The Old and the New... or "How do I flush?"

One of the fascinating aspects of Japanese culture is the integration of both the old and the new.... the old traditions and the newest technology. Believe it or not, this even affects bathrooms. Let me quote from the basic handbook of the sending agency, the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund:

"While many places in Japan have Western-style toilets, don't be surprised if you encounter the 'Squat' variety. They are sanitary and sensible, although they do require some balancing. As long as you are able to keep your heels placed on the ground, you will find them fairly easy to use. Before going to Japan, you many want to practice squatting while trying to keep your heels on the ground.

On the other hand, toilets with heated seats are becoming quite common at regular homes... These seats usually have a console of various controls and buttons which, when pushed provide luxuries such as continuous flushing noise for privacy and modesty, seat heating for cold days and warm jet sprays for washing. "

Hmmm. Should be interesting. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to practice my squatting!
** In what others ways do you think I'll encounter both the old and the new? **

What is anime all about, anyway?

I confess that I don't understand much about Anime. What can you tell me about it?

P.S. Some of you are getting lazy with your grammar. Remember this blog will be read by people in Japan, so please use proper grammar!

Mystery Challenge #3: What animal?

As regular readers of this blog know, I will be living for a while on the island of Shikoku. There is a species of animal named after Shikoku. Can you identify the type of animal and provide a little information?

Answer as provided by Louise and Shadow: Shikoku is a breed of dog that was originally used in Japan for hunting. Good job, students

Assignment: Shikoku

I've just been informed of my assigment: I will be spending several weeks in Shokoku. What can you discover about this mystery spot? (Please don't cut and paste pages of information from other web sites. Summary is best; perhaps with a few lines properly quoted from another source.)

Learn a little... Japanese!

Those students that wish to brush up on their conversational Japanese are invited to practice with Mr. Lahr in room fifty-four every Wed. & Thurs. at lunch! See you there!

Konnichiwa , Wakarimasu ka?

Cel-e-bra-tion

If you're a Paulding Student reading this before May 5th, then drop by my room (room 54) at break on May 5th to celebrate CHILDRENS' DAY!

Mystery Holiday -- May 5th!

People in Japan are preparing to celebrate a special holiday on May 5th! Your challenge is to discover the name of this holiday.

The first person to correctly identify the holiday will be honored here:
Louise was the first to correctly identify the Japanese Holiday of Children's Day.

When I first heard about this holiday I was in fifth grade. Of course I ran home and told my mom that we should celebrate this great holiday. Her answer was so predictable that I knew even as it left her lips. She said, "Around here, everyday is Children's Day." I think she probably sent me to clean my room in honor of Children's day.

If you were in charge, how would you have families celebrate Children's Day?