Shellmound and Museum Day

Today was a very busy day. Have I said that everyday? Well, it's true. After re-drying my jeans very early this morning, we were allowed to dress in casual clothes for a day of site-seeing in Chiba City. The first stop was the Kasori Shellmound Site where archeologists have uncovered shellmounds from the Jomon Age (between 10,000 BC and 500 BC). Shell mounds are exactly what they sound like, mounds and mounds of shells. The guide explained that these mounds are not "garbage pits" but played a role in the Jomon people's ceremonies.

Jomon means "rope pattern" and is taken from the pottery pieces from that time period. Personally I think that the shell mounds are what they seem, mounds of discarded shells and don't read anymore into it. But what do I know? I really enjoyed looking at the different rope designs and would like to maybe do a project in the Transitions class. What do you guys think? Are you up for some arts and crafts?

After a "viking style" lunch (which is just a buffet), we went to the brand new -- like it only opened three days ago) Chiba City Museum of Science. The first thing we did was the planetarium which is housed in this incredible sphere several stories up that is supposed to resemble Jupiter. Those of you who know me well know that plantetariums and me don't mix well. I get dizzy and sick. Mom, how many times did dad have to take me out the of IMAX theaters? So, I leaned back and took a nice 45 minute nap. I know, I know, that's horrible. How rude! But what's ruder, sleeping in a dark room where no one can tell anyway because everyone is facing the ceiling or throwing up in their beautiful new planetarium?

We then had free time to enjoy the museum. Not being a very scientifically minded person (I am not a green) I typically struggle in these museums and the fact that most of the displays were in Japanese made it that much worse. But I managed to find a few things that I could handle. Check out this car! It is see-through so you can see how all the pieces like the steering column and other car stuff work together. Dad, this picture is for you!

The Chiba City Museum of Art is within walking distance to the Science Museum. After learning that one of VanGogh's paintings is almost an exact copy of a piece done by a Japanese artist, we left traditional art behind and explored Japanese pieces from the 1970s. We were told not to worry about what it all means, to just enjoy.

Thank goodness because I have no idea what these are supposed to represent. Most were just pretty and others, well, what is art? Is art art?

Before our host family tea party we had about an hour to visit the Art Museum gift shop (wood blocks for everyone!) and walk over to the Chiba Castle. It is not the original castle, but a smaller version that houses historical documents. It was incredible. The leaves were falling all around and was a very peaceful.

The Tea Party was really the highlight of the entire day. I met my host mother, Fusako. JFMF did an incredible job of placing us with host families. As I looked at each pair I couldn't help but notice how everyone kind of matched. Fusako lives with her husband as her two daughters are both grown. One is married and the other (I believe) is at the university.



She reminded me quite a bit of my mom. Right down to the pastel sweater and pretty necklace. Maybe I am just a bit homesick but the placement seemed perfect. During the reception we learned that Wendy and I had our picture published in the local newspaper in an advertisement for Inage High School (I will include a picture soon). It is us doing calligraphy, which Fusako enjoys and offered to help me with during my stay. I do feel a little used as my picture is helping to advertise the high school, but who cares? I made the paper!

I am sad to report that I have no dinner pictures or stories to share. After a viking lunch I just didn't feel like eating. Well eating dinner. I did purchase some vitamin water and cookies at the local drug store and came home to prepare for my speech tomorrow and write you. Yes, I am giving a speech tomorrow at the Junior High School. I thought I was just addressing the teachers but it turns out I am speaking at an all-school assembly. Ahhh!!! I better go practice my name again. And the principal's name too. And the school's name.

Wish me luck.