2012 New Year Party

Last week the Sagamihara Friendship ladies hosted the ZaCSA {Zama Community Spouses Association} members to celebrate the new year in proper Japanese fashion.  Last years party was so much fun, I couldn't wait to see what they planned for us this year.  As much as I loved last year, this year was even better.  They completely outdid themselves this year!  The ladies were beautifully dressed in formal Japanese kimonos

the entertainment was amazing

we even got a turn to play 

This was actually my 2nd time getting to play Taiko drums.  I posted a video of me playing the drums last year HERE.

This year I got to play with one of my best friends and it was so much fun! {random side note, I love how my hair looked that day}

After trying Taiko for the 2nd time, I decided that I really enjoy the rush I get while playing and want to take lessons.  One of the ladies is helping me out and I start in 2 weeks! 

 and the food was delicious {as always!}

my friend just emailed me this photo of me digging into all the yummy food!

We played the same bean game as last year {you move different sized beans and peanuts from one bowl to another using chopsticks.  the smaller the bean, the more points they are worth}

 I'm proud to announce that for the 2nd year in a row I was a part of the winning team.  I kind of kick a$$ with chopsticks!

After our yummy lunch and the game, the ladies treated us to a beautiful singing performance

we had time for a few more photos before we had to head back to base

A group photo of all the ZaCSA members who attended

Melissa and me with all of the Friendship Sagamihara ladies {these are the awesome ladies we are blessed to teach on Wednesday's}

and us with this years President an VP, Eriko and Sachiko

On our way back, I had my 1st up close encounter with the protesters that sit outside of our base every Wednesday.  They post signs

and just sit there peacefully.  It's unlike any "protest" I've ever seen before.  I heard a story today that the protesters even call someone on base to let them know when they will be late.  I love that they can get their point across without shouting and violence.

I stopped by the mail room before going home and received the best surprise!

This came from Lauren, my brother-in-law's fiance {the one I have things in common with.  The one who told me about their wedding in person and not via her facebook status.  The one who was considerate enough to tell us way in advance of their plans so that we could plan to be there. The one I was secretly hoping would ask me to be in their wedding!!!!!!}.  I cannot wait!