host father carves stone as a hobby. Here is one of his pieces:
Today was a more relaxing day. We took a long bus ride to a temple where we added incense to a shrine, and practiced calligraphy. Bri learned to draw the kanji for “samurai”, while I learned the one for “to believe in”. After enough practice, we painted a final version which was stamped by the monk.
We had lunch at a Rotary meeting, but we did not have to present. There was no time, largely because a Japanese exchange student to Germany for 2 years was presenting about his experience. It was actually a relief not having to present. Next we went to another shrine, which was large and white at the top of a hill. Then we went to another garden, and a tea house before head back to Mishima. I must admit, the days are starting to blur together, and it’s difficult to recall the order of events or the names of the places we have been. Also, I have learned to sleep on the bus. It’s almost instantaneous now.
Tom Boylan
Nov 04, 2010 @ 09:20:12
Hang in there Jillian. The end will draw near and the accounts you are providing are graciously appreciated by more than care to comment. The Windsor Club has many that follow your adventures with great appreciation. Thanks for all you bear and share.
Mom
Nov 04, 2010 @ 14:01:29
Jillian, I read up on all the adventures daily, and have shared with Ann and Dave in South Wales. Ann works for a rotarian part time, so he is following along too. I just loved the carving! Enjoy every moment, even the blurred ones. Love, Mom.
arnie herskovic
Nov 04, 2010 @ 14:25:29
Jillian- Thanks for sharing the details of your very busy schedule. The glass work from your host father is pretty amazing! Sounds as though you are really immersing yourself in a very old and highly regarded culture. We look forward to a brown bag presentation upon your return.
All the Best
Arnie
Darus Trutna
Nov 05, 2010 @ 23:06:46
Thanks for the great update and pictures. I’ve started a picture collection for you with the events, the outfits, and the delicious looking food from all of the blogs combined. I imagine it can be a little straining to be constantly moving to and fro, but I know you’re soaking it all up.
It sounds like you’re not the only one having a rough time in Japan. Here is a news report I just read.
“Recent reports indicate the Japanese banking crisis shows no signs of improving. If anything, it’s getting worse. Following last week’s news that Origami Bank had folded, it was today learned that Sumo Bank has gone belly up. Bonsai Bank plans to cut back some of its branches. Karaoke Bank is up for sale and is going for a song.
Meanwhile, shares in Kamikaze Bank have nose-dived and 500 jobs at Karate Bank will be chopped. Analysts report that there is something fishy going on at Sushi Bank and staff there fear they may get a raw deal.”
Dad
Nov 07, 2010 @ 11:08:41
Whew; I’m exhausted just reading about all your activities. You’re certainly building great memories.
Maureen
Nov 14, 2010 @ 07:36:36
Hi Jillian,
Love your posts. Congratulaitons on your perserverance and thank you so much for keeping us informed. Happy travels home . . . Maureen
Jeanine Norrish
Nov 15, 2010 @ 17:54:00
Hey Sweetie, today is the 15th and it looks like you’re in Tokyo and tomorrow you’ll be heading home. I hope all is going well for you and that you’re not too worn out. Take care, Jeanine
Sandie
Nov 17, 2010 @ 16:41:41
Welcome Home!!!!!!!!!!!!