Today was the best of all!

We went to the elementary school today. I am exhausted - this was by far the best day in the schools. I have never seen such eager and excited children in my life. We were like rock stars. I signed more hats today - every where I turned they asked me for my autograph. The fact of the matter is - some of these children had NEVER seen an American. Hard to believe - but true!

We were greeted by a school assembly. We walked in to applause, banners, and flags everywhere. Then, each grade level had prepared some type of performance. It was hard to sit in front of this group of children and keep myself together. I found myself getting extremely emotional - but I did keep it in control. Then, the first graders presented us with bookmarks that the children had made for us. Again - I had to bite my lip to keep from crying!

After the assembly we were on our own to observe classes. I saw Math, Reading, Science, Japanese History, and calligraphy. I even got to try calligraphy on my own. It is harder than it looks! I truly felt at home at this school.

It is hard to explain all of the emotions that went through my head today. I kept thinking to myself, "I cannot believe that I am getting to experience all of this". And I kept saying out loud - "unbelievable". Yes - this trip has truly been unbelievable!

I am off to my homestay tomorrow. I will post again Sunday night here and Sunday morning in Texas. The time is flying and I am having a wonderful time. Great friends - great memories. Yet - there is a part of me that is ready to come back home to reality. I miss my family and I miss OLV! I love you all!