This and That - Weekend Edition

Beautiful Himeji Castle in Himeji, Japan

Hello Weekend!  What a great feeling it is to look forward to the weekend especially after a really full week.  As I reflect back on this week, my heart is drawn to our friends in Japan.  This week marks two years since a massive earthquake and the resulting tsunami changed lives forever in Japan. So much was lost.

Out of the ashes of those dark days in Japan, there are some very beautiful transformations taking place. This week, one of our sweet friends, Sari, graduated from college.  She was asked to address her fellow students during the graduation ceremony.  We are so proud of her! She is going to be an amazing kindergarten teacher.  You go girl!

Pete had the honor of attending our friend Asuka's wedding back in September of last year.  Asuka was the very first Japanese student that we hosted almost ten years ago.  She will be a mommy this year!

Our very special friend Ayumi was married last month too!  It seems like just yesterday she was in college and playing practical jokes on us!  We love you Yumi!

Our dear friend Mutsumi has been able to visit us twice over the past two years, our time with her is always precious.  We miss you!

In these two years following the tragedy in Japan, we have heard stories and seen first-hand the power of love in action in Japan. Stories of sacrifice, perseverance, and triumph.  Stories of hope.  

As you head into your weekend, here are some links to a few of those stories.  Enjoy!

I am so touched by this gorgeous Japanese jewelry hand-made by the ladies at The Nozomi Project from shards of pottery left from the tsunami.

These men and women are the ultimate volunteers.

Powerful! Before and after pictures of Tohoku.

Two years later and CRASH is still loving on Japan.  

Hugs, 

Melissa