Girl's Day

March 3rd was Girl's Day here in Japan. On Girl's Day a doll festival is held. Platforms are covered with red carpet and ornamental dolls are placed on it representing the emperor, empress, attendants and musicians dressed in the traditional dress of the time period of 794 -1185. The dolls were believed to be able to contain bad spirits. Ben's school had their dolls on display this last week. What a neat tradition.

The Emperor and Empress

Swim School

At Ben's school they offer swimming lessons through their swim school. On Tuesday my mom and I went to see him in action.

Anna and Ben waiting for class to begin.

Before class begins they throw water on the window of the viewing area to get the condensation off.

Getting ready to start.

Ben started to get a little tentative about halfway through class. It was so strange for me to see because he is always so fearless. I have to admit though that it was nice to see him for once stepping back and watching and not going full speed ahead.

Anna and Ben during free play at the end.

This is a video of Ben swimming. He is with the teacher in the back and goes under and swims to the second platform and then crosses over by the male teacher.

Nagasaki Lantern Festival

We ventured down to Nagasaki on the 28th to see the Lantern Festival. The Lantern festival is held to celebrate the Chinese New Year. The main section of the festival is held around Chinatown but there were several other sites with beautiful displays in the surrounding areas, within walking distance. We weren't sure how crowded it would be but we decided to brave it anyway. The day was beautiful and we had a ton of fun even if we were surrounded by a ton of people!

On our way to the site.

Nana in front of a Shrine

We were constantly mobbed by people. This man followed us up the hill walking backwards so he could take pictures.

Even the younger boys were enamoured.

And more...

And more...

Checking out Jane's kids...

Ben breakdancing.

Cherry Blossoms!

Ben and Grace checking out the Paccino Parlor.

Misc. with Nana 1

These are just various pictures of our time with Nana...