Saturday

On Saturday we began the day by joining an English class for 6-10 years old (by invitation from the mayor).  You would have been proud of your children as they led the children in The Wheels on the Bus, Hokey Pokey, BINGO and Duck, Duck, Goose.  The little ones asked for autographs, asked us where we lived and how old we were.  There were lots of laughs and a genuine good time was had by all involved.  There were many comments on how mature and poised our kids were.
Next we moved up to the mountain (where I am staying) and engaged in a wood craft project.  We are all bringing home pens made from local wood found here in Matsuyama.  Lunch was next as we laughed watching each other work for our lunch.  We had to catch our noodles for your lunch as the came down a chute.  Catching them with chopsticks was no small feat.  No one went away hungry. 
We were then treated to a Meiko (Geisha in Training) presentation in Sakata City.  These women were so graceful and precise in their movements.   It was a very beautiful dance and music presentation.
On the way to our spot to have an outdoor cookout dinner we stopped at an observation/lighthouse for some great views of the Japan Sea.  Next door to this was a maritime festival.  We were able to see a Japanese battle ship and submarine.  We even got to mingle with some sailors and other military personnel.
Our BBQ was hosted by Zeno's and Jacob's host family.  We all enjoyed a BBQ of beef, chicken, sea scollops and a type of snail creature.  Everyone came dressed in their Japanese festival outfits.  Lots of laughs were had by all.  The spectacular fireworks followed.  The BBQ house was within walking distance of the fireworks and we had great seats.  Our fireworks n Cape Cod are wimpy next to these in Japan.
It was a late night but well worth all the activities.