UNDOKAI 2011

Undokai or "Sports Day" took place on October 1, 2011.  It was bitter sweet because it is our last one.  It is one of the many "lasts" for us in Japan.  Undokai is something that is uniquely Japanese and magical to be involved in and something you just wouldn't see in the US.   The morning includes dance numbers, obstacle courses, and foot races.  And there is always one race specifically created for parents and children to participate in together.    Traditionally it seemed that always the mothers were the ones to participate, but this year it was all the Japanese Dads (unfortunately Neal was gone).

We were very proud of Quinn because he helped carry the Japanese flag out during the opening ceremony.  And did a great job with the parachute performance (which was his favorite).

Scarlett refused to wear her costumes during rehearsals but at home I got her to wear her asparagus hat and gloves but no luck with the cat tail.  But she did promise to wear them all on the day of Undokai -- and she did!   She seemed a bit overwhelmed when she saw all the people in the audience but performed most of her activities.  During our race together, she kept saying to me, "Let's get Quinn and go home."

The weather was nice and it was a great day!  We ended the day going out for sushi and ice cream.

Quinn, front right, carrying Japanese Flag.

Asparagus Hat

The dreaded cat tail.

Box Race

Relay Race

Shibata Sensei & Scarlett