Baseball & Names for You

A group of us are just back from a baseball game, and it was quite something to see how the Japanese people cheered in unison and even came together as a team, literally, when the pitcher was having a hard time. That was the biggest meeting on the mound this Bostonian has seen yet! But it seems folks are looking at the blog, so I want to assure you that your person is here and busy. This is an attempt to give you a sense of who is on the trip, briefly, and to see your loved one's name if you have not yet. Those who have already been mentioned have, well, already been mentioned. Some people want to email you, but we have been so busy they have not had time to get to my computer - which is available to all.

Maureen was a lively karaoke singer last night and is an energetic dancer, as well. Karen took 2 years of Japanese in college and fortunately was a member of the group who attended the baseball game tonight, both because she is a very personable gal, and because her Japanese came in handy. Also, the melatonin she took on the plane worked beautifully (thanks to Mom, apparently). Christina was one of the people who joined karaoke late last night and seemed quite happy to be there. She has been in an upbeat mood since our plane trip. We explored Japanese-style bathrooms at the airport and survived - we were a bit nervous after the many warnings. They have a spot to place your baby safely so you can do what you need to while the babe is safe. Nifty!

There are two Kates. One has blond hair and one has dark hair. I am very sorry to identify them that way. You may refer to me as the Emily with curly brown hair, or even the older Emily. None of us are really on a last name basis. I will research this conundrum tomorrow. Blond Kate, whom I have spoken to on several occasions, seems to be having an excellent time. Brunette Kate got up very early yesterday with her pal Lauren, and when I met them they were talking very quickly about a lot of topics and finished up with directions to Starbucks. Clearly they had spent some time there! They are usually smiling and laughing when I see them. Mary and Joy have been pals "forever," and have traveled quite a bit. Mary, like Steve, is staying longer because her daughter is coming to see her in Japan. Carolyn and Beth were with us at the baseball game. Now I am getting very tired and I apologize for any inequalities here.

Beth recommends having your picture taken in a tree - you will always look better. Carolyn is a very good sport about walking long distances, but then we all were today! Marissa was our last baseball group member and she is braving the heat with a positive attitude even though it is not her fave choice of weather.

I hope if you did not find your person's name you will write me. Sumimasen. Excuse me (if I made a mistake). We are all here, walking at what one of our tour guides calls "a Japanese pace " - very quickly - and trying to take it all in. Tomorrow: A Shinto shrine, a cram school, and dinner in Chinatown. Ariagato. Thank you.