March 17^th, 2009: It is never easy to say goodbye. It is especially difficult when the bonds are so close. Because the families welcome you into their homes as part of their family, it is inevitable to establish such attachments. As such, travel days are always filled with tears of sadness, joy, and love.

Some will put on a brave face and pose for final photos, while others simply cannot hold back their tears at the thought of separation.

As we move onward with our journey, tears will always follow in our wake.

March 16^th, 2009: Suita, Osaka offers many sites and attractions for personal day. There is shopping, Sumo, Universal Studios Japan, whale sharks, Kyoto, and much more. It is impossible to go wrong with any choice but a relatively short trip to Kobe is akin to a trip to heaven for the taste buds.

Kobe beef is world famous, with rumors of cows being fed sake and receiving massages. After savoring every tender morsel of the Kobe beef, I am inclined to believe the rumors of well pampered cows.

“I died and went to Kobe.”

Personal days, a chance to kick back, relax, and eat Kobe beef!

March 15^th, 2009: Grace (Canada) sings “Kizuna”, an original WCJ song, with superb prose at the “Thank-you event”. The different flags held by each participant complete the international atmosphere of our group.

It takes great courage to sing on stage but it requires special people to sing in a foreign language! Most of us are not fluent in Japanese yet we are trying our best to learn Japanese songs and dances. The effort we put into the event is all for the host families and the city that welcomed and hosted us with opened arms. Although we are not perfect, our intentions and efforts are greatly appreciated. Professionals, we are not, but we performed with all our hearts. 🙂