3-in-1

My supervisor scheduled 3 sayonara farewell parties at some of my elementary schools in ONE afternoon. If my math skills aren't as bad as my English skills at this point,..that means I said goodbye to some 400 people today. (like 400 handshakes, 400 'sayonaras', and 400 tearful smiles. It was just a blur of tears, high fives, really beautiful songs and photoshoots. Saying goodbye to these cute little peanuts is the worst. They just cling to your every appendage and heartstrings. but there's nothing worse than seeing children cry, especially when its the heartsick kinda crying...i feel i am letting these little people down. they must have been so confused, "why is anne, who LOVES us and LOVES Taneichi leaving us?" if i could have worked @ the elem schools everyday, i would stay in Taneichi for several years...but there are no ifs in this predictable, structured culture, so my time is up. its been fantastic! and years from now, it is these elementary students that i will both miss and remember the most. Nakano Elementary: A bird's eye view. Can you find me?
Okonai Elementary: The smallest school I visit & the coolest kids!
Shukunohe Elementary: a sea of light blue sweethearts

i think JET calls this "internationlization". i call it, being 'human' (or maybe "feeling-like-J. Lo-for a-day!) of course language is still a challenge, yes after ONE year of immersion. body language/gestures and personality can go a long ways, especially in this country where 'what you wear and how you present information' is more important than what is actually said. i think this experience has made me an even better communicator. Japan has been a learning experience alright...one that I will hold near and dear to me...forever!

3 more elem schools are scheduled for Monday...will the tears ever stop!?