What happened to October & November?

Well I guess you have figured out that I have been a busy lady lately. I am so behind on my blogging and with the year is ready to come to an end. I had to get a few last thoughts written before my memory expunges them all. I have promised myself with 2010 upon us to be better about keeping it updated. October and November came and went...though we were really busy, I did manage to capture a few pictures. October brought International Scout Day. This is a big day here in Japan. Being the Committee Chair for our Cub Scout Pack it put me on the planning committee along with my leaders to help plan, coordinate and execute this day. I have to say it was a GREAT day for the time and energy we put in to it. We were in charge of the registration table and 4 games. There were 600+ scouts and their parents/leaders and 100 girl/boy scouts from Misawa. Most of the Japanese scouts came from Northern Honshu.

The day began with registration and opening ceremonies to include the Japanese and American anthems sung by some brave little scouts. The American scouts greeted the Japanese scouts at the door with waves and smiles.

Here are a few of our boys from Pack 9 waiting for opening cermonies to get started.

We had rotating game stations every 10 minutes for about 1 1/2 hours. There were lots of fun games and everyone enjoyed interacting with the Japanese. It is amazing how much fun we can have despite the language barrier. Smiles and laughter were generous at game time.

Lunch offered a traditional American hot dog, chips, a drink, and a cupcake. Lunch entertainment showcased the American Taiko performers from Misawa and some of the Japanese troops .

After lunch we exchanged trinkets, food, and uniform accessories. Joshua made out...he was able to exchange his American Bear slide for a really cool Japanese Slide.

This is Joshua and his friend Marcus with one of the Japanese Scouts they met in their group.

Just thought the Japanese Girl Scout uniforms were adorable and these ladies graciously let me take their picture.

After the exchange, we did a tug of war....

The Japanese really get into it and practice- you can tell. Traditionally the Japanese adults beat the American adults..... except for this year. We won it!!!

At closing ceremonies, we did a gift exchanges and kudos. We gave them insulated mugs with "Misawa" printed on them and the two country flags. Also we included a Christmas ornament and some chocolate. One of our scout leaders did a great job stamping the card and bag.

While we were cleaning up it started to pour rain and then stopped almost instantly, like a black cloud passed over. When me & my girlfriend left the building, we both saw this beautiful rainbow. Of course my camera was put up, so I borrowed her picture to share and have as a memory of this day...thanks Ginger!