Tuesday, December 19, 2006

A Lazy Sunday

On our final Sunday in Japan before heading overseas for Christmas, we drove down to the infamous 月の庭 (Tsuki no Niwa) for a gorgeous organic lunch. Afterwards, we finally stopped to check out the egg vending machine on route 306 (wonders never cease) where you can buy fresh eggs in string bags, and sauce, for a steal. Then, we paid a visit to もみじ谷 (Momiji-dani - Maple Leaf Valley), a little-known but beautiful autumn leaf spot in the foothills of the Suzuka mountains. The leaves are very late this year, so there were still some magnificent flames lingering in the treetops. Seems like Yokkaichi is finally betraying its secrets.

egg vending machine

Momiji dani



tea fields
daikon sun-drying

Merry Christmas

Once again, we held the annual Fiona-and-Sam Christmas Party in deepest darkest Yokkaichi. Many gaijin gathered for an afternoon celebration, and much mulled wine and cake was consumed. (We didn't even disturb the neighbours too much, despite the walls being made of paper.) Afterwards, we bewildered the locals by stumbling en masse onto the local bus, drunk, to head into town for karaoke. 'Tis the season, after all.
Matthew and Fern

Craig and Sam


Maggie and Lindsay
Rachel and Maggie
Maggie and her crew
Marina

Monday, December 18, 2006

I Choose Not to Run

On Dec 2nd Fiona participated in the annual eacher "fun" run. She ran 1.2km. She survived. It was a proud day.





Thanks to Craig and Fran for the pics.