Minori's report 

Below is a report from Minori, our Japanese Intern.

Strawberry Picking!!

One day at the end of October, I went "Strawberry Picking" with the Keeler family. For me, this was the first time picking fruit. 

It was a beautiful day, perfect for strawberry picking. When we first arrived at the farm, I could smell the sweet smell. There were so many red strawberries and fresh strawberry leaves all over the place. Just looking at the scenery was very relaxing. As we walked into the strawberry farm, we saw many ready-to-eat strawberries! While picking strawberries, Katherine and I ate some of them. They were so fresh and delicious. Katherine taught me many things, such as “look carefully at the whole strawberry and pick only the red ones, and make sure that no insects are eating them before you pick them.” We were able to pick three large packs of strawberries. It was very fun to experience the Australian spring. 

I added “Strawberry Picking” to “My list of things I want to do after returning to Japan.” I did some research and found that the best time to pick strawberries in Japan is from December to May. I am supposed to return to Japan in December, so I will be able to enjoy it again in Japan! Thank you very much for taking me strawberry picking! I hope you all go and pick fresh and delicious strawberries too!

Lovely Birthday Present in Kalinda!!

In October, I turned 30 years old. In my last newsletter, I wrote about my surprise birthday party, and then I experienced a wonderful surprise at Kalinda as well! The day after I returned from my Uluru trip, I went to school and to my surprise Libby (Mrs Shaw) said, “Minori, happy birthday!” and gave me a bouquet of beautiful yellow roses! I was so happy. I didn't think she knew my birthday, so I was very surprised. Then, holding the bouquet with great care, I opened the Japanese class and to my surprise, Simone had prepared a lamington cake and cute balloons on my desk. She said, "Happy Birthday!” This is the second surprise today! Moreover, when I looked at the whiteboard in the classroom, it was beautifully decorated especially for the birthday! This is the third surprise! My heart was filled with surprise and happiness from this morning. I felt, “Oh, what a happy day it is today, I am so happy to turn 30 years old in Australia." And more! I received various wonderful gifts from the students, including a birthday card made by 4AR and the origami Totoro made by one of the Grade 3 students. They are all treasures. Thank you so much! What a warm-hearted and friendly school! I am so happy to be able to live surrounded by the staff and students of Kalinda. I have one month left, and I still want to make more wonderful memories with everyone.