The End of Week 1!

We rounded out our week by taking a day trip to Pipestone, Minnesota.  We took a beautiful highway drive through the cornfields of South Dakota and Minnesota, though most of the students wouldn't know it because they fell asleep.  :)  I don't blame them; they've had an exceptionally busy week!

Our first stop was Pipestone National Monument, which is protected land.  Here, enrolled Native American members of federally-recognized tribes may quarry for the red pipestone found deep in the earth.  The Park Rangers welcomed us warmly, we watched a brief video about the sacredness of this place, and then we toured the grounds.

Maki and Mizuki in front of traditional Native American garb:

A pipestone carver giving a cultural demonstration:

The whole gang on the trail:

Hiawatha Lake:

At the falls:

Yui, Mamiko, Yuu, and Mizuki:

Kanako taking a picture of one of the native plants.  Kanako told me she enjoys being out in nature and that she could be feel the spirituality here.

After the monument, we went for lunch at Lange's, a delicious American diner.  The students ordered everything from hamburgers to taco salads and pasta to chocolate pie.  Here is Teacher Amy with Kanako, Natsumi, Mizuki, and Yume:

While at the diner, many people stopped by our tables to visit with the students.  The students were able to carry on lengthy conversations, and they met a lot of new people!

Our final stop in Pipestone was a large gift shop, where this photo op awaited us:

Week 1 was a great success, and I have had so much fun with the students!  Thanks to the students, host families, Jacy and Amber in the International Student office, and especially, co-teacher Amy, for making this a great first half of the program!