Ready, Set, GO!

March Madness takes on a different form in the Far East. The school year and fiscal year both end in March, which means two things: lots of bowing and lots of farewell parties. This year was no different. During the third graders graduation ceremony I decided to tally up how many times I bowed during the course of the ceremony (I mean, what else would I do?!?!? I don't understand what they are talking about, and even if I did I would probably just fall asleep like everyone else). Times bowed during the hour-long ceremony: 106.

It was actually very sad seeing some of my students leave the school for the last time. I have become very good friends with some of them, and they have made my time in Japan a memorable one.

Next up: Kindergarten graduation. The students came dressed in their cutest outfits to make them even cuter! Never before have I seen the 3-piece suit so well utilized with the matching shorts and stretched up gym socks.

This graduation ceremony wasn't as boring as the Junior High School one for several reasons: 1) while the mayor was speaking several graduates started jostling with their clothing and pulling their skirts over their heads; 2) the kids in kindergarten are just learning to bow, so it is fun to watch them try; 3) young children are the best at speaking with me...they use easy Japanese, they like actions and gestures, and if I nod my head and say something silly they think I understand; and, 4) I gave a speech in Japanese, so of course it was very moving and got all the parents crying.