On Thursday night, I popped into my local shop to get some essentials, when I bumped into a woman who works at the boarding school next door to me. She invited me to join some of the kids on a hike from Tamoto to Shippeno on Saturday. Where, you ask, is Shippeno? Shippeno is about a 2hour walk into the mountains from my house. I said yes.
Shippeno is essentially 5 houses tucked away on the side of a mountain and the youngest resident is probably about 70 years old.
It was a really nice walk, and at the end of it, we were welcomed by three Obaachan - grandmothers – and we had lunch with them. I think the kids enjoyed it and I certainly think the ladies welcomed the company of the children.
After this, however, my day was not over. I was invited to one of my students birthday parties. It was a really wonderful occasion and I managed to get her the CD she wanted, so maximum brownie points for me. I also ended up getting christmas gifts from the family. Did I mention that I love Yasuoka?
Janice: These are truly beautiful pictures of what is obviously stunning scenery. What a walk! Keep posting. I am so enjoying the armchair travel following your exploits.