Maren's Visit to Sendai in May

We have looked forward with excitement to our daughter Maren's visit to Japan.   Finally the day came for her arrival.  The 12 days she spent with us went so fast but we had a wonderful time with her and she was able to see some of the things we do and meets many missionaries and members.

She is finally here in Sendai after 24 hours of traveling.

 

 

Trip to Hirosaki

We took her to Hirosaki where the cherry blossoms were in full bloom and so beautiful. 

 She left her jacket home and it was quite chilly so she used her blanket all day. 

 We laughed about that but it kept her warm!

Octopus on a stick to eat!

We settled for a banana on a stick.

Cotton Candy

While Maren and I went inside the Hirosaki Castle,

we looked down and saw Dad talking to everyone. 

Scene out the window of the castle.  Beautiful trees!

Dad ate the octopus on a stick to our dismay!

Gary had an interview with a member at the church later in the day. 

Maren got to meet and love the missionary sisters who serve there.

Sunday at church, Sister Yamada interpreted for Maren and me. 

She and Maren became great friends.

Sisters Ono, Kimura Maren and Miura

This sweet sister in the Branch folded origami and gave it to us.

Hirosaki Branch

 



Maren and Sister Yamada

 

Koriyama District Activity

Cute castle clock in Koriyama

The flowers are in full bloom.

Maren played games with the Primary children and the Elders. 

My dear little friend, Sister Maruyama.

 



Sister ? always folds a rose out of paper when we see her.

The youth activity this day was to build the Tokyo Temple out of cardboard. 

This was the final product.  It was quite amazing.

Brother Yoshida's granddaughter was baptized that day. 

 

 

Meeting the Office Staff and our cook Sister Furukawa 

 

 

 

Trolly Trip Around Sendai

Beautiful trees in bloom in Sendai

In a bamboo forest.

With a sign like that, the temptaion is too great!

Maren asked this police officer if she could have her picture taken with him. 

He had to ask for permission to do it first.

 

 

Boat Ride To Matsushima

She bought her own subway ticket out of the machine!!

Standing on the subway.

Ice Cream is a must even if it was chilly outside!



On the boat where we saw over 200 tiny island in the water.  All of these little island actually protected Matsushima from the full blast of the tsunami.

The sign shows how high the tsunami water was. 

Brynlee and Jade will love all of these pictures of their Mom.

All of the heavy machinery in Japan are toy size but they

 can get into small spaces and get the job done!

 

 

 Trip to Zao for lunch



Zao is a rural area in the mountains.   Kokeshi Dolls are famous in the Sendai area and many are made in Zao.  This large one was impressive enough to have a picture with it.

 

We had lunch at the family restaurant of Koniko Shimai's family. 

She is a member from Izumi Ward and a Returned Missionary.

Sister Furukawa came the night before Maren left and brought her a beautiful Ukata (summer kimono).  She is a very generous, good lady and we love her.

Sunday morning, we put her on the plane back home.  We had a wonderful visit with her!!