Manich Friday

Keiko
Chika




Yesterday was one of the craziest days so far, even though I only had 2 classes. Those two classes were my first adult education classes...and I was so nervous. First of all, the staff in charge speak very little English, so it was difficult to even prepare for the courses. Also, it poured all day which put a damper on my mood and seemed to make me late for everything. Also, because the courses are sponsored by the city, two representatives from the Ward's office (like our city halls) sat in for a bit and took pictures. On top of that pressure was the fact that 3 other OCC staff sat in (to support me, I guess, but it really just made me self-conscious).

The first class, beginners level, was great after all. I had been warned that they spoke little English, were scared, and probably wouldn't talk at first. However, they were great speakers (just needed a bit of prompting) and seemed really friendly and excited. Other than the fact that they are 10 older women, I kind of felt like I was teaching a kindergarten class that was pumped up for learning and excited about everything I said.

The second course, however, seemed scarier. It could be that it was much darker and rainier by the time it began, I was late because I was told the wrong building (turns out there is no basement in the library...just storage...oops), and the class was a bit more reserved. They were intermediate level, so they spoke better English, but they were also more confident in themselves, which means less reliant on me. They asked a lot of questions, but with a less childlike tone. They participated, but seemed too concerned with my judgment of their work. It felt like a serious college course where the students are educated, but much less enthusiastic by what I have to offer.

Again, the outside factors probably had a lot to do with it...but I definitely sensed a different atmosphere in each class. Either way, I survived! Then I took a long, deserved (I decided) nap.

That evening was the Cassie Welcome Party put on by the International Relations office and English Club. Turns out the party was more of a ceremony (I should have known!), but fun nonetheless. I gave a short slide show presentation of myself and took questions (most ended up being about Brian...), then participated in all sorts of Japanese games/traditions. I was the guest at a traditional tea ceremony put on by Chika and Yumi (on stage....in front of a crowd....that was bored watching some foreigner drink tea for 20 minutes, I bet). I got to dress up and mime Keiko perform kendo, Japanese fencing. I also learned about all sorts of Japanese toys from Miki, and I got to try them out (why does everything in this country have to be super advanced?! Don't they have bouncy balls??). I failed miserably in every case, but had fun. There was also food, but I hardly had a chance to eat. I must have taken 90 pictures....have to master my peace sign. That part was the best, I'd say, because the girls all approached me one on one and I felt like they were finally befriending me. They all promised to send me their pictures, so I will post them eventually.

It was a long day following an extremely long week, but I had fun and lived to tell about it.

[check out more pictures from the party on my photo blog]