I spent the greatest time in MFWI from February to May. Darling this program, I learned wonderful culture and history. Also, I had so many delightful memories. I studied abroad only four months, but the memories that I have were more valuable than other experiences in Japan. I'd like to tell you about my three favorite memories in the U.S.
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| Funny face monument |
Seattle trip was my most memorable experience. I am interested in Washington state's native culture. It was my first trip in America, so I was so excited. Seattle was a really beautiful and enjoyable place. I could also learn the history in there. One of my favorite places in Seattle is
Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. This museum is located on the campus of the University of Washington. It was a very beautiful place, and there were huge, funny and traditional monuments on the premises. Inside the museum, many kinds of art were on display. Some exhibits came from Japan, China, Korea and so many countries. However, I especially liked Native American art there. This museum collects the Northwest Coast native American art. A guide of the museum taught us about it. For example, every totem pole has stories, and their figures tell us about the history. This is really interesting for me. I like the totem poles faces so much. I can't explain why I like them, but they really attract me. I also like the designs of the native arts. The pictures also have some meanings. They tell us about the history and where the people came from. The museum guide showed us a design of cute bear. It was really pretty, so I can't forget that. I like it so much, so I bought a cute book and some post cards. I sent one of the post cards to my family. I like the culture of Washington. I wanted to stay in the museum longer. I wanted to know about it more deeply.
Easter day was also unforgettable for me. I enjoyed it with my RA, Lilli and her wonderful friends. Lilli, her boyfriend, Ruben and her best friend, Steven came to MFWI on that day. We enjoyed Easter egg hunting and played outside. My friends, Ruben, Steven and I played frisbee. It was a little windy, so it was a little hard to play it. However, it was very fun! My friend always couldn't catch a frisbee and she made strange voices every time she failed to catch it, so we were always laughing a lot. We also played Red Rover, like the Japanese game, Hanaichimonme. I heard the name first time. It was easy to play, but it was dangerous because people make smashing tackles. Actually, I slipped down on the grass, but it reminded me of when I was an elementary school student. It was a good experience, and I learned a new American game, so I was happy. I had a really good time. I want to play with them again.
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| So many people participated in Bloomsday |
Bloomsday was also wonderful experience. It was held on May 1. Naturally enough, I participated it for the first time. I didn't run, just walked, because I didn't want to miss that Spokane's great view and people cheering and performances. It was great sunny day, so it was an ideal day for a big event. I have never seen such a lively downtown. During the walking, I saw a lot of cute costumes, for example, Super Man, a banana, a princess and so many kinds of costumes. It was so fun to see characters I know. I also enjoyed eating. I ate two ice creams corns while the walking. My favorite was sandwich ice cream. When I ate it, I felt so happy so I regained my strength. After the Bloomsday, my friends and I ate fabulous lunch downtown. We ate Chinese teriyaki chicken, frozen yogurt and popcorn. It was little expensive, but the taste was fantastic! Actually, I enjoyed eating more than walking. I really want to participate in Bloomsday again next year. If I participate next time, I will run!
I spent a delightful time in the U.S. At first, when I was arrived here, everything was new for me, so I was surprised at everything. Now, also I still find interesting differences between Japanese culture and American culture everyday. I think this culture is really interesting because experiencing another culture broadened my outlook remarkably. I never get tired of learning American culture because this country is interesting! When I was in Japan, I thought four months sounds so long time, so I worried about my MFWI life. Actually, four months was too short for me. I want to stay here longer. Anyway, I will never forget these memories. These experiences are my most important and valuables treasures. I love America so much!!!
