On Thursday I asked if I could come with Mariko to her calligraphy class that she teaches at a retirement day center. I was excited to sit in on a class and maybe try writing kanji, but after we arrived at the day service center, we met with the director instead to discuss further plans there. Mariko's friend was also there, and she does calligraphy too. To be honest, I was a tad bored since it wasn't concerning me, but they served us drinks as is a typical custom, and I had absolutely delicious peach juice. It was worth it for that alone.
Afterwards we drove to a cafe called Flip Flop, and was filled with cute nature crafts (a bit expensive though!) But it had a breathtaking view of rice fields. I ate a funky but yummy sandwhich with iced coffee. It was the perfect size for me and when I finished, Mariko noticed I was reading the menu from out table. I asked what something was and she said, "Chiffon Cake, have you tried?" Which, to my knowledge, no I hadn't. Mariko smiled and called to the cafe workers that we would like one piece. She shares my affinity for sweets, and we joke that is why the mosquitos love us, but me more since I must be new and exotic. I definitely approve of Chiffon cake : ) She visited with her friend a very long time so I had time to read a sad, but surprise happy ending children's book about a cat, and some magazines, as well as linger over buying a pretty copper necklace. Eventually I could hear my mother's voice going "It's okay, you are in JAPAN!" So I gave in : ) I figured I had only 11 days left so hey, if I want it, I should just go for it. It was a very nice way to relax. I am glad we went.
After the cafe, Mariko took me to the family grocery store and where she teaches calligraphy to children. I was waiting to try and had a seat and everything, but soon Ayako came to get me and bring me to Mihoko, the daughter in law's, English school. I love any teaching I get to do here but I was a little caught off guard when she said, "please! Be the teacher today!" But it was very basic and we just worked on two new questions with 2 classes, aged 5-11. It was a lot of fun and I am glad, since it helps me know that yes! I want to be a teacher! Whew, good feeling to have right? It was a long day and everyone has a very busy schedule, so dinner is around 8:00 and perhaps a little late, but the food is wonderful! Mariko laughed and warned that many Wwoofers gain weight, and she doesn't know why! But it must be the good food, which is okay by me : )
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