This is the inside of our church, Kokubunji Baptist. This was an afternoon performance of Christmas music where our pastor had the opportunity to share the true story of Christmas. The flowers have now been replaced with the Advent candles. The sancutary holds about 100 and is full most Sundays. Their English translation of the service is usually done by those who have lived in the states recently.




Here I am with Norico and Yuki on our volunteer day at the Ronald McDonald House.


Yuki san had brought us some brochures in English of places she thought we would like to visit.

We have a good time during break trying to learn each other's language.


Here we are in togas as guests for a "Roman feast".

Our friends' boys had finished their homeschool study on Rome and this was a culminating activity.

We certainly enjoyed their sharing of what they had learned and the foods that the Romans would have eaten during that time period.



Our English conversation class continues to grow and they really enjoyed the Christmas party we had after class. It's been rewarding to see their interest in English and to hear them use what they have learned.



"Santa" arrived at our local plaza.

He said he was from Finland- he spoke in English and the lady in white is his translator.

The children later had an opportunity to have their picture taken with him. The parents used their own camera and there didn't seem to be any charge.




Martin and I wish you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS....