We spent many weeks cleaning and preparing the space, and even had near 40 volunteers over the past couple months stay at and clean the Share House with us. Many thanks to everyone who pitched in so far!
This is the 5th or 6th time, it seems, that we have collaborated with Ishikoi, who puts on such events all around Ishinomaki. Many thanks to the Ishikoi staff, and especially to Toda-san for being our number one supporter!
The lamps turned out beautiful, as usual, and we were extra fortunate to have the vines we use, kudzu, in bloom at this time. The flowers are so fragrant and sweet, and adorning one of our finished lamps with a vine cutting added a certain elegance and charm.
Thank you to all of our students who came from far and wide, and from Ajishima too!!! May your lamps bring light to you and your loved ones!
We are basically done with lamp workshops for this season because we are out of the raw materials (vines) to make the lamp frames. We will likely harvest more this winter once it gets cold enough and the water naturally drains out of the vines. In the meantime, we will be starting renovations on the the Share House soon (maybe tomorrow!) and proceeding little by little, time, energy, volunteer help, weather and funds permitting!!!
Thank you all so very much!