Great Lakes

The beach we went to. creds: https://www.in.gov/dnr/lakemich/ 

One of the best things about living in the Midwest is the great lakes! Sure lake Ire is polluted pretty badly, but the one I'm most familiar with, Lake Michigan, is pretty darn amazing! I spent today there with some friends, and let me tell you there is nothing like a hot day at Lake Michigan! If you are an exchange student coming to the great lakes region, you definitely have something to look forward to!

Summer School

I have officially completed a week of Summer school. Although I like Summer school's intensive learning, it's not fun when there are blue skies and sunshine outside while we're outside learning about the altitude of triangles and writing proofs. This being said, for anyone considering going on exchange I would highly recommend taking summer school. One nice thing about taking Summer school is that you don't have time to forget the material you learn in between quizzes. Also, you get to meet and hang out with people from other schools. If you're a project-oriented person you would probably like the one subject schedule.

Do you know where you're going yet?

I do not yet know where in Taiwan I'm going. Or any of the details for that matter. When I'm leaving, who my host family is, what district I'm in, or if I have any siblings. None of those questions have been answered. I have friends who found out in where they are going in April! I've got to admit: it's driving me crazy! I'm hoping that I'll hear something soon!

Exchange Cat pouting

Willow's graduation

Yesterday was our last day of school, today was my sister, Willow's high school graduation! I would like to give her a shout out, and say: Congratulations Willow, I'm so proud of you! Have fun in your next years of college! If anyone else would like to say something to her, her email is willowcrisovan@gmail.com

Zing Japanese Fusion

 Recently I was talking up the restaurants of South Bend, but I should also shine some light on Mishawaka, our neighboring city. Zing is one of those places where the food is better every time you go. I took some pictures of our lunches so you can see for your self.

Forest's Bento Bow lunch with teriyaki Sea scallops (lower left), includes California rolls (upper right), rice, and a delicious shrimp dumpling (upper left corner)

My Bento box lunch with beef negimaki, or scallions wrapped with beef in a sweet sauce. this meal also comes with miso soup and a fresh, crisp salad.

Mom's lunch of salmon rolls with nigiri and sashimi.

Willow and I with the outdoor seating in the background 

Hot tea brews in front of you with the help of a small candle lit under the pot.

Zing's  location has lovely outdoor seating 

Harness Racing

For my cousin's 18th birthday we went to see live harness racing at Northville Downs because he could officially bet on the horses. I had never been, it was a lot of fun. Harness racing is, unfortunately, becoming a thing of the past as more and more tracks close. Even Northville is closing next year. 

 

"Best Week Ever"

This week was Best Week Ever in South Bend. Pretty much it's a bunch of events scheduled in one week. It involves a parade, the Rebel Art Festival, a block party, the Sunburst run, fireworks, and quite a bit more. I didn't go to all of this, but I did go to the Rebel Art Festival and I went to see the fireworks, both of which were pretty cool. South Bend is introducing new ideas and slowly becoming fun. I remember when half of the downtown area was abandoned buildings. Now there are so many cool places to go downtown. If you are traveling through South Bend try one of the Downtown Restaurants. Each has so much character and personality it's difficult to dislike them. Personally, my favorite is Nom Nom Pho, and I would definitely recommend their Vietnamese cuisine. 

A dish from Nom Nom Pho Creds:http://www.onlyinyourstate.com/indiana/new-restaurants-indiana/

South Bend Fireworks. Creds:http://sbvpa.org/vpa-blog/best-week-ever/