Last week Kazu's school had "Undokai" or sports day. It's a huge deal in Japan. The kids practice a group dance, various competitions, and even writing and giving speeches. The school is divided into red group and white group.
Every time I told someone that I was going to Kazu's undokai, they would ask, "Is he on the red team or the white team?" I didn't even know the first few times I was asked. (He was on the white team.)
As the big day approached, I could tell that Kazu was getting a little stressed. The dance moves were hard to remember, the races were tough, he was concerned about getting it all right. I did my best to reassure him, and we braced for the big day.
When it finally came, we had a great day. Noriko brought a lunch in a gorgeous lacquer box, and we cheered on the white team. Kazu ran in a couple of races, did great in the ninja dance, pulled in a tug o' war, and sat still for the long, long speeches by the principal, vice-principal, and the head of the PTA.
Here are some pics. Oh, and white team won!
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| From Japan 2009 |
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| From Japan 2009 |
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| From Japan 2009 |
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| From Japan 2009 |
Great blog! I'm working w/ a grade 6 class in Philadelphia that is studying Japan. They would like to complete a student to student art exchange with a partner class in Japan (22 students). I'm wondering if you or your school might be interested. Please let me know and I will send details.
Posted by: Paul Hurteau | November 20, 2009 at 08:26 AM
Checking back in regarding the possibility of completing the art exchange w/ a US class. Hoping your school is interested. Take care!
Posted by: Paul Hurteau | December 04, 2009 at 07:58 AM