Matsuri Festival

This weekend I joined my friend Aiko for the Matsuri Festival in downtown Phoenix. I was glad to have my dear Japanese friend interpret all of the art, Kendo, Taiko drums, food, and more. Japanese culture is so beautiful! I am amazed at the artistry, meaning, and excellence that can be found in folding paper, self-defense, bonsai, and calligraphy. It is a culture I am excited to explore more and have even made a deal, of sorts, to visit her sometime next year. (You’ll have to ask Aiko for the details on these negotiations). I’ve been reading my great-aunt Ethel’s accounts of her time working in Japan. She spent almost a year exploring the countryside after evacuating from the South Korea embassy. I hope I’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the same places she did!

As you can see from the pic, I had fun at the festival!