Farewell to Lara

We wish you all the best, Lara. 

Congratulations, Jose!

Saying Farewell

Sadly we had to say farewell to my mother-in-law on January 20. My cousin from Kokura who is about my age also passed away, and two good friends had surgeries a few weeks ago. I hope that spring will bring good health and energy to everyone. 

January 13: birthday cake in class?!?

January 13 was a presentation day in my seminar class but, if I remember correctly, for the students it  was a day to celebrate Yuiko's and Haruka's birthdays as well. I don't remember eating cake though....

Apple pie

Our first apple pie of the year with lots of apples from Akita Prefecture. Thank you, Abe-san.

Christmas day at home

Lots of strawberries from Togane. 

A recent beautiful plate I was able to purchase. 

Trying to learn from Furukawa-san....

Graduate School students

On December 22, the students in my graduate school class also had a gift exchange. I received a cute green boot-shaped bag full of things I love from Mat.

Portuguese Language Mentors

On December 16, some of the students attending the Portuguese language mentor program and all the mentors had a gift exchange. My gift was VERY Brazilian

I gave her a Panettone made in Brazil. 

End-of-year party with the Extension students

As always, the party on December 18 was a success with a lot of delicious food and great company. Unfortunately not all members of the class could be present. 

End-of-year party with the 3rd-year students

Lots of gifts. 

No, this is not a hat. 

Lots of food.

Long Time No See

For various different reasons--including technical problems with this account--I was not able to write for quite a long time. I am planning to catch up this month.