Tons of babies

Today's Ikebana decoration was chosen to honor the fact that Mika is getting married in two days. The small bell peppers you see at the bottom of the decoration symbolize fertility, so this was Gunji-sensei's way of wishing Mika a happy and productive marriage. Here is Mika with Gunji-sensei's decoration and Mie-chan: Ikebana was also very special today because my sis attended the class. Gunji-sensei had gone out of her way to prepare a good experience. Japanese people tend to show a hospitality that can only inspire.

Sis made a beautiful autumn decoration with german iris and red berries.










As Mika had to hurry on for wedding pic shooting, Gunji-sensei had arranged for another woman to come and help with translation. Lots of regional handicraft was showed and discussed.
The red cow on the pic is the Akabeko cow, a famed toy from the Aizu region.

After all the 'hard' work a feast of a lunch was served. It included various types of tempura, tofu, cucumber and crab salad, mountain vegetables, the best seasoned rice I have ever had and a deluxe miso soup and nuka-pickles. We got to help arrange it, which was quite fun:-) We also got to taste a homemade healthy fruit/vinegar drink. I don't remember the name of the fruit though. Itadakimasu! :