Who knew how five months in Asia would change my life. The fun adventures, the hard days, and the beautiful people will stay with me forever. Japan was an incredible month filled with love and laughter.
Anyone who has heard anything about Japan knows about the beautiful cherry blossoms that bloom every spring. But I did not expect to find such beauty in Japan in the winter!
These girls stole my heart. They were an answer to prayer as they came and peeked into the window one day during our prayer meeting. We were able to dance with them, laugh with them, and love them. Their sweet smiles will stay with me forever.
In Japan, on Coming of Age Day, all the young people who turn 20 are officially recognized by the government as adults. All the young women wear kimonos to the ceremony. It felt a little like prom.
Where we lived in Sanda, it was cold enough to snow a few times. This southern girl was very happy.
One day, two ladies from our English class invited Kayla and I to their house to try on Kimonos. The silky fabric was so beautiful! It took both of them working together for twenty minutes to get the outfit on, but it was amazing!
If you ever go to Japan, you must visit the city of Kyoto. It is full of buildings older than you can imagine. A beautiful trip for our day off.
Finally, here is some photo booth fun from our goodbye party. I will cherish my time in Japan for the rest of my life and I hope to be back someday to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.
