Debbie saying "Goodbye" from Hanamaki Train Station to the Kimura family, her hosts for the weekend. It is so hard to believe that in such a short time we both could make dear friends who will remain dear forever! It was a fantastic experience! 

The ONLY picture I have of my weekend hostess and dear friend, Natsue Sasaki. We had such a great time touring Iwate Prefecture and visiting! She and her family made me feel so much at home.  

Visiting with Yuka Sato, the music teacher I greatly admire, and with the computer teacher who amazed Debbie with the graphic art he taught his students. 

Presenting gifts to the principal from Yasawa Junior High School in Hanamaki. This school sent three students to visit Hot Springs Middle School last year. 

Saying goodbye after a wonderful visit to Sasama Daini Elementary!

A happy moment with the students! 

Debbie also was honored with a gift from the children of Sasama Daini!

I am receiving a gift made by the students. They are very gracious!

This young man impressed us with his thoughtful question. 

She loved his enthusiasm and his excellent skills making us feel welcome at his school! 

This young man captured Debbie's heart! 

More questions from the students for their foreign visitors. 

The students had questions for us about life in America. We had fun interacting with them. 

Preparing for lunch at Sasama Daini. The children eat great food. We had curry rice and other wonderful things.

Bowling with the children at Sasama Daini Elementary. It was a lot of fun!

Displaying what we learned during our afternoon of Japanese culture.

More of Hiro playing 

Hiroaki Fujinuma preparing to play his traditional koto in his traditional kimono. The koto has moveable frets so the musician can set the mode or scale for the particular piece being played. At my request, Hiro played "Sakura". 

Maiko Sasaki and me! She taught me to write "music" in Japanese! She also is a power shopper. I had a list of things my children wanted me to purchase. Maiko knows her Japanese popular music, games and manga! With her help, I found everything on the boys' lists! Akiko helped me buy a kimono for Allison!

Debbie's beautiful ikebana arrangement 

My arrangement is looking better and better! 

I'm learning Ikebana. I'm better at growing. I enjoyed learning from these sweet ladies who were very patient! 

Debbie and Maiko Sasaki from the International Center. She was teaching us to write Japan. We asked her to teach us Music and Computer Teacher, also. She was very kind!

Debbie gives calligraphy a try. 

My first try at Japanese characters!