akazukin

doko kana?

2010-10-03T19:43:00.000-07:00

Any guesses to where we went last Sunday?

To be edited with the answer in a few days.

N.B. All photos by DH.

On Top of the World (part 1)

2010-09-19T13:55:00.000-07:00

Jun at 4307 meters.

Well not exactly on top of the world, but I think that Mount Evans, standing at 14,264 ft (4,348 m), is pretty high.

Last Memorial Day weekend Jun and I took a short trip around the Rocky Mountains. It was the first day of the year that the Mount Evans Scenic Byway was open. This byway is the highest paved road in North America.

It can get extremely cold, windy, and sunny so we made sure we were thoroughly prepared for any situation. Besides coats, sunscreen, and a huge lunch we brought items like flashlights.

My favorite part, Summit Lake Park, is actually slightly below the top of Mt. Evans.
The area is surreal and there is both Arctic and alpine tundra. At the time it was still the beginning of the summer so we didn't see anything too green. The lake, of course, was frozen.

I wanted to see some mountain goats but they were nowhere to be found.
Instead we saw a few marmots ...

... and a big horn sheep. Do you see it?

How about now?

Hint: It's not wearing orange. Jun was getting a little too close to the animal.
I didn't want to see him getting gorged while taking pictures.
It's not like he's getting paid by National Geographic.

Some videos: (Please watch the volume, because of the wind some of the footage is noisy.)

To be continued with Lomo shots.

97 cents de shiawase

2010-09-03T16:46:00.000-07:00

This week we came across some SIGG bottles while looking around a sporting goods store. The sign listed some discounted prices but probably nothing less than $12.00 or $15.00. However, when I casually picked up a bottle and checked the bottom I noticed a $ .97 price tag. What?! Unbelievable because besides being too cheap I can't trust a price tag/sticker. What stores still use price stickers? DH and I like SIGG bottles so just in case I asked a sales person and yes, it turns out that each bottle cost 97 cents! There was some controversy regarding bisphenol A (BPA) content in SIGG bottles but these bottles have the new coating inside. The designs might be a little old but you can still find them at stores like Target and they are online at Amazon, although they certainly aren't priced as nice. Now I just need to find a discounted bottle brush.

DAM (Denver Art Museum)

2010-03-30T18:56:00.000-07:00

In January we visited the Denver Art Museum. The last time I was there the Hamilton building didn't exist. It was nice to see something that before I only could view in Casa magazine. The building is smaller than I expected. It doesn't stick out in an obscene way and after making several trips to the nearby library I'm completely used to it. It's nice that Denver can offer up so much architecture. One problem I noticed is that although the building looks nice from the outside I'm not too sure the interior can easily house pieces of art. Also I would enjoy the experience more if there was an official museum restaurant located inside the building. Other than that I highly recommend taking a look inside and outside. As an extra incentive every first Saturday of the month general admission is free.

Sweeping up the trash outside.

Just kidding.

Fox Games by Sandy Skoglund

"Valuable advice about Japan."

2010-03-17T17:50:00.000-07:00

Colorado

2010-03-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

Adjusting to life in Colorado. I don't know how long we will stay here but so far I think living here is nice. If I can't have the ocean I'll take the mountains. Besides everyone is so friendly.

"Here is the car and you are the driver ..."

2009-12-03T05:23:00.000-08:00

Soon after landing my husband drove on the correct I mean right side of the road:

He made it all the way from New Jersey to Virginia. The best part was the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. It is a strange sensation to drive in the middle of the ocean.

Would you like ...

2009-12-01T12:22:00.000-08:00

"Would you like to review what your life should be...?"
Trash can at Jusco.

So we moved to the U.S. It is definitely an experience. For example, even though I am American the large selection and quantity of goods is slightly overwhelming. I almost can't believe how cheap things are. I feel better about the future but of course it is hard to leave friends and family behind in Japan.

mt

2009-10-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

I finally succumbed to the mt or masking tape craze. This tape is similar to regular masking tape but it's made of rice paper and is available in a variety of colors and patterns. You can stick and re stick it to many items without causing damage or leaving residue. For ideas I recommend visiting the mt site. You can also read the story behind the tape in both Japanese and English.

It's not satisfactory.

2009-09-25T09:28:00.000-07:00

LAUGHING GOT TIRED

I saw this on the way out of a Carrefour shopping center. I was a little rushed because everything was closing. Also, I don't think you are allowed to take pictures but I couldn't resist. I love the look on the panda. Maybe I'll go back and see how much it costs but for now I am going to pocket the "laughing got tired" phrase.

Mini Giveaway!!!

2009-09-19T00:10:00.000-07:00

WHY?: To make up for yet another long absence.

WHAT?: An envelope for the fall, a postcard for the spring, and a Rilakkuma (Relax bear) pin badge.

WHO?: This giveaway is open to anyone who is reading this.

HOW?: Just leave a comment showing your interest. Later I will randomly pick a winner and ask for your mailing address.

WHEN?: I'll consider all comments until September 25th midnight, Japan time.

ETA: Congratulations to Chie from Vivat Veritas!!!

going bananas at Tomato

2009-07-15T21:03:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday I visited Nippori Textile Town for the first time. There are 91 shops in the area but I went straight to Tomato's main store. Although I didn't find anything in the 100 yen per meter section I still saved some money. The selection was amazing and it was good to see so much Japanese made fabric. My husband was helpful but I think I've created a monster or at least a fellow fabric piggy. I now have more shirts to sew. Here's the break down of our fabric haul:

(Cotton, texture will wash out. 1st floor) My husband found this at the bottom of a shelf. I think I'll sew a dress out of this. I'm starting to think a shirt dress might be cute?

(Cotton and linen. 1st floor) I don't know what I should make with this fabric. All I know is I love Russian dolls. Maybe I should sew something kitchen related? An apron?

(Cotton. 1st floor) This will be a dress or maybe a tunic?

(Cotton with polyester. 4th floor) This fabric is actually quite black and the design is shiny. A blouse or a dress?

(Cotton. 4th floor) Hubby shirt fabric. I anticipate going a little cross eyed when I sew on the pocket.

(Cotton. 4th floor) Hubby shirt fabric. We completely splurged on this one but I know it will be worth it.

(Canvas) This is from a store near Tomato. Hubby bag material.

We also picked up some shirt buttons at the Tomato notion store. Where I live it's difficult to find nice buttons for men's clothing so I figured we might as well take care of everything at once.

So, I have to say that Nippori is as great as everyone says it is and if you get the chance you should go.

Tokyo I'm on my way ...

2009-07-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Going on a short trip to Tokyo. I get to visit a friend, check out fabric at Tomato, and see a 18 meter robot.

back to the "internets!" (again)

2009-07-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

It sure can be difficult to consistently add entries.

This time I got hooked on watching Monster. I recommend it if you like crime suspense stories and/or medical dramas. It was nice to watch a serious animated story that didn't involve space or robots. I enjoy sci-fi but sometimes it's good to see something different. Anyway I thought there were about 20-30 episodes but turns out there are actually 74.

I still managed to get some sewing finished. Here's a preview:

Short-sleeved version of BurdaStyle's Jakob shirt in a crazy plum blossom print.

remembering spring

2009-06-21T04:15:00.000-07:00

This last spring Iyemon gave away stickers with their tea. They are the type that are sort of dimensional for scrapbooking.

My husband managed to collect five out of the six designs for me. How nice is that?

I'm not a serious scrapbooker but I think these would go well with photos from a spring trip.

One Lovely Blog Award

2009-06-10T00:11:00.000-07:00

I received this lovely award from HeathersSphere. Thank you!!! Be sure to check out her blog SEWspicious Minds. Some of my favorite parts are her song references and sewing from vintage patterns.

I'm passing on this award to:

1.Lunatepetal at not enough time for everything.... I'm a visual person so the changes in font size and color are truly eye candy.

2.Virginie at Jazz Couture. A jazz singer who sews. Cool beans!

3.noddyboom Lovely, lovely photos.

4.Chie at Vivat Veritas Just started to follow her blog. She is one serious sewing machine with a great sense of style.

5.Chez Larsson Uncluttered beautiful design in Sweden.

One Lovely Blog Award Rules: 1) Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link.2) Pass the award on to 5 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

one coin, 100 yen, de shiawase (part 3 - sewing edition)

2009-06-07T04:01:00.000-07:00

(left) I can't believe I could get sewing machine needles for 100 yen. I hope they are at least OK for sewing with cotton. I like using a fresh needle for each project and it would be nice to have a cheaper source for needles.

(right) So far I have no idea what I'm going to use these appliques for. I couldn't help buying them, I fell in love with the bear. Maybe they would be nice on a pouch? Or I could secretly put one inside of a garment?

Fit for a queen?!

2009-06-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

Recently I went to a discount store and found these shoes for the summer. I wanted a pair with some height but not too much height. I like wearing 4 inch heels but there are a lot of stairs in the city. Sometimes I feel like I'm going to fall down and break my neck. Yes, I know, they are very gold. These are my fourth pair of metallic shoes. I should just get it over with and move down to the retirement community in Florida. Anyway, there's more ...

What's this? Yes, that's right, here in Japan my feet are extra extra large, queen sized in fact. I wear anywhere from a US 8 to a US 9 and it's almost impossible to find shoes that fit. So even though this is funny I'm thankful that I found something. (Bonus: Made in Japan.)

10 yen getchu

2009-05-28T05:17:00.000-07:00

Today I heard some giggling and then I heard something drop into the mailbox on the front door. I found a ten yen coin wrapped inside a piece of advertisement. (Ten yen is only worth about ten cents.) So strange, I mean why? Secret admirer? Some inside joke? A hint that someone needs to go shopping? Whatever the reason I'm now ten yen richer. ;-)

my first upcycling

2009-05-27T19:05:00.001-07:00

Wow, this is exciting for me because for the first time some of my sewing ended up in BurdaStyle's Featured Creations.

swine flu

2009-05-19T00:31:00.000-07:00

It took a while but the virus has made it to Japan. Unfortunately most of the confirmed cases are near my address. I'm trying to exercise the highest level of caution with the least amount of paranoia.

Tilt Shift Maker

2009-05-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

Even though I don't have too many photos that work for it I'm addicted to the Tilt Shift Maker. The Tilt Shift Maker transforms your photos into miniature scenes, making you feel like you are looking into a diorama box. Here are some examples using some photos from my Flickr photostream:

Now I want to take some pictures of things that I'd normally wouldn't. I'm thinking a neighborhood and the airport would be some good choices.

ミシンで着物 (Making kimono with a sewing machine.)

2009-04-22T00:34:00.000-07:00

Last year I purchased this book. I didn't think too much about it, as soon as I saw the pink fabric with the rabbits it was over. The kimonos themselves are made of non-traditional fabrics and styled in an interesting way. Some of my favorites:

I have to admit there are a couple that are too crazy. There's one that reminds me of the plaid flannel robe my brother once had. I could never walk down the street in something that looks like pajamas. However the rest of the book more than makes up for those few.

The book also includes a paper pattern, step by step sewing instructions with color pictures, ideas for accessories, information about what to wear underneath your kimono, and an illustrated guide for putting on the kimono.

# ISBN-10: 4766119010
# ISBN-13: 978-4766119015

one coin, 100 yen, de shiawase (part 2)

2009-04-19T04:27:00.000-07:00

Do you see how large this leaf is? Can you guess what it is?

Here it is with some lettuce and a cute tomato:

Would you believe it's a basil leaf?! Recently I went to a discount supermarket and discovered that they sell two packages of herbs for 100 yen plus tax. Amazing! Usually it's hard to find fresh herbs and when I do they are of course expensive. The first package I used was pretty normal but the second package had some of these enormous leaves. Crazy. I can't wait to go back.

denim ribbon

2009-04-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I was browsing through Felissimo's haco. catalog and came across this adorable bag:

It's constructed of 12 oz cotton denim. The bag also has pretty purple lining and a handy strap.

It costs 3,300 yen and if it wasn't made in China I would probably consider purchasing it. Although while I'm describing it to you I'm starting to forget its origins. This bag has just the right amount of cuteness.

However the real reason for sharing these images is that I am pretty sure that it can be copied by any sewist.

(Dimensions: Height: 20cm Length: 40cm Width: 5cm)

Hello Kitty x matryoshkas

2009-03-03T03:25:00.000-08:00

Some other recent Kitty acquisitions:

Oil blotting face paper. Just like a pop-up book, only 100 yen, and made in Japan.

Strawberry scented toilet paper.

even more packaging

2009-01-27T23:40:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I think I have more appreciation for the packaging than I do for the actual contents. I'm sure other people don't think twice about the fork with a smiley face, the Mary Quant-like flowers on the tissue box, or the outline of the teapot on their oolong tea. Although I have a feeling that the Nepia company must think something about their colors. Every color they use has a number and a name. So far "sango", number 048, is my favorite.

strawberry milk tea

2009-01-26T16:46:00.000-08:00

Packaging so cute even a coffee drinker can't resist.

back to the "internets!"

2009-01-25T21:52:00.000-08:00

There were so many reasons why I was away from the Internet. One of the most recent ones being The Twilight Saga. I had to find out why grown women were going crazy over a teen romance. I think I read the first three books in one sitting. The first book is my favorite. Sure some parts are cheesy and these books are for entertainment purposes only but I bet the most cynical heart will be melted into some disgustingly sweet syrup.

pikachu christmas?!

2008-11-14T09:46:00.000-08:00

In Japan they eat Christmas cake. Personally I found this tradition about the easiest to adjust to. I thought it was slightly different for about a whole second and now every year I try to bake my own. It is easy to get inspired by the various cake catalogs found in department stores, bakeries, and convenience stores. Almost always there is a French log cake and of course a sponge cake with strawberries but this year I found a Pikachu cake.

Wow! This isn't some sheet cake with some decorations. It's his head! Nothing says Christmas like Pikachu's head on a platter. Did I mention the inside is Japanese style pudding surrounded by cream? For 3,500 yen it's yours to take home and assemble with your parents.

eggy

2008-11-04T04:19:00.001-08:00

Since I can't stand eggs I find these instant noodles absolutely horrifying. However I must say I'm impressed with the amount of egg put into them. Look at the mini fried eggs.

I'm it.

2008-10-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged by Karencilla.

Seven random things about myself:

1. When I was small I carried around a stuffed Santa Claus. It wasn't jointed and looked more like a pillow. My parents visited a winery and Santa got a wine stain on his head. Supposedly he got smudged by a wine barrel.

2. There was a short time when people thought my younger brother and I were twins. Now strangers think he's my older brother. (Grrrrr ...)

3. Until recently I thought everyone used a ruler in the kitchen.

4. Don't ever leave me alone with your stuff unless you want it organized by color, number, letter, size, shape, etc.

5. Pink isn't my favorite color but I own a lot of pink things. Pink pashmina, pink phone, pink PSP, pink pajamas ...

6. Three Continents and Rebecca are two of my favorite books.

7. Even though I like cinnamon I am terribly allergic to it.

I'm tagging:
One Tree
floresita
The Gilded Bee
Sew Be Do

I'm still relatively new to Blogger so my list is on the short side. If you want to be added to my list let me know.

Here are the rules:-Link to your tagger and list these rules on your blog.-Share seven facts about yourself on your blog ? some random, some weird.-Tag seven people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.-Let them know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blogs.

some fall flavor

2008-10-10T23:52:00.000-07:00

It really is better to use fruit and vegetables when they are in season. Recently I made some apple sauce. I still haven't found the equivalent of a Granny Smith apple but it turned out OK.

Steamed Japanese pumpkin, with a green exterior, tastes pretty good. I know you can find some in the U.S. so you should give it a try.

Tom & Karl

2008-10-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you are a fan of Tom Ford and/or Karl Lagerfeld you must see this video. I still can't get over the fact that they are being interviewed together. Wow!

mobile blogging

2008-09-24T09:44:00.001-07:00

Here goes my first attempt at blogging from a phone. I guess this could be useful when one is traveling. Also this makes it easier to use those pictures taken with your mobile device. But really it's as necessary as an octopus-shaped dog bed.

pakupaku lunch

2008-09-24T04:02:00.000-07:00

Food picks to add some cuteness to your obento. Have you ever seen such an irritated giraffe?

kitchen kid

2008-09-22T04:35:00.001-07:00

A sponge with it's own bunny/bear suit. It's almost too cute to use.

paradise lost

2008-09-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged for a long time. No, I didn't go off to some paradise, fruity or otherwise. I was having a hard time dealing with yet another summer in Japan. It is just too humid and I had the worst attitude.

Now that's it's cooler I'm going to try blogging again. Instead of MySpace, however, I will use Blogger. Although I will keep the MySpace profile all future posts will be on Blogger. I am also in the process of moving the older posts to Blogger. It's not that I dislike MySpace, I just want to reach more of my readers. Enjoy!

one coin, 100 yen, de shiawase (part 1)

2007-03-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

Lunch box-sized containers for soy sauce from the hundred yen store.

picnic ver 0

2006-04-03T16:30:00.000-07:00

I was set to go cherry blossom viewing today. I checked the weather and prepared some food. However, I didn't check the cherry blossom forecast and the trees aren't in full bloom yet. Still it was nice to sit outside in the warm weather and eat a late lunch.

Outside of the electronic store tonight I saw some workmen setting up for some sort of event. That it normal enough but then I noticed an uprooted cherry tree lying on its side. Amazing. It's a portable cherry blossom viewing party. How much does that cost? What happens to the tree afterwards?

random

2006-03-30T15:20:00.000-08:00

Above are two shots of the Umeda Sky Building. I took them from inside a building with my not so good camera phone.

ururu to sarara

2006-03-26T16:50:00.000-08:00

We were shopping for digital cameras today and ran into Pichon-kun.

Usually Pichon-kun is peddling air conditioners for Daikin but today he was pushing Canon printers.

A salesperson took our picture and printed it out on the spot. She even offered a second copy but I think one is enough.

jokikiuta CM

another pichon-kun cm

sick and wrong

2006-03-22T12:31:00.000-08:00

Current mood: charmed

(In 2004 Sanrio announced that Hello Kitty received a new pet from her dad. It's name is Charmy and it's a white Persian.)

Mmm ... hamsters...

J (out of the blue): Kitty is sick and wrong.
Me: ...
J: Her pet comes from the same species as her.
Me: I know and Daniel has a hamster.
Me: Charmy is just waiting for the right time to pounce.
J: It's just like if your friend Kawai-chan was your pet and I had a chicken.
Me: ...
Me: I know but ...
Me: Shh!

Cool Water

2006-03-20T06:15:00.000-08:00

Little while ago I discovered Metromint water at a local supermarket. I am so hooked. As you can see, from Aranzi Aronzo's summer greeting card I sent last year, I am not too fond of Japanese summers. I am thinking this drink is the perfect thing to help me survive. Usually I have a lot of shaved ice, drink cold tea, try to stay in shape, avoid going into the main part of the city, and stay home as much as possible with the windows open. I am a little worried because the store just slashed the price and they don't seem to be restocking it. (I think it would help if they displayed it in the drink section instead of in the ice cream section.) Looks like I'll have to find a different source or get a mint plant.

confectionery

2006-03-17T17:20:00.000-08:00

I like this time of year because I can eat sweets like these:

Assorted sakura wagashi with salted cherry blossoms and leaves.

X-mas in Colorado

2006-03-16T16:45:00.000-08:00

otaku fufu (nerdy couple)

2006-03-14T09:04:00.000-08:00

One of my friends calls us the "otaku fufu." Sometimes I disagree with this but this Monday, on our sixth anniversary, it was impossible to deny. Last year we rode through Kyoto on a rickshaw. The year before that we stayed at the Hilton. The year before that we bought matching watches and ate Italian. This year we went to see the third installment of Zeta Gundam.

Recently we don't have much time and we already saw the first two movies. Might as well finish what we started. You also have to consider the soundtrack by Gackt and my favorite character, Char. How can you pass up a movie with the title "Love is the Pulse of the Stars?" Even so, I don't think that 50 TV episodes fit nicely into 3 movies. I felt like the characters got distorted. It ended just like a Bond movie. Where was the seriousness? Anyway, I had a good time. I even got to see a trailer for Chakushin ari Final.

Pink

2006-03-12T07:05:00.000-08:00

Sakura flavored Kit Kat, traditional style ball, sakura from 2004, momo dango (peach flavored sweet), grape flavored fiber drink.

Peach banana flavored Vietnamese style drink, huge strawberry cushion/pillow from my mother-in-law, sakura tea set from Afternoon Tea, Unazukin from last year (make some noise and she will shake or nod her head), spoon/chopstick rests from one of Jun's friends.

Potion

2006-03-08T15:15:00.000-08:00

I wish I were more interested in Final Fantasy because really this is just another power drink. The commercial features a battle over their potion in a convenience store.

Generally speaking Japanese convenience stores are better than average. Stores offer so much and nothing ever seems to collect dust.The one closest to me is even better thanks to an older woman who works there. She always goes out of her way for you and treats customers like neighbors. Sometimes they play classical music instead of J-pop but I have yet to see anything like this.

Nip/Tuck

2006-03-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the second season finale of Nip/Tuck. Considering the third season is over in the U.S., you would think that next week Fox would start showing the third season here in Japan. According to the schedule however, it looks like it's back to the first season. No! Why? Why when they are showing American Idol Season 5?

wanwan (bowwow)

2006-03-06T13:23:00.000-08:00

Last year we went to the Okome Gallery in Umeda. It's more of a store that promotes rice. Like the "got milk" campaign but for rice and in store form. There are displays about rice, onigiri (rice balls) for sale, and free recipes using rice. I picked up a recipe for lemon muffins. They taste great but are healthier since you use rice. I translated the recipe for my mom and everyone seems to think they are tasty. The exception was Jun who asked me if they had to have the rice in them. Ahh!

The store also sells chopsticks and rice bowls. I really couldn't pass up a set of rice bowls featuring their character, Gohanchawan. Chawan is Japanese for rice bowl, gohan means rice, and wanwan is what some small children call dogs, like doggie. You can't really tell in my picture but he has ears. My favorite part is filling it up with rice to form the head.

http://www.gohan.ne.jp/home.html

Shirahama Onsen

2006-03-02T00:06:00.000-08:00

Last October we went to Shirahama right when everyone else was ending a 3-day weekend. This turned out well because we were practically the only ones there. It was rainy on the trip out but eventually it was just cloudy with some sun once in a while. There were several public baths to try. All of them were spread out on a hillside connected here and there with bridges and lit up with lanterns. We even had our own bath. I am not quick to believe much but this time I found that bathing in onsen water is good for your skin. After eating a huge dinner we walked around trying to locate and collect stamps for our map. Once we finished that we could get a kind of lottery ticket. We won a coupon that we used to get some more beer.

I always like to see the ocean but the white sand made it really impressive. Shirahama is also known for their ume (plums, or technically Japanese apricots). Before heading home we grabbed an ume flavored ice cream cone which was delicious. There was a problem with the local train so we just took the express train. I hope someday we can make a return visit.

not so lovely

2006-02-27T17:38:00.000-08:00

I was browsing through a catalog produced by Felissimo called Haco. They offer a lot: "fashion, zakka, beauty, food, book, cd, etc." Instead of ordering though, you subscribe. What I think is the most important and interesting part is that they pick the color and sometimes the design of whatever you subscribe to. They feature what could possibly end up on your doorstep but unless you subscribe for as many months as there are options you might not get "the one" you want. They are a few singular items, like those scissors I just mentioned, but for the most part what you would receive is a surprise. Plus, you have to wait 3-4 weeks for it to arrive.

Potentially this could be good for some people like the girl obsessed with pink in the picture. But what if some yucky brown color really doesn't look so great on you? And, come on, a blue top and a pink skirt?

Until recently I thought it was a stupid idea but then I was thinking it would be kind of fun. Then I talked it over with Jun.

J: I don't think it's such a good idea ... blah, blah, blah, ... pisses me off that they say they are confident that you'll like their style ... it's none of their business ... blah, blah, blah ... so-called designers ... mumble, grumble ... (incoherent Japanese).

Me: (Thinking to myself: Where did this nasty independent streak come from?) OK, OK, I won't order (subscribe to) anything.

choki choki (snip snip)

2006-02-26T08:34:00.000-08:00

Why use kitchen scissors with only two blades when you can have a pair, I mean a set, with five blades on each side? The catalog seems to think that they would be handy for cutting nori (dried seaweed) and nira (Chinese chives). However, you can easily find nori precut into a variety of shapes and sizes and is chopping up some nira that difficult?

So, one of the following must be true:

-Usefulness of said product is greater than the agony of it's clean up.
-Novelty of owning the new gadget is greater than the agony of it's clean up.

Unfortunately I don't think these kitchen scissors will complete my life like my T-Fal pan, (bacon), garlic presser, and blender have.

Let's Cooking!

2006-02-24T11:59:00.000-08:00

Can you imagine having slices of ham for ears? How about rolled up bacon? We won't even get into the sausages. Then there's the new character that just came out. She has meatballs. Before you think this is just a typical post about those zany things Japanese people do, hear me out.

On a shopping trip you can hear a cacophony of food commercials pouring out of small stereos placed strategically throughout the store. One for fish here, one for mushrooms over there. The one for fish I disliked enough to forget and I actually like the mushroom song. Then I heard the one for an array of pork products. It has some rhythm and the voices are high enough to create that musical itch. It plays on and on in a loop. It's so annoying it's cute. So cute it's annoying. OK, OK, I'll buy some bacon! It burns! Make it stop! I've tried many things to get it out of my head. (The power of Christ compels you!) Eventually I ended up searching for it on the Internet. Guess what? There is also an exercise routine to go along with it. Check it out for yourself. I am going to go buy some bacon.

http://www.nipponham.co.jp/hamrins/cm/tvcm.html

hungry monkeys eat bananas

2006-02-22T04:00:00.000-08:00

Last night we went to Gyu-kaku. One of those places where they give you a plate of meat and you grill it yourself. For dessert Jun tried the "yaki banana". "Yaki" means that it is supposed to be grilled because otherwise it would just be a wannabe banana split. Well I thought that it was grilled but apparently it wasn't grilled enough for Jun and he asked the waiter if they had forgotten to grill it.

Reminds me of this mini game on PSP. You have to cook up things for monkeys like banana soup and yes, "yaki banana". Only their orders, which are in Japanese, start fading away. More and more monkeys arrive and they demand more and more bananas. Then you start mixing up the orders and start serving the wrong banana dishes. The monkeys start screeching and leave and before you know it the game is over.

new shoes

2006-02-20T07:14:00.000-08:00

When I got married it was at a shrine and I wore a wedding dress. In June my brother-in-law will be getting married at a wedding chapel and as one of the family members I will be wearing a formal kimono. This is one of the few oportunities I will have to wear such a formal kimono. So even though I am a little nervous about being wrapped up in this, literally, I am eager to do this. Luckily my mother-in-law sent me a nice new pair of zori. Not only do they fit but they have a little sparkle to them. I can use them after the wedding ceremony too. Well, I better get busy. Only three months left to break them in.

(Passed)

2006-02-15T07:38:00.000-08:00

Last December I took lowest level (level 4) of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test. It was cold and rainy. I was wondering why I had decided to pay money to take a test. I was using it for motivation but did I really study that much more? Yesterday I found out that I passed and I've never been so happy to pass a test. The highlight was my listening score, 94 points out of a hundred. So what now? Upward and onward I say. I never really looked at grammar before the test so I could study that and find out what's so special about all those particles. There are always thousands more kanji to learn. And, of course, I will keep listening.