Bonus - Junko Sakaguchi

Before going to Japan, I knew that I wanted a host family. I was paired with one through the Matsuyama International Center, but they have many kids so I wasn't always able to meet with them. Now, on one particular November 3rd 2024, I went to visit the Yamagoe Christian Church. As usual, I had to introduce myself in front of everyone. After service, one lady came up to me and told me that she loves California and visited Tehachapi! She showed me pictures and we exchanged contact information. She told me that she wanted to take me out to try local sushi. I said sure and we eventually did. Through our interactions I learned how extroverted she is and how much fun she is.

She is in her 70's, and her daughter and granddaughter both live far away in Tokyo. Her granddaughter is named Korisa, after a girl named Carissa who she met while visiting Santa Rosa. She still works, but she still has a lot of time to go visit other places. She actually went to a western protestant Christian Academy in Matsuyama, and many of her teachers were American.  

Over the course of studying abroad, she would take me to visit and eat at many places, but despite trying to pay her back, she never let me spend my money. I only have one picture of her, because I am a little nervous when it comes to taking pictures of other people. I am really glad that I met her, because she really helped me enjoy my time in Japan. She still messages me and tells me that she's waiting for me to come back. I'm glad to be her new "grandson."