you know it's fall in japan...

...when the fruit basket looks a little something like this.

sasha's birthday

Love you, Sasha! Happy day of your birth, friend.

east meets west

matsushima bay

party at cell group

tea ceremony

Last Sunday, I went to Matsushima for a tea ceremony exhibition with a student of mine, her mother, and her grandmother. I enjoyed it a LOT! I am really interested in tea ceremony and have only started to learn, but still really enjoy the beauty of the ceremony.

We started by viewing a demonstration on how to tie the obi for kimono by yourself. The belts can be tied in front to a certain point, twisted around to the back, and tightened (with another belt). This particular instructor made it look simple, but something tells me this sort of thing does become second nature until you've done it many, many times.

We watched two types of green tea ceremony performed on a platform, later being able to drink the tea and eat the rice cakes. The first time we watched, I practiced turning the cup three times in my palm and drinking all the tea in three sips. I did a better job the second time, but will be needing to go back next time for more practice.

There was a moment where one of the students performing the ceremony got a little mixed up with hand motions. One incorrect movement in the long progression of intricate steps obviously makes it difficult to end up with everything in the right position. I was amazed at the intricacy.

After the ceremonies, we went to a wonderful restaurant in an older traditional house overlooking several beautiful Momiji (Japanese Maple trees).

Thank you, Lord, for the beauty you graciously allow us to enjoy. We are filled.