日本が大好き

In July, Peter and I were very lucky to visit Japan for a week. Whilst it was only a short time it was the BEST time. My parents are amazing and still spoil me. Sending Pete and I to Japan of course was no exception. Mum just tells me that I have to look after her and dad really well in their old age, though I doubt I'll ever come close to sacrificing as much for them as they have done for me.
It's fitting that on Father's day I'm posting about one of the greatest presents I've received from my parents, and thanking them for knowing how desperately homesick for Japan I have been, and for them wanting to cure my homesickness (the kind that doesn't even involve them)!

A love of Japan and her people is what initially connected Peter and I (not just the sparks of love at first sight). It was Japan and our missions that we first talked about, got excited about and laughed about.
The trip to Japan TOGETHER meant so much to us. It connected us yet again and brought us so many more memories to share.

My gorgeous friend Mami made us a sign

Mami and I at Osaka Castle

Mel embracing the costume experience

Watch out hun!

Osaka Castle

And again

With Bishop Ueda and his gorgeous family

Experiencing Ramune - exploding fizzy drink I think you would call it!

A Japanese meal with family

When I was living with my Aunty and Uncle in Willunga last year I kept promising them I'd cook them a traditional Japanese meal. Between moving out, getting married etc I never got around to it...Here it is a year later and I finally made good on that promise.
Me and Pete spent lots of time preparing all the food and had the best time making dumplings from scratch (except for the wonton wrappers).
For starters we had Miso soup, followed by Gyoza (Japanese dumplings) and then Okonomiyaki (savory seafood pancake). It was so yummy, and the company was even better.
We had my Uncle Steve and Aunty Mel with their kids Matt and Deanna and my Grandma.

Here are some photos. I'll post the recipes tomorrow in case anyone's interested in having a go...