Keeping you posted....

We continue to get updated about the Daiichi plant, we're not surprised to learn that 300 retirees (scientist and engineers with years of experience) have volunteered to work within the plant.

The willingness to sacrifice for the future generation is powerful.

Meanwhile 300 miles away, it seems like a huge privilege to experience this city.

May 25th (last Wednesday, out of order) We started the day at the Honshin Earthquake Museum. I was so caught up in the exhibit that I didn't take any photos.

 I am in awe of how this society rebuilt in 16 years.

Afterwards we visited the Art Museum.

The building was a piece of art itself. The kids aren't half bad either (if I do say so myself).

Hey Mom, this place is made for us. Footbaths outside the mall to relieve your aching feet.

Matt got in on the fun!

Spencer and I hit it again on the way back (while Hannah and Matt shopped).

 Kobe is known for their sweets and breads. Hannah found a tasty crepe.

There are fun differences all around us. Look at these wavy escalators.

 

June 1st While Matthew taught, the kids and I ventured up the mountain.

Four beautiful waterfalls.

 An Herb & Flower Museum at the top.

 Crazy kids sprinkled throughout....

 All of the sudden I had three.

 Leave it to my girl to look down occasionally and catch the smallest of creatures below us.

 Half way down the mountain was a delightful greenhouse with.....

You guessed it......a footbath. I could live here!

 Here's my joy of a boy!

Hannah retrieved clippings from the gardeners to put into her hair.

We arrived home to greet Matt from his 14 hour day.

     We have a worship space in our bedroom, partly Shinto, partly Buddhist.....last night I had the low light of the worship space turned on....I was tucking in Spencer and he was looking at the focal point and he said, "Let's not forget our prayers." In 1992 I was working at Eden UCC in Edwardsville, the pastor and I were looking at the bylaws of the church. There was a section on how each member was supposed to have their home worship space and be open that any of the leaders of the church could visit it. At that point in time, we were joking around with how many of our households (as well as our own) wouldn't pass "inspection."

It seems like a treasure to have our days filled with experiences in which to be thankful. It seems completely unfair with a looming background of the Daiichi plant and an earthquake ruined Sendai. The beauty and fragility of life seems to be the focus of our prayers. Much love! Amy