28 June 2015: Rest Day And Culture Activity

Unlike the other days at the academy, sundays are a lot different. First, the children had the option to sleep in this morning. There was a three hour flex time from 9-12 where students had the option of attending church service, going to bible study with Chung Senpai, or to hang out and study with friends in the lobby. Students went to lunch and attended language class, the students went to an RA taught culture class where they learned about Japanese food, mascot characters, or Japanese games shows! Following dinner, the students participated in a culture activity where they made Hac

himaki (鉢巻), which are Japanese head scarfs, and Uchiwa (団扇), a type of fan. Painting the fans were very fun, and everyone came up with super unique and creative ideas!!! Also, today was Camryn-san's 16th Birthday!!!! Everyone gave her birthday greetings and made sure that she had a special day!

Lauren San:)  

4 July 2014: Independence Day Celebration

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GJA Students preparing to walk in the parade in their hachimaki and happi

GJA Students singing songs in Japanese and waving to spectators during the parade

Yesterday, the Academy participated in Ashland’s Independence Day Parade. Students sang and greeted all the crowds with smiles and our group’s favorite word, yahhou! Afterword, we all hung out at the carnival. Some enjoyed crepes while others sipped on strawberry lemonade. Last night, the sensei called us all outside for what was listed on our schedule as “Rajio Taiso Part 2”. Lawless sensei had described to us how difficult it was the night before. Nervously, we all lined up and tried to mimic Otani Sensei’s complex movements. To our relief, it was all a prank! Sakamaki Sensei can out with all the ingredients for s’mores. The students celebrated the Fourth of July with s’mores, dancing, and some casual sports games. 

Today (7/5), we started our weekend with language class. The advanced class practiced shodo, while the beginners learned vocabulary and practiced their song for the closing ceremony. Later tonight, we will be enjoying our second movie night!

- Lindsey

GJA Students blowing bubbles, dancing and celebrating Independence Day