In Japan, Valentine's Day is when women give chocolate to men they like. On February 14th, men have little more to worry about than gracefully accept said chocolate. A month later on March 14th (White Day), the men are supposed to give marshmellows to the women they like. Whoop de doo. While the men receive something solid that contains antioxidants, women get airy goop that causes cavities. Just one of the ways Japan has yet to fully embrace equality for women. Hmph.
Despite my disapproval of the way Japanese celebrate Valentine's Day, Thursday night found me madly melting chocolate in my kitchen to make fudge for the occasion. All this despite the fact that I spent all of about 10 mins of today with my Valentine (hmmm seems a like this has happened once before :-/ ) As far as excuses go, Keizo had a pretty good one...today was the last game of the rugby season; the one that would determine their team ranking. Last year they were 12/14, and I am happy to report that with their win today, they moved up one whole spot and are 11/14 teams in their league. Whoo hoo!! A win at the end of a losing season was a nice change, and in addition to the chocolate, my Valentine's gift to Keizo is letting him spend it with his first love, rugby.
[P.S. He's making it up to me next weekend, when we are going to take a much overdue vacation to a traditional Japanese inn, complete with private hot spring bath. Ooo la la!!]
But, lest you think my weekend has been lonely, let me tell you about our fantastic Valentine themed NPP dinner on Friday! Eight lovely ladies from around Kurume battled the wind and rain to dine at Artino and exchange "Secret Cupid" gifts.
Mmmm pink ice cream!
Happy V-day lovely ladies!
