Pictures from my students

The teachers were so sweet to have the students write me letters and draw pictures to say goodbye.  They were asked to either draw me or us together.   I love all their artwork but will post just a few today.  Seeing how they enjoyed English class with all the rainbows, hearts, and flowers makes me so happy ...I miss them all (sigh!)

Obento (lunch box)

Today was "bring your obento day" so I stopped by to join in on the fun!  Their moms packed such heathly and colorful lunches for their kids that it's no wonder they enjoyed eating up all their veggies!  Plus, they have so many cute bags, lunch boxes, napkins and utensils that it makes it extra special. 

I attempted to prepare my own but it pales in comparison!  (It's the green and blue box above...  :)   )

Don't you just love the hello kitty bag?  I love them all but my favorite is the strawberry-polka dot one.  I asked her which store she bought it from and she said her mom made it.  Isn't that adorable? 

It was so much fun to relax and eat lunch with them, instead of just teaching my English class and rushing off.  I'll have to do this more often, but next time I'll need to be better prepared with a cute bag and obento box!  :) 

Shuri Castle

We made our way to Shuri Castle to see their 3-day event of festivities. They had traditional, Okinawan dances, tea ceremonies, and a tour of the castle. I thought it'd be fun to dress Ella up in a kimono and she was a big hit with the Japanese tourists!

If you care to look at the slideshow, click here . Happy New Year!

Kawaii Zakka Shop

Today was an unusual day for me because I had the afternoon off...yay! So without a second thought, I went straight to my favorite handmade/specialty shop. If you're a big "zakka" fan like me these places are like heaven!

Plush toys, books, stationary...you name it, they have it.

I love all the yummy colors and kawaii characters but how do they fit everything on the shelves? Japanese sure are professionals at being compact !

If that was not enough, they even have a bakery filled with delicious treats

and fresh flowers for the home.

With some cream cheese bread and a little shopping, it was the perfect way to enjoy my afternoon! :)

Children's Art Exhibit

One of the teachers mentioned that the children submitted their work in the annual children's art exhibition, so today I stopped by the gallery. Turns out, many of the other schools I teach at also entered their students' work in the competition and I was excited to see their art on display. The age range was from 2-5 years old, and their objective was to paint a fun memory from their summer vacation. From family outings to sports day, catching bugs, birthday parties, riding the school bus; these simple moments were the exciting adventures they enjoyed. It was awesome to see their impressions on paper!

Isn't this precious?

So many budding artists!

On the hunt for cicada.

I even ran into one of my kiddos who had his painting on display. Good job, buddy!

The vivid colors, detailed expressions, and spirit of play captured on canvas was truly impressive. Needless to say, I walked away inspired to create that same kind of magic! :)

I love MUJI!

I'm so in love with all things Muji that I'm dedicating this post to the lovely store!

The Japanese make their items so compact and simple...it's amazing!

Pens, pens and more pens!

And lots of yummy goodies!

My little shopping for the day...can't wait to try out the turquoise pen!