2009 Extension Writing Blog

My presentation was...

2009-12-13T19:12:00.001-08:00

Finally, I finished my presentation!

Tell to the truth, I did't have any confidences about my presentation at all. At first, we can choose our presentation topic in Japan, and I chose Ecology for my topic. However the topic was changed because our presentation group separated. Therefore I had to join other group. Then I joined in Ooku, but I didn't know about Ooku at all.

To joined Ooku group was so difficult for me, because I had to learn about Ooku first. I think presentation is one of lecture, so speakers have to know about their topic very much. I studied about Ooku with Internet, TV program, and books. To know history was not easy. Sometimes I was reluctant to study. I might complain, but everyone also did hardwork.

Our presentation members tought me a lot gently and kindly. They were so kind for me. I can say that it owe successful of the presentation to them. I really appreciate their kindness.

After the presentation, many people speak to me. They said the presentation was awesome! They also say the pronounciation of "women" and "woman" was perfect :) haha

I listened all of presentation, and all of presentation moved me to tears. I know everyone did hardwork. It was sooo impressing me!
I'm really proud of Extension members, and of course me.

My heart filled with a sense of fulfillment!

Presentation

2009-12-13T19:08:00.000-08:00

Hello. This wednesday I had finished big event for me . It was presentation. We had prepared it since we had stayed in Japan. At first we intended to introduce our hometown but the topic was canged after come back here so we lost our way. We were distressed by it. Then my teacher gave us advise. It was so helpful. We found our way. Our topic is "Small Town". First, we write essay about the topic. However, is was so hard and difficult! I had never written essay in Japanese so I didn't know how to write. Moreover it was first time to write such a long paragraph, it was absolutely hard work for me I think not only me also for everyone. Almost all days I went to bed around 3 o'clock because our homework was huge. I was buried in homework. Most hard point was choosing topic what do I want to tell because there is huge imformation and I had to chose which is import point or interesting for American. It was also difficult to write in formal. It is different from spokane langage. When finally, I had finished my essay I was so happy. I could take a rest a few days.

After essay, Presentation was waitting for us. At first I think it is much easyer than write essay because we had finished to write so we can based on the essay. However the idea was different. Presentation was also so hard. It was far from essay. It was also my first time to tell presentation in English.

These things were really difficult and hard for me but whenever I felt pressure my friends helped and encourage. Not only my copresenter but also every extention students. We often practiced own presentation each other at night in dorm. It is very good memory now. The my presentation day, my friend gave me a letter another friend gave me chocolate to reduce my stress they are so sweet and it gave me power and courage.

During presentation, at first I was so nervous but there are a lot of my friends and teachers. After I see their smile, my stress went away! I appreciate their kindness sincerely.

After everyone finished presentation, we ate a cake. Then we took a picture. Please look this picture. We looks　so happy and proud of ourself. Hard things makes us grow up.

Thank you.

I can't believe it!

2009-12-13T01:40:00.001-08:00

I've done my presentation.

I can't believe that I finished my presentation safely.

Surprisingly, I was not nervous at all. When I gave a speech last semester, I was so nervous in spite of lots of practices. On the other hand, I really enjoyed my presentation despite few practice at my dormitory. I think I smiled at our audience while I did my part. I just had my teachers check our presentation several times. I hardly forgot what I would say on the stage. I didn't write down what I should say about my PowerPoint. I always said a little different sentences, but it didn't matter at all. I hope they always made sense like one of my friends. she didn't memorize what she should say about her topic, she just said what she wanted to tell her audience. I respect her so much.

I'm not sure even when we chose this complicated topic. I'm sure that one of my co-presenters was not my friend when we made living groups. I didn't know even her name nor her face. She became one of my best friends now. If I had not decided to come back here as an Extension student, I would not have talked with her. I guess I should thank goodness because I could know her.

To be honest, my topic had no answer. I just explained my guess. The truth is that I don't know why Japanese people are not good at English speaking. I interviewed some of my friends, RA's and so on. I cannot thank them too much. Thanks to them, I could finish this project. I don't think my information was enough to convince English scholars ,and myself. There must be lots of reasons. I want to know them someday.

This experience will be food for my thought, my mind, my future, everything.

I still can't believe we have already finished our presentations.

I will forget what I explained during my presentation soon, but I will never forget that night when we did it.

I will never forget the kindness of a lot of people who helped me during this semester.

They make what I am.

I'm done!

2009-12-12T22:58:00.000-08:00

December 9th was special day for me, because I finished my presentation on the day! It was very long way to finish this and I had so many troubles to make essay, think about my power point, and practicing presentation.
At the beginning of making my essay, I didn't think this was so hard. My topic was Small Towns in Japan, so I thought it was easy to make and easy to understand for everyone. However, it was not easy at all ,and it took very long hours to make it. I didn't know how to make good essay and mu essay had a lot of grammar mistakes! When I received my essay from my teacher, I always disappointed at the teacher's respond because I always got more research, correction, and rewrite. I didn't think I could finish it. Sometimes, my feeling was so bad and I was very nervous. I couldn't be positive because I had a lots to do. In addition, when I visited a school and I told my essay to one of the students, he couldn't understand what I said at all. I tried to explain it easily, but he couldn't understand my English. I was so shocked and I didn't want to continue to explain more about my topic. After I finished my essay, I didn't know how to make my power point because I had a lot to tell, I couldn't combine the essay. Everything was important for me, so it was difficult to make my power point.
After I finished to make my power point, I practiced a lot with my co-presenters. We had to practice a lot. At the beginning, I took over 10 minutes to speak my part. I talked about how to do our presentation well with my co-presenters. We made letters, a box, a flag, and so on. We asked many teachers to listen to our presentation. Teachers gave us a lot of good advises and they told us our presentation was clear and interesting! We were very glad to hear that.
On December 9th, I wasn't be nerves. I thought it was very happy because everyone looked enjoyed our presentation. When I looked at the audience, they were smilling. After our presentation, many people came to us and they told us our presentation was very good and very easy to understand. As I heard their admires, I was so satisfied with our effort.
I can't believe that I finished my presentation and succeed it. I am proud of myself and my co-presenters because we are done! This memory was very hard for me at the beginning, but now, I am happy to do that. I'm done!

Presentation

2009-12-12T20:02:00.001-08:00

On December 9th, I finished my presentation! I prepared for this presentation all of this Extension program.

The bigining of this semester, I didn't think that I could give a presentation. I always thought that I couldn't do that. During this semester, we had rewrited an essay again and again for 1month. It was the hardest part for me. I think that I don't want to write an essay again;( And then we made slide show and practiced for presentation.

At first, I was very worried about my presentation part because I didn't have confidence in my English. I always thought that I couldn't speak English. However, I practiced with some teachers, my hostmother and my partners. My partners were Yuki.N and Riyo. We were ex-housemates, so we could discuss easily and exchange our opinion. Moreover, We practiced again and again. So, now, I could have confidence in myself.

The presentation day, we prepared for presentation completely so, Our presentation was successful:D! After presentation, many people said to us "It was clear and great job!". I was so happy that ir finised and many people said so.

I think that I could great job because many teachers, my host family, many friends and my family were supported me. I'm so happy that I have great people. Thank you very much! I love all of people around me.

By the way, One of the most surprise thing was, I met my sister's ex-hostfamily after presentation! After presentation, I was spoken to a man and a woman. Then they said "Do you have a sister? She came to here? What' you and your sister's name?" So, I answered and we got it! During my presentation, they thought that I really look like my sister, so they spoken to me. Now, the couple is my friend's hostfamily. So, we will meet again at awards ceremony.

I was so happy to join this Extension Program. I had very very very wonderful time with people in Spokane!

Impressive Presentation

2009-12-12T15:01:00.000-08:00

Extension presentation that introduce about Japanese culture had taken place from on December 7 to 10 th. It was the biggest event in this program. we prepared it from summer vacation, so it was so long.

Our topic was Japanese Education and my topic was Sports Festival. The reasons why I chose Sports Festival are not exist in America, so they have never experienced it, I would like to teach that it is one of the important events in Japan. It is very excited, fun, energetic, impressive, cheerful and most active event for student. I also would like to teach that students need to cooperate with each other. That's why, I decided to present Sports Festival.

Everyone's presentation was so great. I was impressed them so much. My presentation was last day. I felt not only nervous but also excited because I practiced it many times, so I could have confidence. I really enjoyed speaking my topic in front of the audience. I hope they were interested in it. When I finished presentation, I felt a sense of achievement so much and I was so happy. Through this experience, I could have confidence, courage and grow up myself. I thought it became absolutely my advantage.

Presentation

2009-12-12T02:10:00.000-08:00

To have done the presentation is one of the biggest memory of my life, because this was the first time for me to speak in front of lots of people, at the same time, it made me so serious, nervous, and stand at bay. In spite of under the situation, all students did good jobs. I was really impressed by them and I could learn a lot from them, because I was fascinated at each presentation. Each presentation had its original world, and enticed me in the world without my realization. I think it is difficult for us to let our audience learn everything about each topic, because we had only 6 or 7 minutes to explain it, so it is too short to do that, but I could have many interests about their topics, so after going back to Japan, I plan to relearn Japanese culture again. I could not do well about my presentation, but I just hope that the audience has some interests about my topic, and I also wish they try to know about Japanese culture more because of presentations! : )

Presentation

2009-12-11T20:52:00.000-08:00

Yesterday all of Extention students finished our presentations.When we finished everyone was smiling or crying. I was so happy.

Our group gave a presentation on December 8th. Our topic was Ooku. I thought Ooku was very interesting. There were dramas and movie in Japan. It really existed, but it was not written in text books at all. We are very interested in Ooku and also we wanted American people to know this facinating world. America 7n people didn't know Ooku at all , so it was so difficult to explain. We also had many words that we have only in Japanese. We practiced a lot, and our teachers,friends and RA gave us very good advice.

I was so nervous when I practiced my presentation, but when I began to talk in front of people, I really enjoyed it especially when people were surprised at economy in Ooku. When we finished our presentation, many people said to us "It was very interesting and easy to understand." I was so happy and I felt confident. The Presentation was a very big mountain for me. I'm so happy that I could work for this presentation with Yuri and Yuka. I appreciate them very much.

I also enjoyed other groups' presentations. All of them were very interesting and fabulous.This week became the most wonderful week for me.

Presentation

2009-12-11T09:42:00.000-08:00

December, 11th, 2009

Presentation

Our group did the presentation on December 8th. Our turn was second, so I was remembering the practice for the presentation during the first group.

Our topic is Ooku. I decided this topic because that is really interesting for me. I love Japanese history, especially Ooku. That is kind of strange. I thought Americans don't know Ooku so much, so I wanted Americans to know that. I thought that Americans are probably interested in that when they know that. However, actually Americans don't know Ooku at all, so it was too hard to be understand that by Americans. We changed our talk and powerpoint many times. We also practiced and took some advice many times. It was too difficult for Americans to understand our topic at first, but our presentation became more easily to understand for Americans gradually. Therefore, I could have a little bit confidence, but I was too nervous before our presentation.

However, when our presentation started, my nervousness have gone somewhere, even I enjoyed to talk to the audiences. It's amezing because I couldn't speak in front of people even if Japanese in Japan. That's because I'm shy. Therefore, I have had much confidence. In addition, I heard that many Americans said that our presentation was good and they were interested in Ooku. I was really happy. My wish that I want Americans to know about Ooku came true! It's wonderful! I could find new myself that can enjoy to talk in front of people. I also found about a lot of Japanese interesting culture. I'm proud of accomplishing the presentation and I thank everyone who helped me, especially Saki and Yuka. Thank you!

Presentation Before and After

2009-12-06T03:11:00.000-08:00

Before

Through the presentation, I feel like belonging club. I may try to connect to my topic. Although it is something similar I think. We are trying to make one presentation with the same goal with friends like I have done in club when I was in high or junior high school. It is fresh and challenging work. This process makes us sometimes annoy, and sometimes excited, I found many things not only new information, but about me. For example, it is how do I feel in the same situation the other people do, or how different I am from the others. I am digging myself. The presentation work is interesting for me. I like this distance that we have been making. These days we are in hurry, we feel pressure, and stress. I do not think many students hate it. Probably all students feel this pleasure. The difficulty make us strong. We are doing something good for us. This feeling is what we have expected in Extension Program.

After

I am glad that the presentation is finished. I might had felt pressure, because of teamwork, our topic, and my character. The moment my presentation was finished, I felt success but also I was sad. This ending refers to our day to go home. What I had been doing was just to try to be natural as usual, because I seemed to cry when Christopher hugged me. Today is holiday. Many students are going out, and the house is so quiet and peaceful. I am writing this journal thinking of my days in Japan.

Portland

2009-11-23T15:37:00.000-08:00

The Portland tour was great. I was crazy for shopping as if being enchanted by no-tax-magic. I was so happy to get a lot of stuff that I wanted in these days.

Also I learned many about Oregon like the Lewis and Clark Corps of Discovery, the history of Japanese-Americans during WWⅡ, nature, or important people who lived while the Oregon trail was used.

One of my favorite stories in this trip was about Mr.Mcloughlin. He was one of important people who lived while the oregon trail was used. He was a doctor, rich, and helped many pioneers on the trail with his kindness besides his spooky appearance.

The interesting story for me is his removal style.

One time, he moved to the top of the hill... I don't know why. When he moved his house, he carried not only his funiture or clothes, but also his house and all. I didn't know why the moving was so important when our guide talked about it. He was such a novel person. It was very unusual, and so funny.

I had had such an idea in my childhood, but I didn't think there is a person who had the same stupid idea. He should have transfered only his funiture like now. Poor horse had to pull such a huge house in a small street. It was very surprising and unbelievable for me.

Portland Trip

2009-11-23T15:30:00.000-08:00

I went to Portland on an education trip. I have been to LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Boston, Washington D.C., Some cities in the South West until now. I have been to many cities in U.S.A but it was first time for me to go Oregon state and I didn't know there is no sale tax! It is fabulous for girl's. We went to 2 college, Lewis and Clark Museum, McLoughlin House, Pioneer Cemetery, Uwajimaya (Asian supermarket), Japanese American Memorial et cetra.

At first, I went to the Columbia Basin College and I talked with three students who study Japanese. I sometimes spoke Japanese to them and they understood the meaning. We talked about many things but the best conversation topic was "Pokemon". We talked about Pokemon's name, some kinds of Pokemon's game software and Pokemon's song. It was very fun. After talking, I want to get a brand new Pokemon's game software. This is one of my good memory of trip.

Moreover, visiting the biggest book store all over the world, Powell's City of Books was very exciting because I had never visited such a big book store. I got 4 books which are for young people, so probably it is easy to read and understand. After I go back to Japan, I hope that I will start to read those books. I promise to keep reading English book after I return to Japan. While I chose these books, I thought that if we have like this book store in Japan, I would spend all of the day in the book store! I want to go the biggest book store in Japan. However, I enjoyed visiting Powell's City of book store. It was like a city of books!

During this trip, I could learn about a sad history of Japanese Americans. I couldn't believe that story, but it is real. If I didn't go to the Japanese American Memorial, I couldn't know the thing. Although I was not interested in world history before I studied about history in U.S.A, I think that we should know about world history when I studied it because they have a lot of stories that it shouldn't be forgotten forever.

After came back to Spokane , I noticed the trip was the last trip in this program. I felt sad; ( However, I was glad to go to Portland with great friends, teachers and an adviser. I had a wonderful time the trip with them;)

PORTLAND!!!!

2009-11-23T15:26:00.000-08:00

　I couldn't stop myself from buying a lot of things which I liked in Portland. That was because of no tax there and my feeling of being excited. I was crazy because I bought too many things! No tax made me excited. I spent a lot of money, so I did not have much money after shopping.

What I did in Portland was not only shopping, of course. What made me most excited was the Hockey game! I had never seen it and to say the truth, I didn't know it well. I thought I wanted to see NBA. However, after the game started, I was deeply fascinated by it. They sometimes fought and it drove us wild. A song during the fight also aroused us to enthusiasm. At first, I thought is was strange to fight during the game because it was unusual in Japan. If Japanese did it, a referee would make players stop it. However, the referees just saw them. I didn't know why they allowed them to do that. Later I knew it was okay to fight. As I knew the rule, I found the game more interesting. I also saw the cheerleaders dance. They were very beautiful! I was happy because I could take a picture with them. They were very kind. After the game, all of the women had a chance to play with a hockey stick on ice. If I put a puck in the goal, I could get a turkey. However, I couldn't succeed in doing it. Although I could not get it, it was very great experience. I liked hockey very much.

The last day of our trip in Portland, we went to Multnomah Falls. I had never seen falls, I was surprised at the power of the water. It was very strong. The air was fresh, so I was comfortable to be there. My friend and I decided to try climbing the mountain and go to the top of the falls. I thought it was easy because I liked walking and it didn't take so long. However, it was not easy at all! We had to walk a lot and the road was steep and it was raining. We were tired quickly but we didn't stop walking. As we walked over half an hour, I thought he top was very near. Then I found a plate and it said that point was four of eleven. I was very disappointed because I thought I could finish soon. We walked less than half of the way. During our walking, we sometimes had no conversation for a while because we were so tired. However, we didn't want to stop it. We walked, walked and walked. Finally we arrived at the top! The view from the top was different from the bottom. I liked the view from bottom, but long and hard walking were really worth doing. I was proud of myself doing that.

This trip was my last trip during MFWI life. I experienced a lot of new things and I made many good memories. I will never forget this wonderful trip. After I went back to my house, my body ached because of hard walking. I had muscular pain through several days. It was also part pf my memories of Portland!

Portland Trip

2009-11-23T15:21:00.000-08:00

Portland Trip

Last week I went to Portland. It was a great trip. I studied a lot of things about American history university life, and I also enjoyed shopping.

On the first day, we rode on the bus for a very long time. Jill introduced us to one of the Japanese-American movies. I was interested in the movie very much, so I tried to watch it, but I couldn't stay awake because we woke up very early. After we took a short rest Jill taught the story and I tried to watch the continuation again, but I couldn't stay awake again! It was the only time on this trip.

We went Columbia Basin College. We could talk to students. Many of them were still 17 or 18 years old. We could talk to them in Japanese a little. We also talked about our presentation topic. I've never met people who know my topic in America. It was very difficult to explain clearly, but when they listened to me and they were surprised at the story about Ooku I was glad. It was a good experience for me.

We also enjoyed shopping. I think I'm crazy about cosmetics. I had many cosmetics what I wanted to buy. I could buy all of them. It was wonderful. I also went to the Cheesecake Factory. When we went to the East Coast Trip, I didn't have time to go there, so I was very happy and it was wonderful!

The most impressive part of this trip was Japanese-American memorial. On the way to Portland, Jill told us about them. It was very sad. I was impressed with the wards on the memorial. I thought people should not repeat again. I learned one of the important parts of American history.

We went many places in America. During the last semester, we went to Seattle and East Coast. We learned about many people who came from another country, and about the war in America. In this Extension program, we went to the Southwest and Portland. I could see the beauty of nature and learn American History more deeply. All of them were wonderful. I learned a lot of things and shared the wonderful memory with my friends!

Wonderful Portland!

2009-11-23T15:13:00.000-08:00

Our exchange students went to Portland last week, and stayed there for 3 days.

We went to some universities, memorials, cemeteries, and a hockey game!

Here are my wonderful experiences at Portland.

I was very surprised at Reed college because their structures were really beautiful! It looks like British style. I also was surprised at the school system. They look like they have no rules. Actually, they don't have rules, but they have responsibilities instead of rules. Therefore they seemed individualistic. I want to enter this college, but the tuition is $50,000 a year! I couldn't believe it. Another thing that I was surprised are museum and shopping!

First, the museum was awesome! The museum that I went to is not only to look, but also touch and experience. A guide showed us how to use a rifle from a long time ago, and it was interesting! When the guide shot, the sound was really great. The guide also showed us how to make a fire. I touched a flint and tried, but it was difficult for me. Any way, this museum was very interesting.

Second, I was really excited about shopping, because in Portland, there is no tax! I really enjoyed shopping. Some of my friends spent a lot of money. I enjoyed this trip very much, and I heard that there are a lot of Asians, including Japanese also. I want to go there again!

Portland Trip

2009-11-23T15:09:00.000-08:00

November, 19th, 2009

Portland Trip

I traveled in Portland for 4 days. This trip was great for me because I learned a lot of American history, I went shopping, and I ate delicious food. I could do many new experiences.

We went to a hockey game on the 3rd night. I had never watched a hockey game, so before going to the hockey game, I was very interested in watching it. When I arrived there, there were 5 cheerleaders. They warmly welcomed us at the entrance while good smiling. Then the game started.

It was a close game, so I was really excited! Suddenly, 2 players started a fight on the way. I was very surprised because all spectators cheered them.In the hockey game, to do a fight is allowed. It is interesting. Finally, a team that we were cheering won! After the game, I got a Turckey Free Ticket! I was very happy.

I had a lot of good opportunities during this trip, so it was wonderful! If I can do it, I want to watch the hockey game again. I really recommend you to watch it. I had a great time! Thank you.

Wonderful Trip!

2009-11-23T15:06:00.000-08:00

We went on a Portland tour from on Nov 12 to 15th.
My favorite places are Powell's bookstore, Multnomah Falls and the Ice Hockey game.

First, Powell's bookstore is enormous. There are many kinds of books in there. I have never gone to such an enormous bookstore. I was fascinated there. I bought "The Little Prince" and "Howl's Moving Castle". I was satisfied to buy them.

Second, Multonomah Falls are very powerful and strong. When I saw it , I was impressed. I could arrive at the top of the mountain. The view was so beautiful. I felt the beauty of nature.

Third, Ice Hockey game was so exciting for me. I have no opportunity to see the game, so I couldn't imagine so much. While they were playing the game, sometimes they argued and the audience cheered them. After they played it, we tried to shoot to the goal. If I were to shoot to the goal, I could get a Turkey coupon. Unfortunately, I couldn't get it.

Through this trip, I could make nice memory and had a great time!

Portland Trip

2009-11-23T15:04:00.000-08:00

Hello. We went to Portland on November 12 to the 15. I like it there very much. There are many people who are running with their dog or baby to exercise and be surrounded by a lot of nature. These leaves are turning yellow or red and the glow of lawn. There are beautiful colors. People are fashionable like a movie star.

We went to Powell's City of Books. It is absolutely enormous! I was excited. I had never experienced such a good time in a book store. I could see only one zone. I really wanted to see another places. There are used books. It is kind for students to buy books. It was impossible to chose some books there in few hours. I could buy these books cheap. I bought 4 books. One of them is pop up picture book. I had wanted to buy it for long time. Finally, I could buy, so I am happy.

After going to the book store, we watched a hockey game. I don't know the rule but I became a hockey fan. It was exciting, powerful and cool! It was my first time to watch a hockey game. There are nice performances. During the game, they made some smashing tackles. At first it was a surprise to me, but it makes the game more interesting and exciting. Before the game, we watched cheerleaders dancing. They are cute and beautiful. I want to be like them. I enjoyed the game very much.

There is a Japanese food supermarket in Portland. We went there, and then I feel I am in Japan. I bought some snacks and Nimono. It was delicious so, I miss Japanese food especially handmade food. On the bus my friends gave me some snacks. I don't eat rice crackers very much in Japan however, I feel it is more delicious in the USA.

Through the trip I bought a lot of souvenirs. I appreciate that there is no tax in Portland. I really enjoyed this trip. It is fabulous and Portland is one of my favorite places.

My Portland Trip

2009-11-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

I had lot of fun in this trip because I could learn many things about American culture. The most impressive memory for me was to be able to see the library at Reed College which has the British style, and it looked like the library in Harry Potter:) I really long for the students who can go to this college. In the library, the students can't speak at all, but they can talk and eat if they are in the lobby of the library. I was astonished at the time that the library opens. It opens by 2:00am at the earliest, and it opens even on Sunday, so according to our guide, most students tend to spend a lot of their time in the library at evening.

I thought they seemed to be genuine students, because I felt as if they already knew true students should be. I really admired "Honor Principle" that this school has as a system instead of rules. I think almost all of the students live their lives being bound with many rules. It is just passive for them, so it's good system for them to improve themselves and their independent personalities by themselves.

It is said that teaching everything to students is not only education, so this is one of the good points in Reed to replace this idea with its rules.

I was also attracted by the Japanese American memorial in this trip. I could not believe that Jill hadn't studied about it in her school days. It might be natural, because it will be disadvantage for American government to make students learn about it, but it apologized to the people all over the world, especially Japanese Americans, for what the government did.

Jill also said this incident was rare, because it is generally believed that governments seldom apologize what they did in the history, so it's sorrowful story, but I felt relieved a little bit.

Our Rare Experience

2009-11-23T14:55:00.000-08:00

I think I could feel the excellence of America.

For example, some of you may not be able to believe it, there is no sales tax in Oregon. All of us really enjoyed shopping. On the other hand, we have to pay 5% sales tax in Japan wherever we go. Some rules depend on each state in America. It was so interesting.

I also liked Mountain View Cemetery. In Japan there are lots of regulations of the tomb and funeral. When we went to the cemetery, we soon found that the American cemetery was very different from Japanese. Teachers explained that American people build their tombs freely. Japanese people also can choose their gravestone's color and shape, but they tend to be similar to each other. However, American cemetery's atmosphere was super different from Japanese. First, there was no unity with each other. All gravestones were very individualistic. Second, there were some artificial flowers instead of real flowers. It made sense, because American people don't visit their family's grave many times, so they don't clean up the graves by themselves. I think this is the biggest difference between Japanese and American.

Reed college is my favorite American college I've ever visited. Its tuition was soooooo expensive, but some students pay their tuition by themselves. They are very hardworking. The library was so cute! My guide described it like Harry Potter. I really agreed with her. I must be able to live at the library. She told us that Reed students write more than 100 pages graduation thesis every year. Can I write a 100 page thesis? Of course not.

When we visited Multnomah Falls, it rained. However, we saw many travelers who were very energetic and passed us. The salmon which swam back in the river were also energetic. I felt a lack of exercise because I'm younger than them. I walked along 11 switchbacks for the first time in my life. The summit had a fine view. I was so exhausted, so when I returned to the start by myself, I was happy.

This was our last trip in America. I feel a little lonely , but I hope I could learn a lot about America.

My Dearest Mother

2009-11-23T00:14:00.000-08:00

Today, November 22nd is one of my friends, Misako's birthday! We went to Disney On Ice. When I arrived there and saw the ice, I recalled the other Disney On Ice that I went to with my mother when I was young in Japan. I still remember how excited I was at that time, and today also I was excited as if I went back to my childhood. Disney is very fantastic. I could dream. However, I became sleepy during the show because my group mates and I stayed up late and talked a lot last night, so I decided to sleep well before the day when I go to Disney On Ice next time. I hope she had a happy birthday with a lot of cute Disney characters.

Recently, I often think of plans for my mother. Today, I made a new plan; some day I will go to Disney On Ice with her again and enjoy a lot together like children wearing Mickey Mouse ears, eating popcorn, or ice! I have many other plans for her; some day I will move to a house with her where we can have pets and give her a small dog that is very very cute for her birthday or Mother's Day. I will travel many places with her. I will go to an amusement park with her that we often go to in Japan and ride a corkscrew that we've never tried before because we, especially I, don't like it. I will see many beautiful things, eat a lot of delicious food, and experience many funny things with her.

I'm still child, and I don't have money, so many of my plans will take much time to achieve. However, I will be adult as soon as possible and achieve all my plans some day. I want her to be happier than any other people. Her happiness is my happiness. Not anyone else but I will make her laugh always and happiest in the world.

A Warm Personality

2009-11-22T21:03:00.000-08:00

I missed the Portland trip because of sickness. Since I was looking forward to going to Portland, this accident made me sad and mad. I was disappointed about my weekend, but I had a great weekend because of my teacher's sympathies. If they hadn't invited me, I would have killed the time no pleasure. I had a great time with Fumie, Anikke and Christopher's family. Anikke took us to many places, and we enjoyed shopping. After that, she invited us to her apartment. I had never been to teacher's house, so I was surprised her kindness. Her apartment's atmosphere relaxed me, So I could feel comfortable. After we enjoyed talking, Fumie and I celebrated her birthday!! I was very happy because we could see her happy face. And we went to downtown to watch a movie. It was such a pretty movie, but sometimes I couldn't understand their English because their English was so fast for me. Since Anikke taught us the summary of story, I could guess their dialogue. After we enjoyed the movie a lot, Fumie and I went to Christpher's house. I was looking forward to meeting his family, especially his daughters because I have met them once in class. His family was absolutely marvelous!! I wasn't nervous because his family was so friendly for us. I learned many thing from his family. His daughters taught me about American high school. Their story was interesting. I enjoyed taiking with his family. They took us to Christopher's parent's house. His parent was so kind to us. I played billiards. It was my first time but I could enjoy the game because they taught us how to play it so clearly. After we went back to home, Fumie and his daughters and I kept talking until midnight. It was good memory for me. My boring weekend turned excellent weekend because of my teacher's kindness. I appreciate their kindness. I can't express this my feeling. Thank you for everything.

Disney on Ice

2009-11-22T16:12:00.000-08:00

I went to Disney on Ice at Spokane Arena.

It was wonderful. Especially I liked the Lion King, so I'm really looking forward to seeing the Lion King's musical!! Most of American children got the goods. Then I remembered my childhood. When I was young, I went to the Wizard of OZ on Ice once in Japan. I wanted the goods, and I asked my mother about it. She said, "I don't think you really need it" and she didn't accept my request. Probably she thought that it was not good to buy easily something to me. If she didn't care about it, I might have been a wasteful person. It's usual way of thinking in Japan. Japanese parents train strictly their children from childhood sometimes. I understand that, but I was a little sad. It compared Japan and America. American parents don't care about it like Japanese so much. It's one of the differences between Japan and America.

I don't know which way is the best yet. Maybe it depends on the children's characters, but I want to buy something for my children on some special day when I will be a mother.

How do we spend the rest with good way?

2009-11-22T15:53:00.000-08:00

　　　↓　３ months

Did you know we can spend only less than one month here. The three months that we have spent was very fast for me. I felt more enjoyable this semester better than before definitely. What is the difference? One is we had many kinds of opportunities much more than before. Another is we are comfortable to be here in America, or American custom, character, culture, food, and so on. I love America very much. However, I have a problem because I became being like American. I have spent here about for 7 months, so I change my value, thinking, view points, and dreams. I am going to go back to Japan. It means I have to be back to Japanese. Unfortunately, Japan doesn’t make us dream. It’s difficult that we dream something in Japan. Changing own mind is good, but I will live in Japan. When in America do as the Americans do. When in Japan do as the Japanese do. I dreamed too much. I have to look real world, and I have to remind Japanese style, culture, custom, and manner until I go back.

G13

2009-11-22T00:05:00.000-08:00

We have only 1 month to stay in America. I had a lot of things to do and I was very busy everyday, but I had a wonderful life with my housemates.

First, everyone laughs everyday in my house. We really enjoy our dormitry life because they are funny and they make me comfortable. We often eat lunch ,dinner or something together, and we watch DVD when we have a free time. It's one of the my favorite times.

Second, we help each other. For example, we gather and teach or ask questions each other before a test. I can remember easily and it's very helpful, but I also enjoyed studying because I was fun to talk with them.

The biggest thing is that we decided to speak English in my house. At first, we couldn't keep it but one day, everyone tried to speak English hard even if it's difficult to tell something. We made rule to speak English at least until 8 p.m. After that, I learned a lot of conversation words from my housemates and everyone can speak more naturally now.

We have enthusiasm and we improve each other.

I'm a lucky girl to live with this member and I want to make more precious memories in this group.

My Special Time❤

2009-11-21T22:12:00.000-08:00

Recently, I had two things that I really enjoyed.
First, I went to Adams Elementary school for volunteer.

My activity was Japanese game or dance, so we decided to teach them to Bon dance, sumo and snow man game. At first, we worried about our activity because we had very short time. We thought very difficult to tell them these activity such a short time. But we tried to do our best.

They were so sweet and they showed interest in everything that we taught even though

our explanation was so bad. I was very happy to see their cute smile. I felt this volunteer is very

awsome because I could make students very hapy and fun. What's more, I could enjoy it with

them. I want to do volunteer more and more if I can. I had a great time with students.

The next thing that I really enjoyed is I went to Barbara's house. She invited all of extension

students and November 19th was our group's turn. At first, we went to Sushi yama.

It was the Japanese restaurant and I went there for the first time. Surprisingly, when we

arrived there, I found a car that looks like Anikke's car and there was Anikke!!!!

I was so happy that she joined us. We orderd Japanese delicious box meal. It was almost

like Japanese food!!! I was so excited. We talked many topic such as Japanese custom

or Japanese food. I was very surprised because my family' s custom is different from

other families. My family always eat Osechi on December 31st. I thought it is

natural. But I noticed it is wrong. Japanese usually eat them on January 1st. I couldn't

believe it. My family was wrong!!!! It' s too late to notice. But we usually eat Ozouni on

January 1st but another friend's family eat it December 1st, so we thought we have

own custom in our house. I enjoyed talking very much!!!! After that, we went to

Barbara's house. Her house was very pretty!!!! I love her house. I saw real fireplace

for the first time. It was very warm!!! I was very happy that I could see it, and she

made us chocolatecake^^ It was so delicious!! We were the happiest girls in the world.

The day was like dream. I enjoyed it very much. Thank you Barbara!!!

The Countdown in MFWI

2009-11-21T18:52:00.000-08:00

The time when I can be here, MFWI, is only a month. It is snowing outside. It will be December soon. I have to spend the rest of the time doing my best. First, I really have to practice my presentation. I would like to regard this event as one of my best memories. It is sometimes difficult to communicate with my partners, but the more I talk with them, the much better presentation I can do. Also, we can become even closer friends. To do something with my friends makes me learn the important things. They are the importance of cooperation and discussion why I can become stronger and have my opinion. Secondly, I have to talk more with native English speakers such as teachers, RAs, my host family, and so on. This experience in MFWI is very precious, because I am in not in Japan but America. There are tons of American people, which is the chance to improve my English skill. I have to effectively use the chance whenever I can talk with native English speakers. Finally, I have to treasure the new meeting with someone, because I can discover new things, thinkings, and hobbies. On the last semester, I saw my high school pen pal who was very attractive. He is a good runner, and he talked why he likes running when there was a twinkle in his eyes. I noticed that I have to find out my hobby. After seeing him, I began running, that is one of my hobbies now.

The countdown here is already starting. 5,4,3,2,1, ready go!!

★Portland★

2009-11-21T10:52:00.000-08:00

I went to Portloand from 12 to 15 November. My favorite places are Reed College and downtown and the ice hockey stadium. Reed college has a retro and cute campus. I like these buildings. One of the billdings was built 100 years ago. When I went there, one student gave us a campus tour. During this tour, I heard a lot of surprising information. First, the library is open until 2:00 a.m. It was impossible thing! I really impressed this thing.Students do their essays and assignments. Then, inside of library was so cool!! It seemed to appear in Harry Potter's movie. If I can do my assignment there, I'll be well forward with my work. Second, the school expenses. It cost fifty thousand dollars a year. It is so expensive!!! So, 50 percent of students get a scholarship. Down town was similar to Seattle, but I think Downtown of Seattle is cleaner than Portland's. There are a lot of people and shops. It was thriving and fashionable place. I liked the atmosphere. On this day, I bought some stuff for only myself. I was so satisfied!! Then, I saw a strange man. This man's face was painted silver. And all his clothes and shoes were silver. He had glass ball and maneuvered these ball. He looked like robot. Ice Hockey game was so exciting!! I have never seen ice hocky game before, so I didn't know the rules. And Ice hockey game is more violent than I imagined. We boosted the team that is named Winter Hawxs. After a couple of minutes later the game started, two player started the fight. But judge person didn't stop the fight. Then, audience kindled the fight and shouted. I was very surprised!! As I went to the home studium of this team, so When the player goaled, audience's response was so nice!! Then, my team won finally. As I watched the ice hockey game for the first time, I became fan of ice hockey. Anyway, I really had a good time at Portland★

My Precious Friends★13

2009-11-19T21:00:00.000-08:00

We are absolutely fabulous friends!!! Yukino, Yuka, Yui and I graduated from same middle school, and Honami, Tomomi and I graduated from same high school! Actually, we didn't know each other. We just know faces and names. Yukino,Tomomi, Yui, Honami and I were in the same class in senior year, but until senior year, we didn't know each other. We were friends, but actually not the same as now.

First, once I and Yukino quarrelled at the beginning of senior year, because we couldn't understand each other. However now we have good relationship. I don't remember how we made up our relationship, but now we are good friends!:D And she is my roommate now!haha When we were deciding extension roommates, everyone said "You guys should separate! Absolutely you'll quarrel!!!" all of our ex-housemates said it. but somehow, we had confidence that we won't quarrel. After decide roomie, I was kind of nervous, because I thought I would mess our room, and I had no idea to live with her. Now I'm living with her, but we have never quarrelled!! She is so kind for me and she understand me. Also, I understand her. That's why we have good relationship now!:D I love my roomie, Yukino★

Second, I was in the group which is Tomomi, Honami, Yui and some members in. However, I couldn't talk well with them by graduation because they were so cute and they had sense of fashion!haha I longed for them:D I was so nervous to talk with them! I was like a chicken boy! After graduating from high school, we entered MWU, and we were in the same group. After entering MWU, I could talk with them without nervousness. We became better friends than before. They were so funny!! I didn't know they were so funny.

I and Yuka became friends after we graduated high school. We just knew each other, but we had never talked even we graduated from same high school. She also so funny and thoughtful!!

Third, our group, Tomomi, Yuka, Yui, Honami, Yukino and I met Saori and Riyo at MFWI. We didn't know each other by the meeting of extension housemates. First, I was so shy and couldn't speak, but now we have good relationship! They are also funny. First, I concerned about living together, because we didn't know each other. We didn't know their character and lifestyle. However, Saori and Riyo also didn't know each other. I think they were also worried about same things and it is hard to into our group, because we were all together after entered university. However, they accustomed to live with us, and we are enjoying our life now.

In conclusion, now we are good friends!!! We are enjoying living together! we help each other, watch movies, eat something at kitchen together and talk a lot!!!!! No life, no G13. They are part of me! I met wonderful friends. I want to stay with them! I don't want to leave them. I love them so much★　I want to make a lot of memory as much as we can!! We'll enjoy our MFWI life!!!!!♪♪

Marvelous Weekend!!!

2009-11-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

When I heard that I couldn't go to Portland trip, I was really shocked and embarrassed, but I spend delightful time with Yuka, Anikke, and Christopher's family. It's one of the happiest memories for me, and I appreciate them so much. If I had been alone in the house, I must have sunk in sorrow.

Anikke picked us up on Friday morning, and we went shopping. The store we went to was very charming. One of the specific reason I like the shop was pretty decorations. Fashionable Christmas made me excited. I feel happy whenever I see Christmas decorations in the stores, towns, and streets. I think Christmas gives a lot of children dreams, and I was also given dreams when I was a child, so Christmas is the most favorable event for me in a year. I found some Japanese snacks in the store, and I felt as if I were in Japan. I especially missed Japanese snacks, cookies, and candies. After that, happily, Anikke chose a nice movie, Christmas Carol, and it was very exciting. It was snowy outside, so it was the most suitable climate! I think Christmas and snow are a good match. It was 3D movie, and character sprang out suddenly; I thought it was more powerful than ordinary movies. It was not easy to understand for me because English was so fast!!! I think I need to practice listening;-) Anyway, I enjoyed watching movies.

After we depart from Anikke, we went to Christopher's house. I was very happy because we were warmly welcomed. I was nervous when I saw them, but his daughters spoke to us, thus I could be relax. After we reached to his house, we went to his parents' house. It was graceful and splendid. We had dinner together, and it was very delicious! I enjoyed talking about in the future, school, and so on. I felt his family is genial and kind, and it's my ideal family. After I went back to his house, Yuka and I talked to his family. I could have good conversation with them, and at night, the conversation with his daughters grew more lively; therefore we overslept. The next day, we got up around 10 o'clock, and we went shopping with his daughters. I bought body creams and a teddy bear. I thought these body creams were suitable for souvenir! I like fragrance, so I'm collecting perfumes. I bought a teddy bear for the reason that I live in my room alone, and I sometimes feel sad and lonely. I was so happy because I could buy my favorite things. After shopping, Christopher, Yuka and I went to symphony. I heard beautiful sound, and I was very comfortable. The players were absolutely glorious. I like to play music, so it was very fantastic time. I felt as if I were in my dream! Thank you for special weekend!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-09T20:26:00.000-08:00

On Oct. 29th, it was the Halloween party day. From the morning, I saw many costumes because teachers wore costumes in the classes. There are Aladin, E.O. Superman, Minnie Mouse and so on. I had been excited since the morning. However, when I went back home after finishing lunch, it turned out that my roommate, Aki, had fever and had to move to the Whitman Hall, a sick house, right now till she got better. Our group had prepared hard together for this day since a few weeks ago in spite of a lot of homework. She looked very sad, so I was also sad. I just hoped she will feel better soon.

After all classes were finished, we prepared for the party. At the party, there are many cute costumes, but no one wore scary costumes... except for us! Everyone looked at us, and some were scared. We were asked to take pictures of us or with us many times. Many people said to us "Good job!" We danced thriller. I'm a bad dancer, so it took me much more time to remember the dance than any other group mates. Actually, I made mistakes in dancing, but it was successful. I really enjoyed it, so it's OK! I had a wonderful night. It was the first and maybe the last day that I 'm that popular!

When I was young and in America, I experienced Halloween with my family, and when I visited houses saying "Trick or treat!" after the party, it reminded me the memories; my brother wore Ninja turtle costume, and my sister was Donald duck. I was so happy that I could experience Halloween in America again. I think it's one of the greatest American cultures. We should do that in Japan also! However, I was sad to hear that one day a child was killed when he or she visited a house to get some treat on Halloween. It must not happen! I want everyone all over the world to have a happy Halloween. We celebrate Halloween for people who died in the past. We mustn't have more dead people on Halloween.

Happy Halloween!

The Attractive Classes

2009-11-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

We went to many schools this semester. There were a lot of differences between American and Japanese schools.

The students, who were active and lively, were really good . Some students discussed their essays with the teacher or students in the class. It was the same attitude in almost all of the schools that we went to. It was really interesting for me because Japanese schools are different. There are many shy students in Japan who don't ask questions or have discussions with teachers. When we went to the American classes for the first time, I was impressed by the American students. I liked the attitude of American students because it was good for improving our conversation and English skills.

Classroom Observations

2009-11-09T15:33:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite parts of Extension program is classroom observations. I am always surprised at many things and learn a lot all the time.

First of all, I feel super happy because surprisingly, I can understand the classes a lot more than I had been thinking. I am sure that I understand them much better than my French class in Japan. I like lively interactions between the professors and the students, which I've never seen in Japan, because it help students to understand all the time. Also American colleges have many students who have different backgrounds, so everyone can learn about different cultures and the way of thinking which I really think is interesting. Students can open their world.

The other reason I like American education is the friendliness of the professor. I saw many students asking them questions. When I went to SFCC last week, I myself tried to ask the professor about the topic, and we had a great discussion.

I want to observe more about American universities because they are interesting, and I can learn a lot through observations.

School Visits

2009-11-08T15:55:00.000-08:00

We have visited many universities during this term: Gonzaga University, Washington State University, Eastern Washington University, Spokane Falls Community College and New Mexico State University. We learned and felt many things at all visits. Universities in America are really different from universities in Japan.

First, I felt like American university students were more energetic than Japanese students. We attended some classes and observed them. American students frequently asked questions or gave their opinions to teachers. When the teachers asked, “ Do you have any questions?” many students asked questions. I think this doesn’t often happen in classes in Japan. Many students are quiet and seem not to be interested in class. American university students attend classes more eagerly than Japanese university students.

Second, American university students are energetic, but American university teachers are also energetic. Many teachers often asked questions of the students and they tried to get students to understand clearly. They didn't only teach their subject. They asked many questions and requested interesting answers. They seemed to need student’s opinions to continue the class. I thought the relationship between American students and teachers was better than between Japanese students and teachers.

Finally, I felt comfortable in the classes I attended. I attended an Intercultural Communication class at SFCC. It was the first time for me to attend the class, but many students spoke to me. There was even a student who spoke to me in Japanese. I was really nervous and I think I actually looked nervous. They removed my nervous feelings and tried to help me understand the class clearly and enjoy the class. They were really friendly and kind.

I discovered many things in all visits. Every single time I visited a university, I discovered and noticed something. These things make me more energetic.

Class Observations

2009-11-04T16:46:00.000-08:00

It has been very interesting and fresh for me to visit American universities. I have found a lot of new things and had great experiences!

We visited Eastern Washington University. I observed a writing class. I joined students and sat in a seat as they do. I was very nervous because it was the first time that I took a class in the U.S. I just observed the class and felt the atmosphere. In the class, some students had grammar presentations. During those, some students who had questions asked them and sometimes they laughed. It was not cheerful but it was a very good atmosphere. I didn't have opportunities to say anything, but I really enjoyed it.

We also have had class observations at Spokane Fall Community College. I observed a Social Psychology class. It was very interesting. The teacher was great and often gave students opportunities to talk. Also, I was surprised because students were very active. In addition to asking questions, when they had something they wanted to say, they raised their hands and talked one after another. It was a lecture, but like a discussion. I thought I should have understood all they talked about! It was difficult for me to understand the content, but it was a very valuable experience.

Class observations are really exciting and I'm lucky to have had such great experiences!

Class Observation

2009-11-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

This semester, we have a lot of opportunities to attend to the class of university. I was surprised because American classes are very active. When the teacher ask students something, students say their opinion one another after. Conversation between teacher and students didn't stop for beginning of the class to the end of the class. The most interesting class that I have visited was general physiology. It was about human's feeling emotion. Teacher explained very clearly, so I could understand partly. I liked atmosphere of this class because teacher and students gave their examples each other a lot, and then, we could understand what the teacher wants to say. It was very hard to listen to they are speaking for me, but I thought the communication between teacher and students is very important thing!

Trick or Treat★

2009-11-03T22:38:00.000-08:00

Halloween was one precious memories for me. I was looking forward to coming Halloween, so when I was a child, I envied American children because they have Halloween. I enjoyed everything. At first, I bought my costume in North town. There are many costumes, so I was excited to choose my costume. I tried many costumes on in the fitting room but I couldn't choose one of them. Finally, I decided my costume. It is a Snow White costume. It is a so pretty and a fantasy costume!! I like it. My host family invited me to their house on Halloween. I have three host sisters. Only one of them wore a Halloween costume. It made me surprised because I thought every child will wear their original costumes. When I asked them about it, they taught me many children wear their costume but it is not everyone. Almost all of the Americans don't wear Halloween costumes. So when I went to trick or treat with my host sisters I was a little embarrassed because there were only children except us. but I didn't care about it. If I missed this oppotunity, I wouldn't get the oppotunity forever. My host sisters are full of energy, so they ran all over during trick or treating. Since I had to catch up with them, I was so tired. But I had a great experience because of them. I will never forget this memory.

First Halloween★

2009-11-03T21:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!!!

How was your Halloween?：D

It was the first time to participate in American Halloween party! I really wanted to experience American Halloween.

Japanese people know Halloween ,but there is not home party and trick or treat. We just know the day. That's why I really wanted to participate in American Halloween!! I wish Halloween was in Japan.

Actually, I participated in 2 parties, because parties were held at MFWI and my host family's house.

On November 29th, the Halloween party was held at MFWI campus. After class, most students went back to their dorm quickly.

At 7 p.m, When I reached to the party hall, I was surprised because everybody changed nicely!!

During the party, some groups performed great dance!! We enjoyed the party dancing and eating and taking so many pictures. Also, RA start the dance that most of them know! I don't know the dance, but I could join it easily. the dance like, listen the song and it said "step forward","clap hands!""jump!"or something like this. I guess it was not the Halloween dance, but many people enjoyed the dance!!

After the party, we did trick or treat:D I was so happy, because I wanted to do that!! Maybe I was like a little kid:)haha

Another party was absolutely awesome!!! One of my friends Yuka invited me to the party that held by her host family because I met them twice in last semester: ) Also Yuka's roommate Tomomi was invited the party. I was so happy because it was great opportunity to experience a real American Halloween party!!

Host Mother Teri cooked Big Pumpkin Pot. It was hollowed inside, and there is a minced meat, pumpkin, onion and cream sauce. We made faces on the pumpkin by using carrot and one of spice. It looks so cute and it was so delicious. I don't know that is traditional food or not, but it looks like traditional food. One of Teri's friend made snacks, it looks like bone!! She made it by marshmallows and thin pretzels and white chocolate! It was so delicious! Yuka, Tomomi and I couldn't stop eating! We ate lots of Halloween foods:)

During the party, there were trick or treaters:) We gave them some snacks when they said "Trick or Treat." When kids didn't say it, we said "What do you say:D" and then, they said it★ they were so cute!!! They brought pillowcase instead of the basket!!!haha I just heard some children bring pillowcase, but I didn't expect. However, I saw some kids brought pillowcase and I was knocked out by cute pillowcase and the kids!haha They were sooooooo cute!!:D

Then, We played the game. It was like, get the marbles by using own fingers of foot. The marble were in the super cold water!! There were so many ices in the water. We had to grab the marbles from the water as much as we can! All of visitors did it, but they couldn't grab many marbles because of cold!! Finally, a girl won. She got 82 marbles within 40sec!haha

After the game, we watched "Thriller." It seems custom of their Halloween!:D

I really enjoyed real American Halloween party!!! I Could experience a lot. We prepared for the party, ate Halloween food, Felt atmosphere. I appreciate Yuka's host family and this opportunity!

Thanks★★

The First Halloween!

2009-11-03T19:30:00.000-08:00

I experienced this Halloween twice. This Halloween was the first time for me.

The first Halloween was at Commons last Thursday. I was Little Red Riding Hood. I took a long time to memorize the name... It's a long name! It means AKAZUKIN in Japanese.

Anyway, I had never gone to a Halloween party, so I was very excited!

Attendees costumes were really nice. I wanted to be more gorgeous like them.

One group members were zombies and they danced with Thriller song. It was great!!! I wanted to give them a prize! They really looked like Zombies.

I really enjoyed the party.

The second one was with Yoshimi, my host mother, her children and her brother's family.

I wore a Pikachu costume because it's popular for children.

Although I went to trick or treat with them, Yoshimi and I didn't join them. We just watched with their parents. We thought Halloween was only for children and we were too old!!

That's why we couldn't get candies and chocolates. After that, the children shared their chocolates with us.

Recently, we don't know about our neighborhoods very well. I thought Halloween was a good opportunity to communicate with them.

However, I was surprised and a little shocked on this Halloween.

Their parents started checking their candies. At first, I didn't understand.

Then my parents told us the reason that someone put bad things into children's candies before, so checking them was a very imortant job for them.

I understood parents also was important for their children.

They were very kind and also their parents were kind and polite.

My host mother often said be nice and share with Yuko and Yoshimi and often talked to us. She was a good mother.

Anyway, I enjoyed this Halloween heartily! However, I was shocked! When I came back to my house, my group member also went to trick or treat and got many many chocolates and candies.

If I can go to trick or treat again, I will try to get them!!

The Creepy Doraemon Was Coming to Your House!

2009-11-03T17:16:00.000-08:00

I wanted to be born as an American child because of Halloween. We can get many candies, wear unique costumes every year, and it is the special day once a year.

I went to home stay on Halloweekend for 3 days. On Friday night, my host family held a party at my host father's company. Many people was coming there, so it was very big party. On Sunday, Halloween, I experienced a real trick or treating. Then, I had kid's spirit during it.

Please look at the picture. A blue person that faced the bottom is me. It's so strange. I am only 152 cm tall, so I'm small, but the me of the picture looks so big and like an old strange man. Perhaps, many people that were trick or treating thought strange about me. It was kind of embarrassing even childish of me.

I asked for my host mother "how old are people when they stop trick or treating?". She answered that aroud 14 years old. Then, she said that definetely I was kind of childish for American usual 19 year-old girl, but also I was innocent. In fact, Mukogawa girls was excited trick or treating as if they are children. Maybe, our behavour is too strange for American, but also we don't forget kid's spirit and are innocent.

Ties by Halloween

2009-11-02T20:39:00.000-08:00

Halloween is the important day in America. First, many people dress up. That is like a big festival. Many American people, not only children but also adults, enjoy this day. They connect with each other. Secondly, many children walk around neighbors to get many candies. That makes good friendship. Many American people are very friendly, because this festival makes them closer to each other. The neighbors welcome children very warmly. That makes ties or trust between them. Also, the children can become more pure, because they can enjoy trick or treat sincerely. Also, I enjoyed trick or treat as if I were a little child. I got many chocolates. Finally, many houses are decorated. They are perfect. Many people get down to preparing Halloween seriously, as if they told the tradition to people in the future. Some people prepare for Halloween from one months ago. Each country is made by the tradition. People must contine to tell it endlessly.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-02T16:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!!!

Our group's theme was Thriller of Michel Jackson!!

We talked which is the best group costumes or personal

costumes. We thought group costume can show our

coopration,so we decided to wear group costumes.

And we wanted to dance thriller.

Then Zombie is very fun and cool. That's why we decided on this costume.

My friend Takako was Michael Jackson and others were Zombies. We took a

long time to be Zombies because we had to tear our costumes and we had to make up our faces.

What's more, we practiced Thriller many times. It was very hard for us. But we enjoyed

to dance. When I went to the common's hall, I was really surprised because there were

only people who wearing cute or sexy clothes. I thought there are many people who

wore costumes of Zombies or scary clothes,so we were distinguished very much!! At first, I felt ashamed

because my face was terrible and many students looked at us. I was jealous of them because they wore

very cute costumes. But gradually, we began to have confidence because no one wore such scary

clothes and make up, so we are special!!! I thought it is a very good oppotunity because maybe I have

no oppotunity to wear like this costume any more, so I didn't regret to wear this costume. Of course, all

of my group mate thought same things.Many junior colleges or education students asked me to

take picture with them.I felt like a star!!! This is one of the reasons why I could have confidence

about my face and costume. When our dance started, I was really surprised because I didn't think

we will dance such a big stage. I was very confused and as I expected, I made some mistakes in our dance.

But it is ok because I could enjoy a lot. I think enjoying something is the most important thing.

After finished the party, we did trick or treat!!! It was the first time that I did it, so I was

very excited. I thought I love American culture afresh because there is no Halloween

in Japan. That's boring. I want to do it in Japan, so I decided to start to do Halloween

party in Japan. I enjoyed very much.

Midnight Story

2009-11-02T06:10:00.000-08:00

It was after midnight, and I was alone in the house, when suddenly...

I heard strange sounds like laughing, so I went to the place where the sounds happened. It was too quiet to go alone, so I brought a light. I heard a strong window's sound and on the way I met a girl. I wondered why she was there alone. She kept quiet and then, she disappeared! She went upstairs where I had never seen before. I had just moved into the house yesterday, so I didn't really know about the place very much. I thought she was going to the bathroom and I wanted to talk with her because I didn't have any friends in this town, yet. If she is kind, I thought we could be friends, so I waited for her. However, she never came back down the stairs. The next day, I told my family about the mystery, but they didn't believe me. My sister said, "Maybe you were half asleep." But I was really awake. The next day I heard a rumor about the house. Before, a rich person owned it, but his company went bankrupt, so he sold the house and moved. Only the daughter didn't want to move. She stayed in that big, old house until finally, it fell into ruin. Nobody knows what happened to her. This is a very old story, so if the girl I saw was the daughter, she must not be human any longer. I tried to meet her again, but I still haven't seen her. In my opinion she must be married to the house, and appears on her anniversary once a year.

I couldn't sleep, so I went downstairs to get some coffee. Only I was in the house, so it was very silent. I was drinking coffee when someone rang the doorbell. It was after midnight, so I wondered who would come and visit. I went to the entry, but no one was there. Only a box was on the floor. I checked the box carefully and slowly opened it. In the box was a sad looking and old doll with a letter inside. The letter said, "Hello. I want to meet you. Maybe you are drinking coffee now. I know everything about you. Do you know who I am? I am not a person, but I have watched and loved you for many years." The letter ended here. I couldn't remember this old doll at all. I have no memory to play with this doll because my family was poor, so they never bought me any toys. Moreover, I have no siblings, so I was confused. I went into my house again, but there was no light. I felt very scared and went into the livingroom. Suddenly, I heard a big 'crack'! The room became very bright and I heard, "Happy Birthday!" There were my parents and they were smiling. "Are you surprised? Go back to the entrance and check again." I went back and there was another box with another doll. This one was cute and new. It was a birthday present from my parents.

I remembered that I didn't finish my homework. I had to hand it in the next day, but I had misunderstood the deadline. I was upset. What should I do? I was still in bed. It is winter now, so I didn't want to get out of my bed. It was too comfortable. However, I want to keep being a good student, so I decided to do my homework. I had to take my notebook from my bg but it's very troublesome, so I decided to use the ruler which was on the table near my bed to grab the notebook. However, my arms are too short to get it even if I used the ruler, so I tried to change something longer. Then I heard a voice, but it was too weak a voice, so it was difficult to hear it. What I could catch was just, "No...Help....Kill..." I was so upset, and I couldn't stay in my bed. I jumped up and ran to my parents' room. They were not there, so I ran to my brother's room. But he wasn't there, either! I became really scared. I went to the living room to find my family. Suddenly, all the electrical appiances went off, so it was really dark. I really paniced! Then the livingroom door opened and I heard, "Happy Halloween!" All of my family said to me, and they brought a nice cake. The had planned it that they would surprise me. I was very scared, but now it is a good memory.

I became hungry, so I went to the kitchen to get some snacks. When I got a piece of cake, the TV turned on, and the screen on the TV was just snow. I was surprised and I screamed. I wanted to turn off the the TV and I looked for the remote, then suddenly the lights started flickering. I couldn't move because I was so scared. Then the refridgereator door opened and closed , the knife and forks made sounds, also some books.

Cultural Observation

2009-11-02T04:46:00.000-08:00

The Southwest trip was awesome!I ate lots of Mexican foods especially vegetables or cheese. What Christopher said Native Americana foods are healthy was right I think.

Altough too much is always not good for us.

Anyway, the most impressive thing for me was the languages we heard these days. Some students might recognize though, I could hear Spanish somewhere each day. I was very surprised. Since I have come to America, I had never heard it anywhere. I learned about Hispanic in junior high school "They are many and speak Spanish." I had thought it was a wrong information, but it was not.

I could hear Spanish from a radios, TVs, and many people live in Southwest. It was when I thought this was we were eating lunch at the University of New Mexico. Did you hear what clerk was saying? They were speaking Spanish! We never hear Spanish or the other language except English or Japanese in Japan, so I felt great difference between America and Japan, and also Washington and Southwest. Timothy said he was in California, so he could hear and see many Spanish word at advertisement or commercial. Then I imagined it was like English in Japan. However it was not, because America has mixed culture. It means there are many kinds of native speakers in a country. It is not like English which has subject in Japan. Complete sentences as a native speaker has were around there.

It was amazing!

Bunkanohi

2009-11-01T21:24:00.000-08:00

November 3rd is Culture Day.

This day was established as the national holiday Bunka no hi. The meaning is " the love of freedom, peace and the promotion of culture." It was also on the day that the Japanese constitution was proclaimed, so we celebrate the day.

Do you do something on the day?

I don't do special things in Japan on the Bunkanohi, but now, I am in America.

To use this opportunity, I'll teach Kendo,which is Japanese traditional swordplay to American children in this year. I'm looking forward to teaching because it is a good chance to communicate with people who are from other countries. Actually, even if I am Japanese I have a lot of things I don't know about Japanese culture. I think it's also a good time to learn my country's culture well.

I want people to know what is Japanese culture. For example, Kendo needs a lot of concentration. They have to gather when their opponent comes or when they should go. Some Japanese get endurance from Kendo.

I'll try to tell the Japanese culuture to children and I'm glad if they will be interested in Japan.

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T20:46:00.000-08:00

The Halloween Party was absolutely exciting! It was the first time to participate in the Halloween Party as we don’t celebrate it in Japan. It was a wonderful day that remained in my memories.

Our group members decided to dress up as zombies about 3 weeks ago, and also started to dance thriller like Michael Jackson did. I love to dance for the reason that I belonged to dance club when I was a high school student. I’m not a good dancer, however I like to create original dancing. Takako was so creative, so I relied on her. She and I taught thriller and rests of our group members memorized dancing. We practiced it every night, so we spent very fun time for a week. One day, we knew that another group also would dance thriller. That was surprising for us, and we thought good way to dance together and then we could exchange with JC, and we made one dance together. It was supreme work, and it was my best memory. It was nervous for me to dance in front of people, but I really enjoyed dancing with my group members! I was pleasant because lots of people praised us after we danced.

We made costumes by ourselves. I dressed up as the patient zombie. My imagination was the patient, who died because of tuberculosis. I was very surprised after I put on my makeup. My face was very scary as if I put on a mask. I cut a T-shirt and a pants, and painted them. I could make patient clothes easily. My favorite zombie’s clothes was wedding dress. I had never seen such a horrible and funny dress!

During the party, everyone didn’t notice who I am because my face was painted. I shed blood from my mouth. The people who saw me were frightened! It was very interesting. My group members were remarkable, and people took pictures with us! I was really happy because I felt we became popular! To our regret, one of my group members couldn’t participate in the party, but we have the chance to wear the costume and dance again because our RA plans to dance, so I’m looking forward to dancing again! She will invite her friends and we will show our dancing, so we will practice and improve it from now. Yeah!!!

★Halloween★

2009-11-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

The Halloween Party took place on October 29.Everyone's costumes are very nice!! Our group costume is Greek Gods. I was God of Sun and music. Everyone took charge of different gods, for example, love, sea, wine, God of war. I dressed up for the first time. We bought all stuff at Walmart. There are a lot of halloween goods in Walmart. There are also stores that is prepared for Halloween at Northtown.These store had ax with blood, the cloak, the witch clothes,mask,and so on. I could see many people who chose their costume at that place. They have a lot of stuff in their cart. Then,we made our costume by ourselves. However, as we decided our costume and bought some stuff on Sunday, we didn't have a lot of time to make these, so we used tutorial time. We still made until the party started. We made the god clothes from sheets. One of my group members sewed sheets. And then, I made a crown of sunflowers with my friend. Although we bought fake flowers, there are wires in a stalk of sunflower, so it was very difficult to make round shape. Everyone made own parts clothes. On this day, my RA did everyone's making up.She is good at putting on make up. My god is sun so, she put spangle on my face. My face was so shiny. By the way, I was impressed G15's costume. Their's costume looks like zombie.s When I saw them, I couldn't recognized who are they. I was very surprised!! They were so scary!!! They also did thriller dance. It was very cool!! Anyway, I really enjoyed the Halloween party★ Now, I'm looking forward to spending time with my hostfamily on Thanksgiving day! I can experience more new American custom than I did last semester: )

We Were In South West!

2009-10-31T09:50:00.000-07:00

I went to the South West trip for one week. It was the first time to visit South West, and I couldn't imagine how the south west is, even I studied about the South West a lot.

At first, I was impressed by their structure. In the South West, almost all structure are adobe style and the sky was large, so it was very beautiful!

Second, I was well impressed by nature. The weather was warm at that time, so there are a lot of trees. I especially like the plase where I went to were the Painted Desert and the Grand Canyon. The Painted Desert was wilderness where the color is changing. Becouse of the sunshine. When I visited there, I couldn't see the changing, but the color was beautiful. In the South West, they said the earth color is pink. I've never heard that, so I wondered about that. However, I could understand why the earth color is pink finally. The boundary between the sky and land were completely pink! I was amasing when I saw it, and I think that I can't see in Japan. I can't see it even in Spokane where are more green than Japan.

The Grand Canyon was tremendous! I sometime saw it on TV, but the fact wasn't to be compared with TV. I coudn't find the word to explain the Grand Canyon. I was very glad to see it. In this trip, I could a lot of experiences and I touched nature and history and so on. I can't forget these experience. Never! I want to see another countries and culture more. Therefore, I'll study English hard!

My Southwest Trip

2009-10-26T07:42:00.000-07:00

I had lots of fun in the Southwest trip. I have been impressed by delicious food, people that spoke to me in a friendly way everywhere, grandeur of nature in Southwest, for example, Grad Canyon, a variety of Pueblo, the painted desert, and some museums etc. during the trip. I could realize that "How big America is!" through this trip, so some day, I'm going to visit Southwest again with someone, maybe my family.

I was also surprised at many languages that I heard people speaking! There were so many languages in SW, for instance Spanish, of course English, French, Korean, and Japanese. One reason about so many languages in SW is that SW must be famous as sightseeing, so a lot of people from everywhere in the world visit W, but its reason also comes from the history of America. In the other words, almost all of Americans have come form other countries, especially, in regions of Europe, so it is easier for people to go to America than the other regions, but it is just my opinion, so I'm not sure...

By the way, I was absolutely shocked at that one country has many languages. We also learn English in Japan, but we are limited to the place that we can practice English, so we can't use it anywhere in Japan. We have to go to specific places to speak English, for example, a kind of urban city(Umeda, Sannomiya etc.) and English conversation schools and so on. However, America is different from Japan. They can practice a various languages commonly.

On the sixth day, my group ate dinner with Jill in the cafeteria. Then a member of the French group that lined up to buy food tried to take Megumi's French fries in secret. It might have been an opportunity to talk with them. Jill looked so happy when she spoke to them, so I asked her the reason, and she said,"I'm happy to be able to have opportunities to speak French. ". In America, people can have opportunities to speak other languages excepting English. It's a good point of American diversity.

AWESOME!

2009-10-26T01:18:00.000-07:00

When I arrived at Grand Canyon, I noticed the excellence of human eyes. Grand Canyon was so beautiful that I forgot to take animation there. My memory of it is better by far than my pictures. It was very wide and magnificent. When all of us kept quiet, I felt that I was in the another world. One of my friends said, "I want to be swallowed up in Grand Canyon." I was surprised, because her words might give expression to our feelings. If people keep quiet, it is so calm there. Some people say we can hear the sound of earth. It was pity that I couldn't. I wanted to stay there all day long. I thought the view always changed. It depends on time, weather, spot and every factor.

On the next day, we went anywhere freely. We were extremely excited. We saw a lot of travelers at Grand Canyon. They were interested in talking to us. We probably looked like just children for them. I saw at least French and Korean tour group. Grand Canyon fascinates people all over the world. My teacher said to me, "When you see Grand Canyon, you will cry. You will notice human is very very small in front of nature." My mother said, "I really envy you. If I were healthy, I would go there someday." I want to go back to Grand Canyon with my family if I can, but it may be impossible, so I bought a lot of souvenirs.

This trip was greatly educational. I really think I was so lucky to go South West Trip my friends and teachers.

South West Trip

2009-10-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Hello.Last week I went South West with my friend and teachers. I enjoyed traveling South West very much.It was my first time to travel there. The view of South west was fantastic. I especially like Painted Desert and Grand Canyon.

When I saw the Painted Desert,I was moved by the beauty of the scenery.I was surprised because it had many kinds of beautiful colors,and I heard the colors vary with the weather and seasons. I thought I really wanted to go and see different colors.

I also enjoyed looking at the view of Grand Canyon. I couldn't express my feeling with my words. I saw billions of stars at night. In Japan, there were no places to look at stars near my house. I have never seen such a beautiful sky.It was surprising view. I also liked the view in the afternoon. When I was looking at the view, I always felt freedom.

The South West Trip became one of my special memories in my life. I was glad to special memories and to spend time with my friends. I will never forget this trip!

My South West Trip!

2009-10-25T18:27:00.001-07:00

I went to the South West Trip for one week with Extension Students and Teachers. It was my first time to go to South West in U.S.A. It was amazing!

I went to many places during trip. I went to Acoma Pueblo, Elementaly School, Pueblo Cultural Center, Old Town, University of New Mexico, Chapel, some museum, Wupatki and Grand Canyon! I can't write everyting. These places were very different from Spokane or Japan. Buildings were Adobe style, not high buildings. Most of the colors were blown.

My favorite place is Wupatki National Monument because it is mysterious place. I always wondered that "How did people live here?" Also, I thought that I wanted to study about this building and Wupatki people. I like a plece which has mystic atmospehere. It makes me exciting! If I have a time to study about the place and people, I will do it.

Grand Canyon was also one of my special places. It was fabulous! I was very impressed when I arrived there. A teacher said to us "Please be quiet for 4 minutes.You can feel wind, voice of the earth or something." Then, we did it. During this time, I came to naught. I couldn't think anything. It was very good time to be in vain.

The extension program is very hard to study English. I always be pressed for time so, I have my overcrowded mind. I could relax during this trip and Grand Canyon made me clean. I think that I can take a step forward.

SWT is very good memory for me. I will never forget this memories.

Southwest Trip

2009-10-25T16:43:00.000-07:00

October 25, 2009

Southwest Trip

Hi. I was very excited and interested and happy during the Southwest trip. I learned a lot of American history, culture, art, etc. Above all, the most impressive memory was the sun set at Grand Canyon.

When I looked at the sun set at Grand Canyon, I couldn't say anything. I only felt the wonders of nature. I thought that human beings are very smaller than nature, so we should respect it. The view made me calm. Then I deeply thought about my parents, friends, life, etc. It was a good opportunity for me.

The experience will be the one of the important event in my life. I can't forget this trip. I thought that I must thank people around me through the Southwest trip. And I studied many things about America, so I want to put these things to good account. I had a really wonderful time!

Fantastic SouthWest trip!

2009-10-25T16:13:00.001-07:00

I went to South West trip from October 12th to 18th. We went to Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Arizona. I had been looking forward to travelling this trip so much. I had the valuable experience with my friends and teachers. I could see very beautiful views, eat delicious food a lot, and learn each history.

There are many favorite places.
First, it is a Georgia O'Keeffe museum. I was impressed her paintings because it was written beautifully, artistic, and individually. She was written flowers and skulls. Her paintings made me stir.

Second, it is Grand Canyon. It is very beautiful and enormous, so I was very fascinated.
When I saw it, I couldn't nothing to say because I have never seen like this fabulous view, so I was just looking at the time. When I arrived at the hotel near Grand Canyon, I walked and to see sunset. I was moved so much and took pictures a lot. When we return to the our room, we saw a number of stars and milky way. They made us happy more. Unfortunately, I couldn't see shooting stars. Some students and teachers said saw them, so I envied them. I also could see sunrise because I got up early about five o'clock. It was also wonderful. Next day, we had free time, so we had gone to see Grand Canyon deeply. What we surprised at there, we saw Caravan.We are very excited because of it.
I bought souvenirs a lot such as post cards, calender, glass, and T-shirt related Grand Canyon.

Third, it is Acom school. I had looking forward to visiting there and talking with the students.
We ate lunch with them. They were so cute! I talked a few students. They seemed interested in us. After lunch, we could take each grade's class. I took four grade class. I had five students. What I surprised so much, they were written a letter and read it for me. I was so happy. We talked each other a lot about hobby, food, event, and so on. After that, I taught how to fold the crane with origami. They seemed difficult to make it, but when we completed it, they were pleased. I had wonderful time. When I had to return, they seemed very sad. Of course, I also was very sad.

I will never forget this fantastic trip. I want to show many pictures to my friends and family.

Great Trip

2009-10-24T02:04:00.000-07:00

Friday, October 23, 2009
Great Trip

I had been to Southwest from October 12 to 18.It was my first time to visit there. I saw mamy different views in there from Spokane. We really enjyoed them. Then I had wonderful time. Especially, I enjoyed seeing a sunrise.

We got up early to see a sunrise on Grand Canyon. Since we wake up early, I could see shooting stars and a beautiful sunrise. In spkane, I often look up night sky and there are a lot of stars, but I had never seen a shooting star. I was looking forward to seeing them. We also saw a sunset, but sadly I could not see them. That's way then I could see it, I was so impressed and yelled. It was also my first time to see them. They are bigger than I expected. I had no time to pray my wish. I will never forget these shooting stars as long as I live. I wanted to show them for my families and friends. However I could not explain them in my few words. Seeing them are so lucky.

Before the rise of the sun, there were cold and I didn't bring my breakfast. Therefore I was hungry but my friends and teacher gave me some foods. It was delicious, especially the foods that I ate on the Grand Canyon. The rise of the sun is amazing and very beautiful. It is quick to rise. Suddenly, tere were became bright and warm because it rose. It is fantastic. I am so glad to see such a nice view.

My firt experiesnces!

2009-10-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

From October 12th to 19th, I went to South West Trip with my friends and teachers. I t was my first time to visit there, everything was new and I made a lot of good memories. I especially liked three places.

First, we visited Acoma school. All students welcomed us very much. I ate lunch with some of the students. They Spoke to me a lot and their smile made me happy. They asked me about Japan and i taught them. I was pleased because they were interested in Japanese culture. They listened to me very carefully. After lunch, we went outside. All of them tried to grip my hands. When we arrived outside, all the students in the ground started to run toward for me. I was like a heroine! When I leave them, their faces looked so sad. I couldn't forget their face and the time with there. It was very short time, but the experience was so valuable for me. I thought communicating with people made me happy!

Second, I was very impressed by Grand Canyon. It was huge, beautiful, magnificent,,,,,,,I can't explain with my poor words! Anyway, it was marvelous and mysterious sight. We saw it in the morning, daytime, evening, and night. Each view was different and I could find how big nature is! I took a lot of pictures there, but picture can't tell us the beautiful sight. I wanted my family and friends in Japan to see it together. At the night, some of my friends and I looked up the sky. It was filled with a large number of stars. We also could see the Milky Way and shooting stars. Under the sky, we talked about our dream, life in Spokane, friends, and love. We thought about not only our surround but also ourselves. Sometimes we talked nothing, just looked up the beautiful sky. This was my special time for me to think about myself and spent time with my friends. I will never forget the sight of Grand Canyon and the night looking up the sky with my friends.

Third, I was surprised at the size of cactus. It was much bigger than us. When I stood next to the cactus, I touched it without thinking. I cried in pain because the thorn stuck in my hands! I forgot that had a lot of thorns. Anyway, I liked it because the appearance was so cool. I wanted small cactus for me. Instead of bring it to my dormitory, I took a lot of pictures. I like the picture above. I will show it to my family. They must be surprised at the size and I think they like it.

In the South West, we went to a lot of places and experienced a lot. These memories are special for me. I was very happy to visit there with my good friends and teachers!

The World Scenery !!

2009-10-23T19:23:00.000-07:00

We took a trip to New Mexico and Arizona for one week and we had a lot of new experiences. Everything I saw was fresh and I took time to perceive those places were also in America, and I could not help feeling the spread of the world.

The first thing that I was surprised by was every building was Adobe style, so I learned the traditional culture immediately. I was surprised that they have to use adobe to build the house or shops under the law, but I realized that they protect the native culture and they are proud of them.

In the evening, we tried to watch a sunset on Grand Canyon. I really liked the color of the sky! In the afternoon, there are no clouds and a very clear sky blue, but it became orange gradually. We can see sunsets in Japan, but I've never stared at the sunset and I wasn't moved very much even if I saw it. That's why I was shocked and impressed by the magnificent scenery. The sunset was beautiful but it had a little desolate landscape for the end of the day. One of the reasons I felt happy was that I watched the sunset on the Grand Canyon. The orange color spread over a vast open space! Before Iwent on this trip,I didn't make a plan to watch the sunrise, but I had no hesitation in going to see the sunrise.

Therefore, I woke up at 4 A.M and I had one more lucky thing. I could see a lot of shooting stars. It's the first time for me to seeing shooting stars and the Milky Way. How romantic they were! I wanted to look at the amazing clear stars forever.
It was too beautiful that I sometime looked up the sky even if I was walking.
My home town is the country and I also can watch beautiful stars, but I was surprised the difference of scale. I learned how important to protect the global environment and I really wish we can watch such a romantic stars in Japan.

I imagined that the sunset and the sunrise looked similar. However it's totaly different. Sunrise was light and shiny color and I watched the contrast. They had pink,yellow,and light blue. In addition the sky has energy and it gave us power!

On this trip, I feel real nature and I could see the scenery which we can't feel in Japan. Everything was my precious experience and I never forget the impression I felt.

!!!Marvelous Southwest Trip!!!

2009-10-23T01:26:00.000-07:00

I went to The Southwest from October 12 to 18.

I went to New Mexico and Arizona. There were a lot of differences from Washington State and Southwest . For example, temperature, house style, pronunciation, foods. During the trip, it was very good weather and high temperature. I wonder when does this area become cold. I thought it was still summer season. I regreted not bringing a T-shirt and suntan lotion.

The house style was very very different. It was called Adobe style. I think it looks like cookies. There were a lot of cute houses. I like Adobe style!!

The pronunciation was so different!! It was hard for me to listen to the people's pronunciation, so I was shocked! I think it is a bad thing to listen to the only one 's area pronunciation. I thought I have to listen to many area's English.

The foods is so good. I love spicy and hot food. I like food of southwest! I ate taco, tortilla . I also like beans, so this area's food fit me!!

Then, best place is the Grand Canyon! Before I went on this trip, I'm really looking forward to going to Grand Canyon! It was so so so beautiful! When I saw the sight for the first time, I was so moved that I got goose bumps. I wasn't bored when I saw the sight. I also enjoyed the different Grand Canyon sights that changed time to time. In the morning, I can see red and brown colors. In the afternoon, I can see green and blue and white colors. In the evening, I can see pink and purple colors. It was an interesting thing! Especially, I like the evening sights the best!!! The starry sky was also beautuful! I can see a lot of stars and shooting stars!

In this way, I really really enjoyed this trip!! If I can go to the southwest, I want to go again! So, probably, I have to save money from now on!!;*)

FABULOUS SOUTH WEST TRIP!!☆

2009-10-22T22:56:00.000-07:00

Our first trip in this semester was the SOUTH WEST! Actually, at first, I didn't have idea about the South West. I didn't know where the Southwest is and what kinds of things are favorite in Southwest. However when I visited the South West, I could understand about the South West and learned a lot of things about it.

We met Native American children ,visited some museums, visited famous churches, visited world Heritage Sites, and ate poular food in the south west, like tacos, beans, corns, tortilla, and kabob. Most days, I ate at least 1 tacos during this trip!

One of greatest memories of this trip is visiting Santa Fe. We could see adobe style houses. Those are cute. At the Plaza, there are many street stalls at the museum which was used as a city hall. We could try to lower the prices. It was a great experience and good opportunity to speak with Native Americans.

Another greatest memory is the Grand Canyon! We stayed there for 2 days, and experienced a lot of things! the first day at the Grand Canyon, we saw the sunset at the cliff of the Grand Canyon. It was so beautiful. We noticed that colors on the surface of the Grand Canyon was changing gradually. It shows a lot of colors. one of the colors, pink is considered "Earth Color " by Native Americans. In Japan, we never think about pink is "earth color," because we can't see pink covered Earth surface. However at the Grand Canyon, we understood pink is Earth color, because Grand Canyon changed pink during sunset. Also, when we visited the Painted Desert, we saw pink covered Earth! We thought pink is important for Native Americans.

Also, we could see very beautiful stars at the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon's altitude is very high. It means we could see stars nearer. We could see lots and lots of stars, and lots of the beautiful Milky Way and lots of shooting stars! I have never seen such very beautiful stars!! I

felt as if I were in the planetarium!! I think Grand Canyon is the best place to see stars in the world!

In order to see the beautiful sky, I got out my room with my roomie and lied down at the front of our cottage at almost midnight with some friends. When we saw the shooting star, we were very excited!! We talk a lot, and were enjoying our youth. Also next morning I woke up at 4:45 and got out of my room again, in order to see shooting stars. I could see many more shooting stars than the last night! The face of sky wasn't the same as the last night. Both of skies were absolutely gorgeous!

I will never forget this sky and stars and the Grand Canyon!!!!
I think this trip was very massive. I remember every single day!!!

What a Great Trip !

2009-10-22T22:54:00.000-07:00

Today, I would like to talk about the South West trip. I went to New Mexico and Arizona on the trip. It was absolutely fabulous!! I will never forget this nice trip, and it make me notice the differences from Japan and South West. First, the sky of South West was absolutely fabulous. I had never seen such a deep blue sky when I was in Japan. It was magnificent and beautiful, and there were no clouds. We can't see it in Japan because many building and bad weather prevent us from looking up at the sky. Japanese people look busy all the time because they are pushed for time and their job filled every minute of every days, so they have no time to look up at the sky. Second, people in South West look like they enjoy their life, because they can use their time very well. For example, I saw many people enjoy individual activities. They don't get confused about different things from others. But Japanese really hate it because they like to do same things as everyone. People in the South West were very active, talkative and free. It is one of my favorite things in America. The best memory of this trip is to hike the Grand Canyon. I walked whole of Grand Canyon with my teacher and friend. It took us about six hours to finish walking to the end, so after that, my face turned red because of sunburn. I was embarrassed, but now I think it is a good memory for me. And I can get many beautiful views. It reminded me of how tiny I am, and it made me forget a constant worry. Japanese care about many thing all the time, so Grand Canyon is very popular place to visit for Japanese. If you had a long vacation, you should go to South West. It will make you notice how tiny your worry is.

My Wonderful Time:D

2009-10-22T22:39:00.000-07:00

I enjoyed the Southwest trip very much^^
Everything was new for me because it's New Mexico!
I know it is one of the parts of America but it seemed so
different from America especially food and buildings
I will talk about some of my favorite places.

First, I liked the Plaza. Because I could see many kinds of street stalls. It was the first time to see them. I had seen them only on the TV before. That's why I was really interested in them.

Second, I enjoyed the visit to the Acoma school. My class was 1st grade students. They were so cute^^ They didn't know anything about Japan before I went to there, so it seemed they were very interested in us. One of them said to me " I want to learn Japanese when I became older and I want to go to Japan to meet you!" This made me very happy. I had a great time there with them.

Third, my favorite place is of course the Grand Canyon!!! It was so beautiful!!!
I had seen it on TV many times in Japan, so I couldn't believe I were there at first.
It was bigger than my expectation. I was surprised at the size because people
who walked the bottom of the Grand Canyon looked like the size of ants!! I was overwhelmed
by the giant rocks. When I saw the sunset and sunrise, I felt the beauty of them.
I had never seen such a beautiful view before, so I was impressed.
What's more, I could see shooting stars for the first time. It was so awsome!!!
I can't explain my feeling only a few words. I want to show them to my family and friends.

Finally, I found some differences between Southwest and Northwest. When I went to
Acoma school, there were many students who has tan skin. I didn't see the students who
has white color skin. And sometimes they spoke spanish, so I was very surprised!!
Another different things that I found is buildings. Most buildings were Adobe style.
Before I went there, I thought some buildings are Adobe style, so not all buildings.
I was amazed when I saw them. But I was very happy that I could see different style of
buildings from North west.

I had many precious experiences there with all extension students and my teachers.
Everything that I did is my great memories. I think it was really good for me to join this
program. And I really appreciate that I can meet all extension students and my sweet
teachers. I will never forget these memories. Thank you for everything. I love all Extension
students and teachers^^

Exquisite Memory in My Life

2009-10-22T22:22:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful 7 days with extension program members on the South West Trip. First of all, I enjoyed eating Mexican food very much!! I love tacos, so I ate them, many times. However, I’m not tired of it still now. I miss it.

My best memory of SWT is the Grand Canyon. When we saw it for the first time, I was astonished because of majestic and spectacular views. Then, I shed a tear instinctively as if it was spellbinding to me. I saw 2 sunrises and sunsets. When we saw the first sunrise, we got up at around 4 o’clock a.m. and left for a bus stop with 2 teachers, a bus driver, and 12 students. The sun rise was glorious and spiritual, so I was moved so much. After that, two of them and I hiked all the trail about 12km for 5 to 6 hours. On the way, we had to walk very carefully because of walking near the edge of cliffs. It was a kind of adventure. We stayed many places a few minutes and gazed at the magical views, then, we were surprised every time, and hiked again. After hiking, we went to a good hotel to eat lunch and tasty deserts, an art museum, and a supermarket. Then, it was the time to go to see the sunset, so I went to a bus stop without taking a rest. The sunset was the second time to see it, but it was dazzling to me again. The following day was the last day of SWT. I got up early again and went to see the sunset with some people. It was also pretty. I will never forget these magnificent memories forever. I really appreciate my parents giving those opportunities.
Thank you for everything and everyone!!!!

Southwest Culture

2009-10-22T21:11:00.000-07:00

Pueblo Native Americans have 19 tribes, and they speak some different languages like Tiwa, Tewa, Zuni and so on. For example, people in Acoma, where I visited, speak Zuni. I think it's kind of like Japanese prefecture and dialects, but each of Native Americans and Japanese people have a main language, English and Japanese. However, there are not any clans in Japan although people in Acoma have clans like eagle, corn and so on in the tribe. I was surprised to know that people who are from the same clan are like a family, so they can't marry each other. Japanese people can marry anyone who they love. If people love someone who is from the same clan in Acoma, what will they do? Will they give up him or her? It sounds sad to me. I want to marry the person who I love, and I want everyone to marry the person who they love. I think that people should or even must marry the person who they love, but it's one of the cultures of Native Americans.

However, in other parts of America, mostly people don't have any clans as Japanese people don't have. Even in the same "America", there are some different cultures although it seems kind of like clan that a Christian has to marry another Christian. Anyway, how interesting it is!

I learned a lot of new things on this Southwest trip. I noticed that there are many different cultures, languages and people in the world. This finding makes my view wider and myself more mature.

My Dream

2009-10-22T21:09:00.000-07:00

I have a dream. In high school, I wanted to be a flight attendant, an interpreter and a secretary, but now I have decided my dream: I want to be a wedding planner, but I don't have enough information, so I will search when I go back to Japan. First of all, I want to work at a wedding company. Next, why do I want to be a wedding planner? I like to plan things. I always plan my friends' surprise parties. When my friends are surprised and happy, it makes me happy, so I want to plan another person's happiness. Finally, I want to serve foreign couples, so I need English. If I can speak English, I can give happiness to many people. Therefore I want to study communication in English. However, my friends always say, "You will be a housewife. We can predict your future." I agree with them, but I will try to be a wedding planner.

A Birthday Party

2009-10-22T21:08:00.000-07:00

When I went to homestay for the second time, I had a birthday party for my host granddaughter. At 2:00 I went to a nail salon with my host mother. It was my first time to go to a nail salon and my nails were painted very prettily. At first Lisa made my nails clean and next she painted my nails. They were light purple flowers on each third finger. I liked it very much. Every host family member also did their toenails. After everyone finished, we had a small party for my host granddaughter. We ate chocolate cupcakes. My host granddaughter and her friends played with dolls. They gave her presents. One hour later it was finished.

After this, my host mother and I went back home and until 7:oo, we stayed home and prepared for a second party. At 7:00 we went to my host daughter's house. There were a lot of host family members. My host granddaughter got a lot of presents and she opened them in front of us. She was very happy and excited everytime she opened one. After this we sang happy birthday and the birthday girl blew out her candles. We ate a piece of cake and ice cream. I was very happy to eat them. They were very good. My host family members talked with each other. I didn't have a conversation with some family members but I had a great time with them. I thought how little by little I could talk with them. Now I can't talk with them much, but someday I want to talk with all of my host family members.

This birthday party was very good for me to know how American people celebrate their family's birthday.

Valley Fest★

2009-10-22T21:03:00.000-07:00

I went to Valley Fest to dance with some education students and extension students. We danced Soran-bushi. Do you know that dance? Soran-bushi is one famous dance style in Japan. I danced it when I was a high school student. This time, there were about 15 students who came from Mukogawa high school including me. Therefore, we taught the dance to other students. We had only five or six times to practice it. However, they could memorize the choreography. They are SOOOO smart!! I love this dance because it is very exciting!! When I was a high school student, I could do this more energetically, but now it is difficult because I'm older. BUT!! It was still interesting. It was very hard to practice the dance. I already knew this dance, but they didn't. They never complained. If I were them, I think I would have said some complaints... because of the hard dance!! On the stage, we succeeded!! It was fantastic!! All of the audience said it was great!! We wore yukatas, but we changed the style. It was a little strange at first. However, people said it was cute. I was surprised. I had much confidence!! Then, I ate two tacos. One of them was good tasting, but it was too strong:( Then, a woman drew a picture on my face. It was very cute!! She said,"You look like....HEART!!LOVE!!"...I don't know why she said it to me, but I was happy. There were a lot of stores in Valley Fest. I'm glad to have signed up for this activity!!

How to Improve My TOEIC Score?

2009-10-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

I want to improve my TOEIC Score. Therefore I am considering this topic:

"How do I improve my TOEIC score?

First of all, I want to improve my reading score because I'm not good at speed reading. So I have decided to "read a lot", and "practice reading the form of the TOEIC". These are good ideas, I think. If I want to improve my reading score, I must do something for the reading form of the TOEIC test. I'll try to do these things this semester and I'll do them everyday if possible.

Secondly, I want to improve my listening score because I want to get a higher score. I decided to "do dictation", "talk with my RA", and "practice writing the form of the TOEIC". It'll be an advance for me because it'll be good for listening to English. Also, I'll do it as much as possible everyday.

I want to reach a high score which I've never gotten! I'll do my best.

American Customs

2009-10-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

There are many countries in the world, and each country has different customs. They are very interesting. When I came to America for the first time, I was surprised at three American customs.

First, I was surprised that almost all Americans don't take off shoes in their houses. When I went on homestay, I didn't take off my shoes. It was uncomfortable because my feeling was strange, but I had a good experience.

Next, I was surprised that I can use a doggy bag. When I went to a restaurant, I wasn't able to eat everything. Then a server asked me, "Do you need a doggy bag?" At first, I didn't understand "doggy bag". Then the server told me about it. When I knew, I was impressed because it is very useful, so I think Japan should use the system.

Finally, I was surprised that I can refill glasses many times for only one payment. When I went to a fast food shop with my host family, she said "You can refill." However, I worried about paying, so I asked her, "Do I have to pay again?" and she said "No." I was very surprised and impressed. It is very good for me because I drink a lot of water and juice.

I have many cultural observations of America. They are really interesting for me, so I want to look for more cultural observations now.

Heavenly Trip!

2009-10-22T18:38:00.000-07:00

The South West Trip was a perfect time for me to know cultures, nature, and histories. I not only learned them, but also I could come in contact with Extension members. The long trip brought me a lot of happiness and energy.

First, I was quite intrigued by the magnificent nature around the South West. I had never seen such a fascinating scene. It was vast and terrific! I especially want to tell about the Grand Canyon. It was sometimes brilliant because of the sun, but I noticed it showed us colorful and mysterious reactions when the sun set. When I saw the Grand Canyon for the first time, I couldn’t say anything. A couple of minutes, we were immersed in our world. I thought people were very tiny, but nature is profound, majestic, and dazzling! The Colorado River was also grand! I was so excited and moved. When I see the pictures which were painted by famous artists, I thought people feel different even if they see the same thing. In the night, I went outside, and I gazed at stars. I could watch so many stars. I felt I was in the planetarium because there were a lot of stars. I thought as if I could catch the stars. The best memory of me was shooting stars★ I had been keen to see shooting stars since I was an preschool student. I desired a lot of things, but they were too fast to wish. I was so sad, but I enjoyed talking to my friends about our desires for about 1 hour! Compared with my hometown, we can’t see such a lot of shooting stars because of the lights and smoke. I was satisfied with the whole day.

Next, some cultural and holy places we visited gave me impressions. For example, Acoma Pueblo was very sacred place. When I knew the history, I was surprised because I found the cultural differences between this area and Japan. In Japan, male supremacy was common in the past age, I sometimes feel that even now. In Acoma, they obey women. I couldn’t believe it because I thought men in most countries have absolute power. In the afternoon, we visited the elementary school which Acoma Pueblo students go to. I was little nervous because I couldn’t figure out the English which the children spoke. It’s too fast! At first, Kindergarten’s kids and I enjoyed playing with paper balloons. Maybe it was first time to play with it, and they looked glad. I was also glad to see their faces. I had a wonderful time with them. I heard that they can't marry people who are same tribes. I was amazed because I felt gap between America. In Spokane, I learned American people are diverse, so I thought it depends on the area!

Finally, one of my favorite place is Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. I was enthralled by her work and I became a fan! I sent a letter in Writing Class, and I researched about her. Since then I was looking forward to going there! I love especially flowers which were drawn by her. Her work was interesting and beautiful. Her own way painting was very fascinating! If she was alive, I would see her!

I’m grateful for teachers, an advisor, and Extension members, a bus driver, tour guide, and so on. I had a nice memory with them. Thank you very much ;-)

What are Differences between America and Japan?

2009-10-22T16:42:00.000-07:00

There are a lot of differences between America and Japan. First, American people tell their opinion directly. They are very active and powerful. Japanese people are very shy, so they tell their opinion indirectly. It sometimes makes for misunderstanding, so I think it is important to tell our own opinion accurately.

Second, American people wear their shoes at home. Japanese people don't. I think no shoes is very comfortable. I recommend it to everyone. I also have noticed differences about eating habits. American foods are very oily and high calorie. I should be careful about eating them. Japanese food is healthier. I miss Japanese food very much.:<

Next, American classes and Japanese classes have differences. The American class is more active. For example, in conversation class, we discuss some topics with classmates. But, in a Japanese class, our teacher only explains. It is very boring for me. American class suits me.

Finally, I want to know about America and Japan more. I'm excited to know and to live here. I enjoy studying American culture.

The South West Trip

2009-10-22T00:30:00.000-07:00

I went a lot of places, but my strongest impression was of the SKY!!! I love New Mexico's blue sky and sunset. It was really great! I had never seen such a beautiful sky. The clouds were close to the ground and the sky's colors were very bright. I wanted to watch them for a long time. Probably I'm never sick of the sky.

Of course, I also enjoyed visiting some places. I visited Acoma school where Acoma Pueblo children go. Actually I don't like children so much. I don't know how to communicate with them very well, so I didn't want to meet them so much. However, my children who I met in the classroom were very nice. They were cheerful, pure and have a lot of curiosity. I gave them some paper-balls and Haichu (soft candy). They were very excited. I think that children love present usually:) I was really glad. Then we were friends. Yeah! It was easier than I thought. I still miss them. It was one nice memory on the trip.

Finally, I want to say that the South West is warmth. It means that people are very friendly and always smiling. Although Seattle and the East Coast people rarely talked to me, the South West people often talked to me. Probably the reason is they live in part of the south and there are lots of nature. (I believe that people who live in the south are cheerful and easy-going.) That's why I think New Mexico is warmth!! It means the climate is hot, too! Anyway, I enjoyed the trip. Thank you, my family, teachers and friends!

Why Is Pecking-Order Important for Japanese?

2009-10-21T20:17:00.000-07:00

In Japan, there are honorific expressions used to show respect to the person addressed. It's very important for Japanese to use them. We call those expressions "keigo". However, I think it's less important to use them in the U.S. Why do Japanese use keigo?

Japanese people often have to use keigo. Actually, there are expressions like keigo in the U.S. For example, when I talk to the president of a company, I shouldn't talk to him as I talk to my friends. It's the same as Japan, but there are specific kinds of terms and expressions and it's kind of complicated. Even if my mother talks to her mother-in- law, she uses keigo, which are polite terms to show respect to her. It's usual and courteous. Also, if I talk to people who are one year older than me, I should use keigo. The reason why Japanese people often use keigo is that they regard pecking-order as important. In society, like our places of work or schools, it's important who is older. We often judge who we should respect from their age. This is because many Japanese systems are seniority systems. There is a custom that we respect elder people in Japan.

I think people in the U.S. also respect elder people, but Japanese people express that by terms, so it's easy to find out the custom. When I'm in the U.S., I often think about it. It's one of the most interesting cultural differences between Japan and America.

Awesome 7 Days

2009-10-21T15:14:00.000-07:00

I'm home!!! Welcome to Spokane!!!

I encountered many differences in the Southwest. I met a wider and larger blue sky. I couldn't believe it at first. I could look at only the vast sky, when I looked around 360 degrees. In the blue sky, only one bright sun was watching the area proudly, which was surely like the flag of Zia. The sun also warmed not only the area but also the people, so they were cheerful and thoughtful. I could feel I can fly anywhere as if I were an eagle under the blue sky. I could feel much wind which held me gently and warmly. I could smell earth by which there were many adobe buildings made. These buildings are brown color that shows kindness. When I watched many small trees growing, I felt they want rain hard. They wish only the sun to rain. In the Grand Canyon, I had the awestricken time. There are no buildings. Only nature expanded. The Grand Canyon that was held by wind and sun brightened iridescently. The sight told the importance of nature. The sunset and sunrise surrounded by nature were absolutely fabulous. I felt the nature made the earth. I was so impressed, and I noticed that I was very small in the world by nature. I would like to become bigger and brighter in the world.

I am here in the world, the Earth!!!

It is my dream now. This dream comes true completely.

Shooting★Star

2009-10-21T00:22:00.000-07:00

Every night I fall down to a secret place.

I may look beautiful,

but it's just fun for me,

I move your heart,

but its just play for me,

I like quiet places,

but people always make noise,

people and I are so different,

but I love you, so...

I will meet you every night ;)

Mother Earth

2009-10-21T00:14:00.000-07:00

Mother Earth

It is fabulous and amazing.

Blue sky, colorful rocks,

The sunrise makes cliffs marvelous colors,

Feeling the wonders of nature,

Touching rocks, breathing fresh air,

Tasting bitter pinenuts,

Quiet, solemn nature.

The Grand Canyon is glorious.

Home Stay Weekend

2009-10-20T23:57:00.000-07:00

I spent a great time with my host family. Actually, they are not our host family now; they were our host family last term, but they invited us to their house today.

First, we went to beautiful gardens in Spokane. One of them had lots of Japanese plants, and the other one had lots of colorful and cute flowers. I had been there once, but there had been no flowers. It was the first time for me to see such a beautiful garden. There was a green-house around the garden. Around Christmas, we would see illuminated plants there. I want to see them, so I asked them to take us there. They will take us again before we leave Spokane.

Second, we went to church to have lunch. The church held a Japanese food bazaar. We ate teriyaki there. It tasted stronger than Japanese teriyaki, but I really enjoyed it. My host family also said it was nice.

Next, we went back to their house and baked a lot of cookies. We usually bake cookies when we visit their house. They are easy to make and taste so nice. I like them, and my friends also love them. We often bring them to my dormmates as souvenirs. Today we also did it. They were really pleased. When I saw their happy faces, I felt warm.

Finally, we had a great dinner. Today's dinner was pizza. We really enjoyed eating pizzas and talking about a lot of things. They always try to understand us, so we can enjoy chatting. The enjoyable time passed so quickly. We had to go back to our dorm. We really spent a special time with them. I am already looking forward to seeing them again.

Nature

2009-10-20T22:49:00.000-07:00

Sit on the end of the cliff,

There are a lot of colors,

Sunshine is warm,

Wind surrounds me,

A bit of earth smell such as rock, dirt and tree

Dry air in my mouth,

I am with nature.

The Grand Canyon

2009-10-20T22:47:00.001-07:00

This is America!
How huge it is,
It stands magnificently,
Looking down on us,
Birds are flying freely,
Changing colors of the sky,
Fresh air makes me relax,
I feel the dry smell,
How small humans are.

Nothing to Think

2009-10-20T22:21:00.000-07:00

I just feel nature.

Huge rocks last forever,

The wind is very fresh to breathe deeply,

My hand feels the power of nature's greatness,

The soft orange wind touches my cheek softly,

Tasting the sunshine and sounds,

While feeling nature, I have nothing to think.

Waiting for The Sun

2009-10-20T21:55:00.000-07:00

Waiting for the sunrise was special.

The huge Grand Canyon began to change its colors from black to blue, to purple, to pink, to orange, to yellow, and finally, the beautiful sunlight came;

Fresh air brought the smell of nature: trees, flowers and the Earth;

I felt the warmth of the sun, heard birds' chirping;

That was the moment I felt I am living on the Earth.

The beginning of the day at the Grand Canyon was amazing.

Life at WSU

2009-10-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

It was our long trip. We took the van for one hour. We gathered in front of Commons at 7:45. It was really early, so we were very sleepy. After breakfast, we got into the bus. We slept on the bus while we went to WSU, but Christopher woke us up suddenly. We could see a very beautiful view. It was strange but really cool. He explained the hills and the history. We were surprised. We got into the bus again and went to WSU. It was a really huge university.

First, we took a class with WSU students. There were many Kansai Gakuin University students because WSU accepts them. I envy them. We talked with them about English. We did origami that was difficult for them. Next, they taught each student how to make a T-shirt with origami. They were really cute. It is my treasure, so I put the T-shirt into my wallet. We were given a ticket to eat food from our teacher during the class.

After class, two of us went around WSU with Yoko and Chiang. They were my partners. Then we went to the cafeteria. There were a lot of differences between the WSU cafeteria and Commons. We were really shocked because there were many kinds of food. In addition, those foods were awesome, and we could eat everything. I had a great time with the WSU students, and the food made us happy and smile.

Life of the Earth

2009-10-20T21:28:00.000-07:00

I can feel the life of the earth.

Sitting on the cliff, closing my eyes, listening carefully and quietly.

Hearing voices of birds, the wind and murmuring of trees.

Feeling nature, force, colors of the earth, and warmth.

Imagining the history of the earth, dimension, height.

Tasting earth's life and love.

Life of the earth is our life; the earth is our mother.

Try to Stop Thinking

2009-10-20T21:06:00.000-07:00

I am sitting on the cliff, and feeling the earth,

the sun is going to hide behind the hill,

the air is fresh, trying to breathe deeply

the rock is getting cold, my body is, too

closing my eyes, listening to the sounds

tasting fresh wind from the earth

the earth gives wisdom to us.

The Gentle Canyon

2009-10-20T21:00:00.000-07:00

The Grand Canyon has gentle canyons

There are tender colors of nature

The smell of the sun and ground are comfortable

Warm sunshine, slow time, soft wind

The taste is intimate

The Grand Canyon always tucks us up gently

by Honami

Grand Nature

2009-10-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

Look around the Grand Canyon

The sun changes colors one after another,

The huge view makes me tiny,

Whisper of trees and wind,

Smell the breath of nature,

Taste cold fresh air,

Lying down on the cliffs, feel the earth on my back.

Feel the amazing power of nature.

Grand Canyon

2009-10-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

It is very large there.

The rocks are clear and beautiful.

The air is cool and my feeling is comfortable.

It is quiet, but it is a wild place.

A lot of nature

Natural tasting, sunshine,

It is a dazzling place.

Wonders of Nature

2009-10-20T17:05:00.000-07:00

It was the most beautiful view in my life.
Looking at the serene sky, one inch people,
Having a kind heart, forgiving everything,
Murmuring trees, chirping birds, smelling freshly,
Tasting the earth.
The breathtaking view removes my impure mind.

By Yukino

The Southwest

2009-10-20T12:40:00.000-07:00

As long as I can remember, I have loved the outdoors. Perhaps it's because my first memory as a child is at the Grand Canyon. That's why it was such a pleasure to travel with the 42 Extension students and see the Canyon reflected in their faces. It was a memorable experience seeing these beautiful women looking at the view from the south rim and knowing that this canyon is also a symbol of their own struggle and success with English.

I looked down on the Colorado river and remembered that it was the constant and patient continuation of force that allowed the Grand Canyon to form. Over time, and with determination, anything can be achieved. I saw this same determination and spirit in the eyes of our students.

It was a lovely moment to realize that these 42 women were looking down on a scene so representative of thier own language learning. I was moved.

Christopher Micek

The Fascinating Difference

2009-10-08T00:05:00.000-07:00

'Alternative learning' is something different from Japanese culture. I talked and learned about alternative education this afternoon, and I found variety is one of the important things which makes a country more interesting.

I had been thinking that educational systems are almost all the same in a country because it is suppose to be similar and equal in Japan. I was thinking that we had to go to school to get an education because that was what I was told. Also I was taught that I had to learn how to cooperate with others, and I had been believing that that was the purpose of learning at school, until I went to an American high school for a month. So the most important things in Japan were to be reserved, to be obedient, and to keep quiet.

But the students I met in the U.S. (actually here in Spokane!) were so different. They were eager to learn and were very positive, and the classes were not lectures but discussions all the time. This was a great culture shock to me. As I listened to the guests today, I found that students in America go to school to have confidence in themselves. They don't care about education styles very much, and they get an education to get a good job. But most importantly, they go to school to learn how to live in real society. I think I have almost forgotten this most important idea, spending time in Japan.

I always think about how a lot of things that I'm learning through this program are wonderful. This time, I realized the difference between sayings in the U.S. and Japan. In the U.S., people say 'The noisy wheel gets the oil,' but on the other hand, people in Japan say, 'The nail that sticks out gets hammered down'. Finding something through cultural differences is really interesting and meaningful, and the differences that I'm finding are making each country fascinating.

Why are a lot of Americans Overweight?

2009-10-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

I think there are a lot of fat people in America. There are fat Japanese, but it is less than American. I think there are a lot of reasons.

First, it is related to American eating habits. When I came to America, I thought American cookies and cakes were too sweet, but I liked them. If we keep eating them everyday, we will get fat. Americans eat a lot of meat, more than fish. Americans like high calorie foods.

Second, all American servings are big. I was surprised when I went to Walmart last semester because very big ice cream was sold. In Japan, ice cream is put in a cup and sold, but in America, it is put in a bucket. It was not sold by the cup. If I have a bucket of ice cream, I will finish eating it faster than a cup of ice cream.

Finally, I think what I can do to keep my weight? I do not want to gain weight. I think it is important for us to exercise. I will try to go to the gym, but I have never been there. I will try to eat a lot of vegetables, and I will not eat a lot of cookies, cakes and ice cream.

I want to care my health.

My Experience in This Summer!

2009-10-07T05:55:00.000-07:00

This summer ( August only...), I joined the volunteer "Cub Scouts" in Takaraduka. The children who go to an elementary school can take part in it, so it's similar to Boys Scouts. Its purpose is to make them easy to have many friends from different schools, and to experience a variety of important things to live by doing outdoor activities or camping, but actually, almost all of them don't find out about it.
It's natural for them, because they are still to young to notice that. I think it's enough for them to enjoy joining it by themselves.

I was prejudiced against any volunteers before I took part in it, because I didn' t understand why people volunteer without being given money, and I'm afraid of this expression may be inappropriate, but I thought it's just a waste of time. However, I could change my mind by doing volunteerism.

At first, my friend, who belongs to the department of Education (now, she also takes classes in Spokane!) invited me to the volunteerism that she joins. I thought Boy Scouts always do good things, for example, picking cans up, talking with people who live in other regions etc, so I also thought they make a great contribution to Japan, but my expectation was easily broken into pieces. They were impertinent and selfish and noisy! They were the same to the other children who don't join it. However, after joining it, I was excited all the day, in the end, it was fantastic for me! I love children, so it doesn't matter whether they are good or not, that's why I consider that what way do encourage them to go to good course in their lives.

♪Bold type=was editied by my partner♡

Valleyfest!

2009-10-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

On September 26th, I went to Valleyfest. I was very glad to go there, because I wasn't involved in volunteer work of Japanese Culture Center during last semester. At first, I was not going to dance Soran-bushi, I would just watch. My friends took me to JCC to take part in the orientation. Then I decided to go dancing. I thank my friends now because they gave me a chance to volunteer.

The day before Valleyfest, I took part in the Calligraphy Workshop to help JCC's stuff with my friend, Shoko. We met some American women. They were interested in Japanese culture very much. Some of them asked me to write their name in Kanji, so I had to think about substitute character. It was very difficult for me, but I managed to write it well. They were pleased at my work. I was pleased too.

A lady and her husband promised to come to Valleyfest to watch our dance. We really met again. I was so surprised and glad to meet them again. She taught me how to pronounce V well. I thought I need more effort. We talked about our culture, and promise to meet again at JCC. I'm looking forward to meeting again.

We wore Yukata, so maybe we stood out there. We walked in the park, a lot of American whom we didn't know spoke to us. "I love your clothes!" How different American people are from Japanese!

It's pity that I don't have picture of me wearing Yukata, so I put the cake we ate.　It was a little oily but so delicious. I really enjoyed my first outdoor volunteering in Spokane.

One Friday

2009-10-07T05:49:00.000-07:00

On 2nd October, It was a very busy day.

After school, I made a dream catcher in library with my friends.I didn't know how to do but Ms Kyoko taught us kindly, so, I were able to make it! Yeah!
I have sometimes had nightmares since I came here. In my nightmares, I was followed by something. I think that probably I'm followed by a lot of homework and an essay. However, now, I have my dream catcher. I hope that I don't have a nightmare.

And then, my roommate and I went to dinner with my host mother:) I couldn't meet my host father because he is so busy. I hope, I can meet next time.

We went to the Maggie's restaurant. There was quite pretty restaurant and have delicious foods! I was so happy to eat delicious foods in America. I ate a Chicken something. It was great! I like it.

We talked a lot of things there. My mother took out her wisdom teeth. After that her face became bigger than before... it was terrible:( However I also have to take out my wisdom teeth, may be, next year. Moreover, my juniors in dormitory of Japan and part-time job will come here next Februrary, like us. I told it to her and she said "I would like to meet them and I can tell about you:)"

After eating, we went to my host family's new house. I was surprised. It's very nice house. It's big ,cute and we can see a great view from there. Then, we played a Domino. I had never done it, but it was interesting for my roommate and me. I think that I want to play it with my friends while we drink alcohol. Just Kidding! haha.

Finally, we went to a cold stone store to eat ice cream! Yeah! I had never eaten a cold stone's ice cream, so, I was so excited. I chose " Berry Berry Berry Happy" ice cream...I'm not sure the name but it was delicious! I'm so happy to eat it. My roommate chose kind of chocolate ice cream, it also very good. I ate all medium size ice cream. I'm happy! I love icecream!

Then, we returned to our dormitory.

I had a wonderful time with my host mother and roommate.
We will meet next month, I'm excited about it.

Why Do I Like Cooking?

2009-10-02T17:05:00.000-07:00

I like cooking very much. First, I like to bake cakes, cookies and make dinner. Cooking is sometimes difficult, but when I'm cooking, I feel happiness and contentment. I also like to cook with someone. I invite my friends and cook together. It's very fun!! When we decorate cakes or cookies, we can think of ways to decorate that I can't come up with alone, so it is more fun than if I bake alone. Every year, I look forward to Valentine's day. I can bake many sweets and eat what other people cook. When I was a high school student, I exchanged sweets with my friends. I tasted various flavors, so it was very interesting.

Second, I like cooking for many reasons. I like to make people happy with my meals or sweets. When I cook dinner for my family, they thank me and give me advice. For example, "I like more spice", or "It needs more soy sauce". It gives me a great zeal for cooking. I sometimes fail and succeed. If I fail at baking, I try to make it many times until I succeed. I can't forget my sense of achievement when I succeed. I can improve my cooking skills by making mistakes. To decorate is the most enjoyable for me. When I decorate, I always prepare. I recreate the decoration based on pictures that I drew, so I can decorate in my way. I really fell happiness.

Finally, cooking is my oasis. When I am cooking something, I can forget everything and I cook to forget everything. I think cooking is very deep and thoughtful, so to think about cooking is one of my enjoyments. There are many kinds of cooking styles, so I want to learn many of them. I can't live without cooking!!

Great experience.

2009-09-28T16:56:00.000-07:00

In this summer, I had first experience.

My family hosted twice. The first girl was from India, and she stayed for 3days as a exchange students in the MWU program. Hosting someone is first time for my family, and my family don't have a chance to speak English usualy except me. However, Indian girl was always curious about Japan, so she asked a lot of question, so we could speak pleasantly.

We went to the USJ, and sushi restaurant. We wanted to go more, but we didn't have enough time. However, she said she had a great time with us. I was so glad to hear that.

The second girl who came from Spokane WA also was exchange student, but she was rotary club. I went to Spokane as a exchange student last summer, so this year, she came to Japan, and stayed my house for 3 weeks.

She was an active and funny girl, so my family laughed everyday. She tried to remember some Japanese words. She remembered "Gomen" "Arigatou" "Dame" "Iiyo" "Iya". She was really cute.We promised to meet again.

This summer, I could keep speaking English, and make new friends of other countries.

I still keep in touch with them, and from now on.

These are my great experience.

Summer Vacation

2009-09-27T15:36:00.000-07:00

Summer Vacation

Before I came here, I had a long summer vacation in this year. After regular program,I was so glad that I could eat my mother's cooking. My mother is good at cooking,so I was very happy everyday.

The most excited memory during this summer was to watch fireworks twice. I went to Ashiya and Takaraduka to watch them.They were so beautiful. I had never seen them near,so I was impressed very much.

I also had a part time job during this summer.I worked at buffet restaurant. It was my first time to work at a restaurant. It was heavy work and I worked there a short period. I was so tired,but I could have a good experience there.

The restaurant is in Harbor Land,so many foreigner came to visit.I almost always could speak English when I went to work. It was to work at the restaurant,but It was very good place to keep my English.

At the end of this summer my friends who I spent a long time in regular program gave me a farewell party,and one of them gave me a daily pad calendar.She made it for me! I was so surprised and glad. I thought that I will do my best again.I tear a leaf off the calendar every day.It reminds me of my friends.

I had a great time with my friends and family in this summer!

My Hometown

2009-09-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

My hometown is Ikeda city in Osaka Japan.

I have never moved from there since I was born, so I have lived for twenty years. It is famous for chicken Chinese noodle. There is a museum. The name is "Instant Chinese noodle invention museum".

We can make original cup noodle to choose kinds of ingredient and soup, so it was so excited to make them, so many children to adult can enjoy making . When I was a child, I went there, but I didn' t remember at all, so I want to go there again.

I had worked at an oyster specialty store about three month last year. The name is "kakimine". The menu is only full-course meal, also only one. They are a vineger oyster, deep fried oysters, an oyster nabe and oyster rice with soup, nori, ginger and wasabi. I have never eaten all, but I ate them a little except an oyster nabe. They were so delicious. I worked as a hall staff. I could enjoy working very much there.

I recommend this store to you if you go to my hometown, Ikeda.

This blog was edited by Saki.

Host Family

2009-09-27T00:09:00.000-07:00

Host Family

Saturday, September 26

I saw my host family on September 20th. They had moved new house and it is very big and beautiful. I want to live in such a beautiful house.

We had a barbecue in the yard for lunch. It was delicious. Mother taught me how to cook so I want to cook it in Japan with my friends. Then, my father cooked chicken . He used a teriyaki flavor. I remembered Japanese taste. We enjoyed eating it with their friends and enjoyed conversation.

There are 5 people in the family. I was surprised how the youngest doughter grew up. She is 2 years old. Before She couldn't speak a lot, but now she can speak a lot.
After lunch, we played some sports.

We had a wonderful time.

I'm looking forward to seeing them again.

Thank you.

Last Summer

2009-09-26T21:11:00.001-07:00

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Last Summer

Hello! I'm going to talk about my life in last summer. I have always stayed home since I went back to Japan, because my house was very comfortable more than before I went to Spokane in the regular program. I didn't do a part time job, so I watched the TV and many DVDs in my house except when I went to university. However, I have once met my friends in August.

I looked forward to meeting to them because we didn't see since the study abroad finished. I felt that we don't meet for a long time because we have met them every day during the regular program. Therefore, I had many things that I wanted to talk to them.

We could hardly see each other before, but when we did, we screamed. We didn't stop talking. Then we did bowling! We usually go bowling when we meet somewhere. I don't know why bowling. I'm not good at it but I was very fun! The most impressive thing is to be cheered up by them because the person who will take part in the Extension program was only me.

I want to meet them. They are my good friends! This is the good memory of my life of last summer. Thank you.

Become an adult

2009-09-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

I became twenty years old in June. A person's 20th birthday is special day in Japan, so we have the Coming of Age Day in January. We become an adult and we have to have a responsibility. However, I do not have any responsibility of myself and I have not changed at all from what I was in teens. I can vote, drive, drink alcohol, snd smoke. I have to pay pension. I do not know when I can really be an adult. I think that we become an adult on the Coming of Age Day. We have ceremony and the Mayor makes a speech. We can not be a child on the day.

On the Coming of Age Day, girls wear a long-sleeved kimono. This is traditional clothing of the day. All girls look beautiful. Some boys wear the hakama and others wear a suit. Wearing a long-sleeved kimono and the hakama is wonderful tradition of Japan. However, some girls wear it strangely. They expose their shoulder. They may think it is cute, good, fashionable or attractive. However, I don't think so. Wearing a long-sleeved kimono normally is best. I don't know why they wear it strangely.

I am in America now, I noticed that I can't live without my parents' help. I always depend on them. They always worry about me and think about me. All of cost of my life is paid by my parents. I have to thank them, but I can not tell my feeling even though I always thank them. I return the favor to them.

When I lived with my parents, I could not feel such a feeling. I think this is the first step for becoming an adult. Learning and experiencing a lot are very important to become an adult. Then we know thank for our parents and everything. However, it is difficult for me to become an adult. I want to be young.