Saturday in the willage Sundays festival of not so much

So I got to sleep in a bit, then got a call telling me to get my butt down to the city. So I toodled in my car and met up with Sarah. We looked at second hand shops that were fabulous. My wardrobe could make me millions over here. Too bad it is in IOWA. I found my cowboy boots that would look perfect on me. I resisted. If they are there next time, watch out. Then some Indian food that was also delish. I didn't make it to Takahashi like I planned because I barely made it through the tunnels driving home. Just kidding, but I was tired.

Sunday
I was told by many that Tobansai is one of the top three festivals in Okayama. I think not. I was up and ready to go on Sunday waiting for the noise of people and drums. (I heard more on Saturday from the little kindergarteners) I checked out the shrine and met up with the poor souls also witnessing this day. I think the mummy hid all of the spectators.

This time I was a celebrity because most of my elementary was there and I heard "Burrito sensei" everywhere I turned. This festival was supposed to have archery- nope, a kid that was chosen to be the Golden Child was supposed to ride on a horse- nope. (He fell off the day before and hit his head and broke his leg. Hence all of the sirens and noise from the day before). So no boy riding a horse- bummer.
Kamotaisai Tobansai
Shrines made of gold just crappy looking
# of Shrines 8 3 but only enough people to carry 2
People Lots nil
Shaking of the shrines Yes yes -drunkards almost dropping them.
Horses 0 3
Running boys 0 2
Thugs 0 1

All in all it was an alright day, but doesn't compare to Kamotasai. You probably won't see me at another Tobansai.

Some of my little volleyball girls playing the flute. And the boys under the dragon doing the dance for the shrine. I don't know the meaning behind it all, but the boys were sweaty when they were done.

The horse The shrine and the tipsy men trying to get it under the gate?