Hi Mary,
I'm a teacher at ARICANA in Rosario ( Santa Fe ), Argentina and I've been teaching here since 1978.
Thanks a lot for having sent me your students' movies . They are a good example of a culture different from mine. Have you seen my students' films?
We are finishing classes this week, so maybe next year we can work together and share our own experiences.
Kind regards,
Leda Siburu

Hi Leda (great name!) and students,

Your movies about Japanese culture were added to a wiki with similar movies made by students in Brazil and Argentina. Please check it out at
Not only was making movies fun, but it was also a great way to learn and share cultures!

Mary

Oh, I made a mistake with my comment! Here is where you can find the movies:

http://cartoonfestival.pbwiki.com/


Mary

Finally, I would like to share my story about serendipity with you. Students, if you would like to share your story, please do so (remember, it is extra credit!)

Today, I went to Sanjuusangen-do in Kyoto. I had a terrible headache and didn't feel like going, but I went anyway because I really wanted to see this National Treasure. We walked around the grounds and looked at the amazing statues! Then, I found out that this temple is most famous for Yoji-josuiku; and according to the brochure, in January visitors can go there for a ritual involving a willow stick and sacred water which rids the body of pains and illnesses. Even though I wasn't there on the day of this ritual, I could buy a "No Headache" charm there, and I felt relieved!!

Mary