Wanted: Creative Gift!

I need to bring a special gift for the family that I live with for a few days. Here is an excerpt from the Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Education Program handbook explaining about the gift:

It would be very nice if you would bring a nongendered gift for your host family, as they are volunteers who will open up their homes for you to experience an ordinary Japanese life. ... These could be a hard cover photo book of American scenery, or of your state, or a decorative item representing your region, a Tshirt, sweatshirt or baseball cap with the logo of your state, school or local sports team. It should be no more than $40 or so. Be creative with your gift.

So, which one of my creative students can suggest the most appropriate gift. (Also, remember, it needs to be able to fit easily in the ONE suitcase that I'm allowed to bring.)

Thanks to those who save me from social embarrassment!

Today, I received the handbook for the Japan Fulbright Memorial Fund Teacher Program. It was 35 pages packed with information I need to know about my trip.

I felt I already knew many of the things mentioned in the handbook because some of my students were thoughtful enough to provide me with etiquette tips. I found many of the tips that students provided helpful. Thanks to Taquitot3, Lauren, Mariah and Angelica who all explained the importance of clean socks and using slippers indoors. My handbook said that students, teachers and visitors all wear slippers while in the classroom. (The handbook even suggested bringing our own because American feet tend to be larger than those of our Japanese hosts.)

Several of you made great suggestions about proper introductions when you first meet someone (Thanks Kyle, Akash, Allyson and Sam). Did you know that swapping business cards is very important? When someone gives you a card you are supposed to take it with two hands – not one. You examine it carefully and then put carefully away (never write on it, that’s rude!).

I won’t forget to slurp my soup and I’ll try to use my chopsticks correctly thanks to the advice of Jordan, C.Costa and the rest of you.

Josh made an interesting suggestion of bringing videos, but I’m not sure if the Japanese people would like “The Last Samurai.” They might find it insulting or exploitive. I will try to find out, Josh and report back to you.

Finally, I’ll know exactly what to say in important situations, thanks to Mickeys93420 and Serena.

Many of you, but especially Brianna, provided tips about using the bath tub. You were absolutely correct. I will be staying for a few days with a family, so it is important to know that you wash before getting into the tub since the water is shared by all members of the family.

Thanks to those who saved me from social embarrassment!

A Special spot for Striving Students

Okay, all of my students... truthfully, not all, but a lot of my students... Well, no...a couple of students want a special spot to research and find Interesting facts and trivia about Japan. For the dedicated few... this is the spot.

I truly appreciate your interest in my trip. Because of your help, I hope you consider my trip, part your trip, too!

It's Cherry Blossom Time!

Right now, this week is one of the best times to view the famous cherry blossoms of Japan. "Sakura" is the Japanese name for cherry trees (Prunus serrulata). Flowering viewing is popular in Japan, and parks care crowded with families having parties under the trees. Hanami festivals celebrate the beauty of the sakura.

Some Japanese people travel around the country to see specific famous cherry trees. The “Garyuzakura” cherry tree (Ichinomiya-cho, Gifu) is reputed to be over one thousand years old.

By the time I arrive in Tokyo in June, the flowering season will have long passed. Since I love trees (especially bonsai!) I guess I'll have to visit Japan sometime when our spring break coincides with the cherry blossom season.

Be the first: Can you tell me which US city is famous for its cherry trees which were originally imported from Japan and planted in 1910? Does this American city have a cherry blossom festival?

If you want to learn more about the cherry blossom season in Japan, here are a couple of web sites:
http://www.japantravelinfo.com/features/features_item.php?featuresid=9
http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/indepth/seasonal/sakura2008/

Help Me!

I need to learn some manners before visitng Japan! Help keep me from making any social blunders in an unfamilar culture. Do some research and send me a Japanese etiquette tip. Post your advice here! (Check out other people's responses before posting your own so you don't repeat what they've just said... that sounds silly).

A job's not completed until the paper work is done

I received a packet from the Fulbright Foundation today. It was filled with a few forms and directions to download more forms from the Internet. Very little information about what we will be doing or seeing while in Asia. Our day to day itinerary remains a mystery!

I didn't feel like doing the paperwork today so... I did it anyway! A small price to pay for the trip of a lifetime.

My first step... My first entry

The first step in my Japanese adventure is creating a blogspot. This is new to me so already the adventure begins! My goal is to share my adventures, my thoughts, and even my misadventures.

First, a few caveats and provisos (excuses):
1. This is a spotaneous writing, do not expect the Queen's English.
2. Sometimes as a teacher it is hard to express thoughts and feelings. Sometimes as a student it's hard to empathize with a teacher... just give me a break!
3. Beware: No spell check on this blog.

In short, this blog will highlight my (all-expense paid) trip to Japan. The goal of the Fulbright Foundation (the people who paid for this trip) is to educate teachers about Japan so that they might better educate their students. This is the first step in that journey!