My Very Important Japanese Presentation!

Today was my turn to do the Japanese presentation. I didn't speak to university and government officials. Instead, I presented to another important group of people--Julia's preschool class. I was asked to introduce them to Japan. 

They learned how to count to five, make Japanese animal sounds, and sing "Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes" in Japanese. They loved to sing in Japanese and make frog and dog sounds (gero gero and wan wan)! We also read the story "The Funny Little Woman" which is about a Japanese lady who gets into a predicament with monsters (oni), Shinto Gods, and a magic shamoji or rice paddle. After the book we talked about how to make our own rice dumplings by putting salt on your hands and then patting and squishing the leftover rice into a ball. 

Next, we tried on a yugata or summer kimono with the wooden shoes that men and women wear during the summer holidays. Finally, after looking at some beautiful pictures of Mount Fuji, Sakura (cherry blossom trees), waterfalls, and forests, we ate! The kids tried ebi (shrimp) flavored chips (most of them wanted seconds). Ms. Martha, our teacher/neighbor, said they tasted like fishstick crackers. We also ate chocolate covered cracker sticks and rice paper candy. They were thrilled about when the rice paper wrapper melted in their mouths. 

I had a great time introducing the kids to Japan. 

My favorite moment was when one little girl, Annie, said "I can't eat those, I'm allergic" 

I said, "Oh, you are allergic to rice? Are you sure, because these taste like jelly beans!"

She decided maybe she wasn't allergic.

She tried the candy anyhow and then wanted more!

Next time, maybe I'll bring squid jerky or seaweed! What do you think?

I'll bet they'll all be allergic!

To come later.... TJ's special Baptism day.