Field Trip Friday: Japan State Visit

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Having to go back to work has been unbelievably hard on my family. One of the things that has eased the burn of the transition has been the amazing opportunities my job provides. So far, I’ve had the chance to shake hands with the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, hug the First Lady herself (more on that in a week or two!), and I’ve been able to attend some amazing events.

Just recently, the Prime Minister of Japan came to Washington, DC to visit, and my husband and I were able to attend the official welcome ceremony on the south lawn of the White House along with some of my co-workers.

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My husband and I, and two of my new friends! 

This event was particularly special to me, because it is the first (and so far, only) time I have had the privilege of hearing our President speak in person, and it was every bit as awesome as I had expected! Prime Minister Shinzo Abe also spoke. The music from the band was beautiful, and it was so neat to see all the service members in uniform standing together.

There were many more people in attendance than I had anticipated, and we were not as early as we should have been to nab the best seats in the house, but it was still magical to stand there and be a part of the event.

If you have some time, take a moment to check out the video. It would be a wonderful starting place to discuss our relationships with other nations with your high school students, and why events like this are so important to making foreign dignitaries feel welcome and important as we lay the groundwork for continued relationships with those leaders. Or, just look at all the ceremony and tradition on display!

I am just loving living in our nation’s capital, and being able to enjoy things like this!

P.S. A note if you ever get invited to an event at The White House: Show up early. Much earlier than you think you need to be. Be prepared to stand and wait a long time. Be patient…. and know it is worth it!

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