Hello everybody!

I hope that you are all well. I'm doing great! It's been really nice having parents visit out classes this month. I hope that those of you who managed to observe a class enjoyed it. We have certainly enjoyed having you here.

Our spring picnic last month was a great success. I really enjoyed doing the treasure hunt with our students and it was great to play lots of different games. I hope that those of you who did come had a lot of fun! I'm really looking forward to our summer field trip to Hakuba next month. I'm sure that we will all have a great time.

Last week I went to Shibu Onsen to stay in a traditional ryokan. The onsen there were really relaxing and the traditional Japanese food was absolutely delicious. I also saw a monkey! I can't wait to go back there in winter because I'm sure the snow there will be beautiful.

Speak to you all soon!

From,

Matt  

Well, it's official. As of Thursday, it is now Summer. There are many people who are happy with this. If you are one of those people, I am happy for you!

I am not one of those people.

Summer is not 100% terrible, don't get me wrong. It has its good points. I like the chirping of the cicadas. It's great weather for nighttime walks. The World Cup is in full swing. There are many fun events, like fireworks shows and the Matsumoto Bon Bon festival.

But from sunrise to sunset, I have no desire to be outside. So what's an active, energetic, but shut-in dude to do during the day?

Well, I need to spend more time studying Japanese. でも、やりすぎと調子が悪くなりますよね。 So, I did a little project the other weekend.

Ta-dah!



Plenty of time to get some darts practice in, in the comfort of an air-conditioned room.

(And speaking of events, just a reminder that Summer Games Done Quick starts Monday. I've written about it before. Donations go to Doctors Without Borders -- 国境なき医師団. Event can be watched in English here: (link), and if you want some Japanese commentary, go here: (link). It runs 24 hours a day for a week, so check it out!)

--Josh