March 3rd is a neat day in Japan. I don't remember this day last year as I was about to have a baby. Anyway, Hinamatsuri is the Japanese Doll Festival. Most Japanese girls (at least in the past) have a large collection of dolls to put on display. The dolls are arranged by order of "importance." The emperor and empress are on the top platform, and then attendants, musicians, and other supporters are on the lower platforms. This custom is to ensure a girl's growth and happiness. Most families start displaying their dolls in February. Legend has it that if the dolls are still on display on March 4, the girl will marry late in life.
One of my friends, Kazuko, gave Gracie a little doll collection. And here she is!
