Matsuyama and Sakata

Yesterday we had a wonderful welcome from the students of Matsuyama Jr. High complete with speeches and songs from the student body.  Our children were then treated to mini-courses in traditional Japanese activities.  They included Japanese Flower Aranging, Playing the Koto (Japanese stringed instrument), Calligraphy and the wearing of the Kimono (or Yukata).  We enjoyed these traditional activities very much.
Next we were treated to a delicious sushi lunch.  I was told that the cucumber sushi was the popular choice, but we (not me) tried all of the fresh fish and seafood offerings also. 
We then moved on to a meeting in Sakata City with the Vice Mayor and the Head of the Sakata Board of Education.  We stressed how important this homestay program is to CCLCS and hoped that it would be able to continue.  The Vice Mayor and Head then asked each other questions.  Our students were thoughtful in their questions and answers.  Here is the facebook page which has a small summary of our visit and a picture.  I hope its in english when you open it at home.  I can only see it in Japanese. https://www.facebook.com/sakatacity?hc_location=timeline
Later we walked a short distance to an old rice warehouse that was turned into a large shop of various Japanese wares.  After shopping and ice cream we ended our long day.  The rain held off for the whole day-just overcast.
We have awaken to rain and today (8/1) we are scheduled to canoe, fish and mini golf.
I apologize for no pictures as I have not found any WIFI but there will be more news to come.