Wednesday, May 09, 2007

You Say Goodbye, I Say Hello

~My last few days in Japan were a whirlwind of activity as I tried to smooth the way for the new teacher. I was sad to see all of my students for the last time, but I enjoyed giving them gifts and getting gifts from them. Many of them insisted on taking pictures, and I managed to get a few for myself:

^ Wo0-hoo! The final weekly "Hall Party".

^ Two of my "genki" high school girls. They were lots of fun, and I'll miss them!

^ Notice how they all hold up their fingers in a "V" for pictures. I think it's genetically programmed.

^ One of the few students I socialized with outside of class. He's cool!

--As per tradition, I had dinner with all of my coworkers, as a combined goodbye-David hello-new-teacher party. Afterwards, we went out to karaoke.

^ When I was in college, one professor nicknamed me "Devil Boy" because he could never take any pictures of his students without me making a face. I continue to live up to my reputation, Dr. Merck.

^ Some more of my friendly co-workers, including some of the comparatively-new teachers on the right.

Expect one or two more posts as I wrap up this blog with some reflections on my time in Japan. ~Oyasumi!