This and That and The Other

Hello strangers.  Yes, I am still alive.  Sorry for being in absentia for so long.  A lot has been going on in the last two months.  I have been filling my days with photo opportunities, site seeing trips, crafting, friends and eating out.  Just to name a few.  I'll give you a little taste.

In May we traveled by train with friends to visit Takayama.  The following pictures are of Hida no Sato which is full of restored homes and buildings brought together to demonstrate life in the Edo period, (1603 - 1867).  There were many handcraft demonstrations in the buildings.  You can see more information about it here. 

 This magnolia was magnificent.

Later in May I happened upon the rose garden in full bloom at our local park.  I went to take pictures of the iris, which were not yet ready.  The roses did not disappoint. 

I think the parasols just add to the beauty.  I've recently embraced the tradition of sun protection.

I love to find artists in various locations.  I didn't want to bother this gentleman, but I should've asked to take a closer picture of his artwork.  Sometimes I see a sketcher on the subway drawing people.  You have to be fast to do that.  I had the opportunity to make pottery recently.  I even tried the potter's wheel.  I think my bowl was kind of wonky in the end.  We also painted a bowl that was already fired.  I think I should be receiving it this week and was told it turned out beautifully.  I can't wait to see it.  

 Even the parking lot has pottery everywhere.

 I tried to paint a poppy.  Who knows what it ended up looking like.

This group represents Japan, America, Canada, France, Mexico and Belgium.
I am taking every opportunity to embrace Japan as you can see.

*Edited to add a photo of my finished rice bowl.  I'm happy with the way it turned out.