This week, ACCESS celebrated Tanabata, the Japanese Star Festival. We began by learning the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, two star-crossed lovers separated by the Milky Way—or Amanogawa.
The children were captivated by the idea that real stars, Vega and Altair, represent the two characters. One student asked, “Do stars fall in love too?” while another hoped, “I think the magpies will help them cross the bridge this year!”
After the story, the children created beautiful tanzaku (wish strips), decorating them with drawings and heartfelt wishes.
We hung all our wishes on bamboo branches, and we hoped that the two lovers can meet again this year.
-Marilyn
