Sakura season is here and life is good.
Just outside our apartment is a river that winds its way through the heart of Funehiki. Everyday we get to walk by it, and though it's been somewhat rainy for the past few weeks we finally had a few gorgeous days in which to get a few pictures of the beautiful cherry blossoms we're surrounded by. Spring is finally here. The sakura, or cherry blossom, is welcomed with all the fanfare and excitement of ...well, there's just nothing to compare it to in the states. All of Japan reports on the daily progress of the cherry blossoms during the few weeks they are blooming. It's on the news, everyone talks about it. There is a 1500 year-old tree near us which people from all over Japan swarm to see. The "Sakura Watch" starts in the warmer southern cities, like Tokyo, a week or two ago, and then meanders its way up the country. Just now, in Funehiki, the blossoms are full, and because of more rain, beginning the slow snowy process of losing the leaves they seem so recently to finally have acquired. It's all a little bit magical.
By way of update, we're doing really well. It's been really nice for Hannah and I to be on the same schedule. Actually, this is the first week that we're really able to appreciate it, but we're liking the extra time together. It's nice that the weather is getting warmer. We're ready for Spring. Hannah is still getting used to her new job. I'm feeling more connected to the new teachers at my school. The new teachers have settled in, and are doing great. The team as a new whole is beginning to form (though we're still awaiting the return of our friend and teammate Jeni from America). The new Bible study is under way. We're already planning for our big "Easter" program in June, and thinking over what to do with our summer vacations. We're ready to kinda find the routine again. Anyway, that's enough for now. We miss everyone and are thinking of you.
Check out the new pictures in our webalbum (linked at the right).
God bless,
Adam and Hannah
