This years end of the year party. These are my bosses.

I recently met a celebrity in Japan.

My mom recently visited me. Here are some of the highlights:

I went to ginzan Onsen with my mom. Every Japanese agrees that it’s as traditional an Onsen as it gets. Breathtaking, truly.

I went on an historical tour of Fujio (a part of Kakuda) and got to see and hear about the area’s history. Very interesting.

I went to Zao and ate at the Tamagosha (egg restaurant). I ordered oyakodon and a bowl of ice cream. Afterwards, I went blueberry picking before going to an onsen to relax. Onsens, of course, are Japanese bath houses.

The Wing departed for Tokyo. All of Kakuda was impressed by the Wing this year.

The Wing went to several schools including Kakuda Junior High School and Kakuda High School. At the junior high school the students played Dodgebee (dodgeball with a frisbee) and made onigiri (rice balls) with the school children. And at the High School the group engaged in some language exchange.

It was really unfortunate for this years wing that Zao was barely visible due to thick fog. It did prove to be a relaxing day though which I believe everyone enjoyed.

Kakuda hosted this year’s wing by throwing a Welcome Party at the always popular Schinken Factory. The restaurant is known for its German style cuisine and beer. Several years ago it won a prestigious award for one of its beers. The Wing gave its speeches and was warmly received our Japanese hosts.

I recently had the opportunity to volunteer at a Thai Curry stand that my friend was running. We sold Curry near Kakuda station as part of a larger volunteer fundraising effort. The goal behind the funding is to raise money to prepare for a future natural disaster.

Kakuda had its Field Days for the Elementary Schools recently. It has quite a large amount of community involvemnt. And it was neat to see Grandparents and adults participating in the same activities as the children.

I went to Zao recently. I had a picnic at the Heartland Dairy Pasture before going mountain climbing. I finished the day off with a trip to an onsen. Japan has its share of bears. There are signs like this warning tourists of bears all over the countryside.

I was lucky enough to be invited by my friend to the Eagles-Giants baseball game. The Giants are by far and away the most famous baseball team in Japan and are somewhat akin to the Yankees. The local Eagles lost 10-4, but it was a lot of fun

After a brief visit back home to Greenfield, I was delighted to have made it back in time to see the cherry blossoms.

Today was the elementary School’s graduation.

Last weekend was Kakuda Junior High School’s graduation. A joyful day, nonetheless one full of tears.

2013 is the year of the snake or hebi. This is a picture of an ema or picture scroll placed at shrines. On the back of the plaque you are supposed to write your wishes.