It was a very relaxing and peaceful experience. I enjoyed being the special guest because it was interesting to see everything up close and right in front of me. It was hard to sit up straight for the whole time, and I felt bad every time I moved because my clothes made a noise against the tatami mats. Each time the door opened, it opened almost half way, paused, and opened the rest of the way. Maybe this was because they wanted us to take in the moment and notice what was happening and go slowly. Everything had a purpose.
I thought the woman’s kimono was very beautiful and very authentic. There were moments where I was confused on what to do because I was the first person. I didn’t know if I should take the cookie the first time it was placed in front of me, and I didn’t know when to bow to the lady serving me. It was also nice to learn a few Japanese words such as, okasamui.
When I was given the green tea it looked much different than it did in my mind. This was the first time I