spiced couple in tokyo - paris - london

29 February ... And I didn't get a silk gown...!

2008-03-11T06:38:00.004Z

Due to the vagaries of our calendar, every year whose number is cleanly divisible by four is a leap year, and so contains an extra day tacked onto its February. Because leap years are seen as unusual events that disturb the otherwise orderly progression of days/months/years, certain beliefs have been attached to them. According to folk tradition, 29 February is the only time when a woman could propose marriage to a man, termed "The Ladies' Privilege."

In1288, Queen Margaret of Scotland decreed that a woman could – on 29 February – propose to a man; which, so entreated, the man must either accept the proposal or pay the refused woman a substantial forfeit for turning her down, such as a silk gown or ℓ100.

The origins of "The Ladies' Privilege" are not definitively known, but one posited beginning set in Ireland had St. Bridget complaining to St. Patrick about women not being able to ask the men they fancied to marry them. According to the folktale, he offered the opportunity at a seven-year interval, and she bargained him down to four. (If this tale is true, it's no wonder St. Patrick took to putting the run on snakes, because he sure wasn't doing well against women.)

Though everyone loves a good folktale, the beginning of this custom more likely has to do with February 29 being perceived as a day that does not properly belong on the calendar and thus as a period when the ordinary rules of conduct do not apply. Other superstitions play upon the underlying theme of "betwixt and between" times being occasions especially fraught with peril or periods when the unusual was not only allowed to occur, but was encouraged to do so.

There is a bit more to leap year lore besides girls suddenly popping up to hold out velvet-covered ring boxes to their beaux. Superstition decrees leap years are notably excellent for beginning important undertakings or business ventures. The choice of itself is deemed particularly astute in that even greater luck will attach to all that is begun on that day.

... Queen Margaret.... and "The Ladies' Privellege"....

29 February ... And I didn't get a silk gown...!

I got a job!!

2006-08-01T11:49:00.000Z

And it is in INSURANCE!! ... In LONDON!! (and it only took me 1 month..who's a clever girl?!)

Stephen and I celebrated with Veuve Clicquot.

The best for the best...

Cheeky Airborne Part II

2006-07-30T11:52:00.000Z

Stephen working out the physics of getting Cheeky airborne.

Sorry about this, Cheeky...

Augghhhhh!

Now I've flown in TWO countries!

My new car!

2006-07-27T12:44:00.000Z

Look what Stephen bought me! A Jaguar XK-R !! Topless Driving!

Gorgeous Weather at the Pier

2006-07-27T11:58:00.000Z

The weather has been absolutely lovely here! Stephen took Cheeky and I to Clacton Pier.

Clacton Pier was one of the first buildings to be built in the new town of Clacton-on-Sea by a Peter Bruff. He was an engineer and the manager of the Eastern Union Railway. The Pier opened in July 1877. The novelty of the Pier for promenading soon became popular with the vast number of day-trippers arriving from London on paddle steamers.

We had fish and chips on the Pier...very traditional British thing to do. However, even in Summer, usually done all bundled up and being blasted by the winds! Not today!

Revising for the Driving Exams

2006-07-27T11:39:00.000Z

I am the proud owner a holder of a Provisional Driving License... I am a "learner". All learners must mark their cars with this big red L. (utterly humiliating!)

Studying for the Theory Test:

Q1: A pedestrian at the crosswalk has a white stick with a red tip. This person is: a-blind b-deaf c-blind and deaf d-a Manchester United fan.

Q2: What should you do when passing sheep on the road? (Yes! Sheep! and quite realistic too!): a-honk your horn several times to let the herder know you are there. b-stop, but rev up the engine to let the herder know you are irritated. c-slow down and prepare to stop. d-shout and drive as fast as possible so you can get past them as quickly as possible. See?! It really is a zoo over here!

Q3: You are approaching a roundabout. There are horses just ahead of you. You should: a-accelerate past as quickly as possible. b-press and hold down the horn while you pass. c-drive right next to the horse and yell at the rider. d-be prepared to stop. while choices a,b, and c look most attractive, I suppose the answer is d.

It's a ZOO!

2006-07-27T11:24:00.000Z

I thought traffic in Tokyo was crazy... It is a ZOO here!

Zebra, Pelican, Toucan and Puffins. OH ME! OH MY! These are all types of pedestrian crossings. Yes, crossings.

The use of improbable animal symbols began in 1951 with the introduction of 'Zebra' Crossings.

Zebra: White stripes across the black tarmac. (understandable).

Pelican: The name derives from a cute pseudo-acronym for 'Pedestrian Light Controlled', with the 'o' changed to an 'a' in deference to the bird. (i think the transportation minister had a few too many when he came up with that one!)

Toucan: Same as Pelican but allows cyclists to cross as well "two can" cross... (oh. this is just bad!)

Puffin: (Pedestrian User-Friendly Intelligent crossings)
Infra-red cameras similar to those used to find earthquake victims trapped under rubble are being used to help people cross the road. (isn't that a bit of a morbid comparison??!)

There is further, a Pegasus crossing -- for horses?? (sheeesh.) Cheeky is petitioning for a Monkey crossing.

wish me luck on the licensing exams!

Radies and Gentlemen...

2006-07-13T14:18:00.000Z

Radies and Gentlemen. May I have your attention, please?!! It is official....

The Spiced Couple have left Tokyo! Cheeky with Rebekah's passport, UK Visa & a one-way ticket from Tokyo to London!

Campai, Tokyo! Sante, Paris! Cheers, London!

At Mizonokuchi Station with all of the bags.

Union Jack in Mizonokuchi

2006-07-13T13:44:00.000Z

Our home in Japan...with the Union Jack snowboard hanging out on the balcony (and all of Stephen's white shirts drying...please refer to previous blog where upon I expound on the inadequacies of the Japanese washer and dryers... not to mention the mistaken washing powder/bleach incident!)

We gave a Union Jack to the Quality Bar and both signed it with our farewells. (Is that defacing the flag? I don't think the Queen would mind, the flag is proudly floating in a small city in Japan!)

Farewell Quality Bar-The Regulars

2006-07-12T13:00:00.000Z

Out back on the patio with edemame, nama biru and dear friends Naoki, Yuki, Tom (the laughing man) and Kozo.

Master and Maru even had a proper cake for us! (Kozo again and also at right are Dean & June).
Maru, our favourite bartender and the best Master....We'll miss you dearly! You were more
Salty Dogs ever! Good luck with the future! than just our local, you were a friend! Thank
you for everything.

The locals told us that they had never heard more English spoken in the Quality Bar as the entire duration of our lives in Mizonokuchi. And further, no one knew Master could speak a bit of English!
To all...Thanks for all the Japanese lessons and being patient with us! We had some good times, didn't we?!! Mata'ne.

Mitutoyo & Friends Farewell Party at Quality Bar

2006-07-12T12:31:00.000Z

The Mitutoyo boys--playing darts and watching Japan in the World Cup...

Below, Asakano-san, Joyce and Katayama -san. Above, Duncan (UK) is very excited about a kiss from Stef (FR)

We felt so honoured to have so many people attend this farewell. They even gave us gifts! We will enjoy using them all in the UK and will think of you all fondly!

My Students threw me a Sayoonara Party

2006-07-11T13:32:00.000Z

Every Thursday, Yumiko, Aina and Miki came over for English lessons. We had so much fun and they really came a long way.

I felt so honoured when they arranged for a special dinner and brought me flowers, gifts and lovely cards. I will miss you all! Keep in touch!

From Irishimasu...To Bonjour!

2006-07-09T10:25:00.000Z

I kept saying Doomo Arigatoo instead of Merci. Saying Gomen Nasai instead of Pardon. Shouting out Sumimasen! to get the waiter's attention... Finally I decided to just stay with not speaking any NON-English!
Every morning we popped into the shoppe, bought a Camembert, a bottle of French red wine and a French stick -- for our daily picnic at a beautiful location.
CHEESE!!

Tower Power

2006-07-09T10:02:00.000Z

Yesterday had a view of the Tokyo Tower. Today the Eiffel Tower.

On the Batobus on the Seine River...

2006-07-09T05:05:00.000Z

4 Japanese men in black suits....? Am I in still in Tokyo???

Where are we going??

2006-07-09T04:36:00.000Z

Please don't forget me on the aeroplane...

Toma's...the last night........ sniff

2006-07-03T19:07:00.000Z

Our tagged bottle of shochu... Toma2.... (spicy!! fried pasta maker! :-)

The menu.... and Toma. Subarashi!

The Hub

2006-07-02T18:42:00.000Z

The Hub.... The Happy Hour here was phenomenal. (V.strong) Drinks were half priced. Any ordered item is purchased at the counter a the time of order. This is very differnt to any other Japanese establishment. So much so... that there is an extensive Guide To Ordering Sheet for patrons to refer to..... hoi!

We are two drifters...off to SEA the world...

2006-06-28T22:41:00.000Z

Moon River, wider than a mile, I'm crossing you in style some day.
Oh, dream maker, you heart breaker, wherever you're going I'm going your way.
Two drifters off to see the world. There's such a lot of world to see.
We're after the same rainbow's end-- waiting 'round the bend...
My huckleberry friend, Moon River and me.

The MOL Precision here (captured real time from satellite) is carrying the container with all of our belongings in it! Thanks for all your help, Rich... again!(Rich has moved us around the globe now... from Seattle to Tokyo, and from Tokyo to London!) ... Cheeky says hi to Moosey...

Muraoka's Lovely Girls

2006-06-11T02:31:00.000Z

A night on the town with Stephen's collegue, Muraoka-san's daughters. Ai and Aya. At the Quality Bar in Mizo for drinks and darts. And then -- of course-- ending the night with Karaoke!

Taking a Winston...

2006-06-10T02:04:00.000Z

Affects of the hot and humid days of summer in Tokyo...

my pooky takes a nap with moosey.

The Red Light District

2006-06-08T01:58:00.000Z

In Shinjuku--Kabukicho (or Piss Alley) -- adverts for male "hostess" clubs...

Streams of screaming neon, high pitched shrieking sounds; people, people everywhere - silent and robotic. There's no room, there's no escape - earthquakes yet skyscrapers, it's hot, it's humid, it's calm, it's still for this is Shinjuku - a business and shopping district in the west of Tokyo and the ultimate, overwhelming experience.

Park Hyatt in Shinjuku

2006-06-08T01:47:00.000Z

We went to the New York Bar and Grill -- 52F of the Park Hyatt in Shinjuku. Absolutely stunning views! Especially when the sun went down and all the lights on the buildings came on.

Here we are with my friend Yuriko. She works at the NY Grill and Bar!

This hotel and bar, were the location for the film- Lost in Translation. Wakarimashita-ka? Iie....

Come on a safari with me....

2006-06-02T03:04:00.000Z

Visited Master in Fugi'sawa. 30C. Walked down to the beach. Not quite like the surf in western USA...but not too bad. The day we were there, the World Tournament Japan was taking place. Japanese surfing is similar to American surfing. When I surfed, the boards were shorter and also fatter. Here they are longer but have a Fun-Board shape. Western USA coasts this wouldn't be ideal, but for the wave patterns here, a really brilliant design.

Everyone rides bikes in Japan including the surfers! Their bikes are equipped with special racks to hold surfboards while in transit! Beats under the arm carrying as we do in California!

hirogohan

2006-06-01T03:11:00.000Z

When the weather is nice, I pack a hirogohan (lunch), "pick Stephen up from work" (on my bicycle) and we go to a little park behind the KSP for a picnic!

A present to go NUTS for!!

2006-05-31T02:54:00.000Z

From my dear friend, Adrian. Adrian is my fitness trainer in Seattle. (www.xgym.com) He knows I love fruit and how expensive it is here in Tokyo. So in true healthy form, he so kindly sent me a package of apricots and raisins and for protein- nuts and because he is so sweet...chocolate! Doomo Arigatoo Gozaimasu!!

rl

Cheese Cheese and more Cheese!!

2006-05-31T02:45:00.000Z

A care package from my dearest friend, Celeste!! Doomo Arigatoo Gozaimasu!!!
(Thank you so very, very much!)

I have never had so much cheese at one time! So absolutely lovely. A gorgeous package from a gorgeous girl!!!

The night the package arrived, Stephen and I had an evening picnic. We opened up a nice bottle of wine -that we'd bought on a trip last year to Yakima Valley wineries. We lit some candles and had a picnic of camembert and blue cheese with biscuits and fresh bread. it was so lovely! It made me miss home...and all my dear friends...like Celeste!

Doomo Arigatoo Gozaimasu! Love you, doll! And miss you too!

rl

Meg Ryan has sold out!

2006-05-18T03:03:00.000Z

Meg Ryan. A very wide assortment of strange hot drinks. A video to watch while you wait. One stop shopping! What a brilliant machine! Stephen, can we have one of these in the lounge?

Cheeky likes to sing Madonna too!

2006-05-16T02:53:00.000Z

Did you know...that you can buy special cell phones here that can double as portable karaoke machines?

Did you know...that there are actually proper courses in Japanese college for the study of karaoke? Karaoke 101....

-in Musashi Shinju

Yogurito

2006-05-16T02:47:00.000Z

Well...this isn't Japanese...it is from Holland (of all places!) but I have never seen it outside of Japan. Yoghurt Liqueur. This beats the strange American Christmas tradition of the drink Egg Nog.

They Came from Mars, or maybe Shibuya

2006-05-16T02:35:00.000Z

Wondering along the sleepy narrow roads of Daikanyama (in between Shibuya and Ebisu), it suddenly became clear that a robot hand landed on top of a Japanese house or perhaps a Japanese house was turning into a robot? Certainly would not be able to get planning permission for this in the UK, assuming it is not from Mars.

A cup of water

2006-05-15T01:58:00.000Z

Even a simple paper cup of water in Japan is a style statement.

Shibuya Subway

2006-05-13T06:19:00.000Z

Shibuya, Shibuya, Shibuya desu gozaimasu.
(the whiny-voiced announcement upon arriving at Shibuya subway station.)

the sign underground showing which exit to take for your various destinations...

kyo, doko de shimasu-ka?
where do you go today?

Cheeky shares popcorn

2006-05-11T06:10:00.000Z

Little Orphan Annie

2006-05-11T05:58:00.000Z

...and the Pied Piper...

A typical Saturday evening. At the Quality Bar in Mizonokuchi.

In one corner of the bar, there is a box...which has been accummulating - over many years- head dress in all shapes and styles. This is particulary fun to play in as the night wears on.

When I was little, my sister and I had a box of 40-50's style dress up clothes. I always dressed up as the rich lady of the manor and had my sister always dress as the man. hehehehe. Benefits of being the eldest...
-r

These Boots Were Made For Walking

2006-05-10T02:38:00.000Z

After one and a half hours, Rebekah could still not decide which boots to buy. Good job really, as this boot shop in Shibuya has thousands of pricey boots for sale.

Utsunomiya Giant Gyoza

2006-05-09T05:49:00.000Z

Gyoza are very popular in Japan and Utsunomiya, two hours north of Tokyo, has a reputation for making great Gyoza. Just to show how great they are, Smele is standing next to a Super Giant Gyoza.

-s

Tokyo Webcam

2006-05-09T05:18:00.000Z

Here is the view from the webcam. Image updated every 30 seconds. If you are lucky, you might see a group of young Japanese teenagers on their scooters hanging around at 4 in the morning.

Just for Gargling

2006-05-09T01:48:00.000Z

Special water fountains are found in Japan, just for gargling.

Cheeky Cubed

2006-05-09T01:43:00.000Z

Cooling off in a British pub in Ueno after a long day of site-seeing.

Lost in Translation

2006-05-08T01:49:00.000Z

Our friend translated our names into Japanese characters... and then translated them back to English...

Top: Rebekah reads: Beautiful; American; Flower

Lower: Smele reads: Black Ink; Flow

...sounds about right..

Cheeky, Just trust me....

2006-05-07T02:03:00.000Z

Stephen is convinced that he can get Cheeky airborne...

at tamagawa river
over golden week--weather was lovely- this day was 32C...coolest place was a picnic at the river's edge.

Oi ! ...and I trusted you!

2006-05-07T01:37:00.000Z

...cheeky has a few hang-ups...

Look, Mom! I'm flying!

2006-05-07T01:21:00.000Z

Cheeky Goes Airborne

2006-05-07T01:16:00.000Z

Cheeky has taken up "hand-gliding"...
(at Fatama-gawa river)

Who IS that masked man?

2006-04-27T02:47:00.000Z

or...uh...woman?!!

Quality Bar, Mizonokuchi... what else to say...I think the picture says it all...

Ah hah! That masked man...

2006-04-27T02:34:00.000Z

It was Stephen! Should have known...

Cheeky won't travel Coach anymore...

2006-04-27T01:25:00.000Z

It's LV or nothing ...
that Cheeky Monkey !!

at a fountain in Kyoto

Beard Wig

2006-04-26T08:24:00.000Z

You would not believe me if I told you, approximately US$2500 for a beard wig. It looks stunning as well. Wonder what speed I would have to drive at in my convertible car for it to blow off?

-s

Shinkansen 'Bullet Train' Ticket

2006-04-26T08:11:00.000Z

The Shinkansen Train system in Japan is excellent. Fast, efficient, comfortable and always on time. But, the trouble is I can't figure out what the stations are on the ticket. The train itself has English notices, English Electronic messages and even English announcements, but the ticket leaves you lost. This, buy the way, is a ticket from Tokyo to Utsunomiya.

-s

Shibuya 109

2006-04-26T07:18:00.000Z

A famous night time view of Shibuya 109 department store. Shops, restaurants, bars and people wearing strange clothes, that's what you get in Shibuya.

-s

JR Rubbish

2006-04-26T06:55:00.000Z

Poster found in Mikawa-Anjou station, instruction on throwing your rubbish where people can't see it. Good idea really, better than just dropping it in the middle of the road.

-s

Chirston Cafe - Shibuya

2006-04-26T06:49:00.000Z

The front of the menu says "A restaurant with the look of a church". Well, they are not wrong, just like eating and drinking at your local chapel, minus the good food, drinks, music and flashing lights. But then again it is a long time since I have been to church, so perhaps they are all like this one today. Seemed to be very popular for birthdays, heard 'Happy Birthday' sung by the staff four times.

-s

Taxis waiting for the drunk Salaraymen

2006-04-26T05:08:00.000Z

Here in Japan, the office worker is called a 'Salaryman'. Typically they work long hours in an office, commute long distances and go out drinking after work with colleagues. Often the last train home is packed full of red faced, drunk and sake smelling men in grey suits. Here is a bank of Taxi's at Utsunomiya station waiting to pick up drunks from the last train.

-s

Watami - Casual Japanese Restaurant

2006-04-26T04:50:00.000Z

Large chain of restaurants in Japan run by a company called Watami. This is an example of what you might get when you order of the menu, lots of small dishes that you all share. Seems very good value for money as well.

-s

Form Seattle with Love

2006-04-26T04:40:00.000Z

This is a little emergency package sent over to Tokyo from our dear friend Michelle in Seattle. It contains all those little luxuries that you can's get in Japan, Microwave Popcorn, dried Cherries and a can of real Aspen Powder Snow. Trouble is the snow has melted, but it might come in handy during the next earthquake and the water runs out.

-s

Cats in microwaves

2006-04-25T05:43:00.000Z

Here in Japan most people live in small houses or very small flats, so it should come as no surprise that there is very little place to keep pets. Thus, the microwave oven doubles as cooking device and cat home, just don't get the two confused, otherwise your US$1500 (yes, US$1500, UKP750) will go up in smoke.

-smele

Hanning in Lights!!

2006-04-22T02:08:00.000Z

THE Classic Osaka "skyline"....
-r

Priced to Smell

2006-04-22T01:59:00.000Z

The Japanese equivalent to
America's "Dollar Shoppe" and the UK's "One Pound~Fifty P Shoppe".

2 Floors of superb crap ...Osaka
-r

Super Size Me

2006-04-22T01:55:00.000Z

Better than the competition... Small Sadness........
(Osaka)
-r

Golden Week

2006-04-19T01:52:00.000Z

The Golden Week is a collection of four national holidays within seven days. In combination with well placed weekends, the Golden Week becomes one of Japan's three busiest holiday seasons, besides New Year and the Obon week.

The national holidays making up the Golden Week are:

April 29 Greenery Day (Midori no hi): April 29 used to be the birthday of Emperor Showa, who died in the year 1989. After his death, the day was changed into a national holiday for environment and nature, since the emperor loved plants and nature. From 2007, this national holiday will be renamed Showa Day, while Greenery Day will be moved to May 4.

May 3 Constitution Day (Kenpo kinenbi): On this day in 1947, the new post war constitution was put into effect.

May 4 "Between Day" (Kokumin no kyujitsu): According to Japanese law, a day which falls between two national holidays is also declared a national holiday, unless the "between day" is a Sunday, in which case it will be just a regular Sunday. From 2007, Greenery Day, currently celebrated on April 29, will be moved to May 4.

May 5 Children's Day (Kodomo no hi): The Boy's Festival (Tango no Sekku) is celebrated on this day. Families pray for the health and future success of their sons by hanging up carp streamers and displaying samurai dolls, both symbolizing strength, power and success in life. The Girl's Festival, by the way, is celebrated on March 3.

(the picture is from outside a temple in Kyoto...and yes! those are indeed-cigarettes in the statutes mouths...and no! I do not have any idea why!)

Cheeky's Shochu

2006-04-17T22:38:00.000Z

Cheeky with our bottle of shochu at one of our regular Mizonokuchi haunts: Toma's.

This is a common practice all over Japan:
Restaurants/bars that you are frequently customers of--
Purchase an entire bottle of sake or shochu - Drink what you will, and then leave the bottle behind the bar for next time.

The barman will put a "name tag" around the bottle and it is popular to bring your own bottle cap. So...When in Rome....
(unfortunately, Cheeky is of the opinion that he requires his own bottles...bit high-maintenance that little monkey is...have NO idea where he gets that from?!!)

More karaoke

2006-04-17T22:35:00.000Z

A duet- Rebekah and Cheeky. We have a huge fan base...in Ota City....

Karaoke

2006-04-17T22:33:00.000Z

Stephen and Cheeky doing karaoke -Ota City, Gunma Prefecture.

Smoked Eels

2006-04-17T01:35:00.000Z

In Hamatsu, western Japan, smoked ells on rice are the popular dish here. This is a typical dish from a restaurant under the station in Hamatsu. The ells are smoked and then a special soy sauce based sauce is applied. This can be repeated many times to build a smokey soy sauce taste. Not cheap, at about $25US for this meal. I thought that the meal was alright, but I don't really see what all the singing and dancing is about.

Oh! Sock ya!

2006-04-15T04:44:00.000Z

Have spent a pleasant week in Osaka. Bit of ame (rain) but nonetheless, enjoyable. Well, I`m sure Stephen may have another viewpoint. Standing all day at the Company`s booth at an Exhibition...a MOLD Exhibition of all things. YAWN!!! Yesterday he counted that he had spoken all of 10 words........ Unfortunately, when finished for the day, he meets me in the hotel and goes on-and-on-and-on... about anything. He is afraid he is going to become a mute soon with all this lack of speaking!

Last night went to a restaurant for traditional Osaka dish: Okonomiyaki... have taken pictures for you...but on the hotel`s computer right now...and can`t access them. Will put pictures on later so you can view this gastro delight!

Okonomiyaki restaurants (okonomiyaki-ya) serve large, savory pancakes made with diced seafood, meat and vegetables. "Okonomiyaki" literally means "cook what you like," and customers get to choose their own favorite ingredients and then cook up their pancakes right at the table. Because the customers choose their own ingredients, Japanese sometimes compare okonomiyaki to pizza, although the similarity really ends there.

And if you are feeling VERY adventurous...here is a recipe for it: http://markun.cs.shinshu-u.ac.jp/hobby/okonomi/index-e.html

We forgot the Cheese, Grommit!!!

2006-04-03T00:01:00.000Z

Oh yeah!!! Subarashi!!! A SUPER Cheese Machine!! Must get me one of those! Watch out for those crabs. They will swim right out of that tomato sauce if you're not careful!
Futaka Tamagawa-Italian Restaurant/rebekah

FRESH Opening!

2006-04-01T23:54:00.000Z

As opposed to 18 March...when it is the Stale Opening...
Ginza/rebekah

Little Orphan Annie

2006-04-01T23:51:00.000Z

Classic problem when you go to the hair salon.... and don't speak the language.............
Quality Bar-Mizonokuchi/rebekah

Biru. Mo ipai.

2006-04-01T03:42:00.000Z

Ah. Our little Cheeky's first beer. At our Chinese place in Musashi Shinju.

How YOU doin' ?

2006-04-01T01:50:00.000Z

Cheeky !!

2006-03-31T03:37:00.000Z

LOOK WHO Stephen found!!!
Cheeky!!
All this time, he has been hiding at Toys R Us in Takatsu!
That Cheeky Monkey...

(He likes Chinese just like his brother does!)

Your Mama

2006-03-31T03:34:00.000Z

Ya Mama ... fhave finally discovered my microwave popcorn source!

Watch your kcal's

2006-03-03T14:27:00.000Z

Small Beer or Big Person

2006-02-03T04:28:00.000Z

What do you think?

Funky Fresh

2006-02-03T02:38:00.000Z

Hmmm, can't beat starting your day off by opening ones car door and getting a lovely whiff of bacon. Yummy. For some reason these Funky Fresh Bacon Style air fresheners are very popular in Japan. All I need now is a ketchup and toast air freshener and I will have instant Bacon Butty aroma when I get into my car.
-smele

Ullo John Got a New Motor

2006-01-30T05:52:00.000Z

Smele thought I would buy the little lady a car, so that she may return from shopping without breaking her back while having to carry those heavy bags of shoes. It appears, however, that Smele made an error of judgment when purchasing the car over the internet. Smele swears it looked much bigger in the picture on the website.

New Year Cards

2006-01-16T13:36:00.000Z

Come the New Year in Japan, everybody sends out a post card wishing thier friends and family a prosperous New Year. This is a card that was sent to me. As an added incentive, lottery numbers are printed on the bottom of the card and today the winning numbers were posted. Looks like a good way to make people keep the cards for two weeks until the winning numbers which of course none of my cards were. Not even a book of stamps, maybe next year.

happy birthday .... two ewes

2005-12-20T14:02:00.000Z

03 December ... I FINALLY turned the big Three-O ... I never would have imagined that I would be living in Tokyo and celebrating the day in Bangkok!

Upon returning from our trip, I found a large parcel from my mother. Walnuts! From her orchards!

I don't know what enthralled me more... the fact that she had sent me another orchard package or that it was walnuts or that I'd simply received something in the mail. Thank you!!!!! You made my MONTH!

AND a package from my dearest friend Michelle!!!!

Microwave popcorn - right up there with diamonds in my book!
Silly-shoe addict-girlie books!!
And sparkly silver stockings!

sigh. what more could a girl WANT? (and YES!... at 30, I AM still a girl!)

lost in translation

2005-12-20T03:03:00.000Z

Stephen took me on a dinner cruise along the Chao Phraya River. It was absolutely lovely!

Below is the brochure for the event... LOST IN TRANSLATION...

Welcome aboard the Chao Phraya Princess with the relaxation and memorable 2 hour on board. Feel luxury and touchable with Romantic Dinner to your romantic partner that you forget.

The exciting and magical atmosphere will start when you stop on Chao Pharaya Princess with us. The first step fell great dining along the Chao Phraya River opening on the luxury 300-seater with 2 levels of deck cruiser. All atmosphere of cruiser make you will feel return in the past of decorate of special carve and sculpture on cruiser. On Chao Pharaya Princess divided for separate past for you to fell different for the first deck is providing you with the fully air conditioned and on the second floor, you will feel like touching the natural blow of wind on the open air deck. Our reception will provide guest to the special dinner succulent international buffer with the romantic on the fully perfect white seat cover. While you feel fully eating of providing special dinner the another special trip that will never miss of enjoying dancing song or romantic song by our singers and saxophone and also we can glide the past stunning, historic riverside dwellings and attractions, Including the Grand Palace and the Temple of Dawn.

You will fell a warm welcoming to our services that we prepare to all and every guesses.

The Emerald Buddha is in reality carved from a large piece of green jade. According to the reliable, lightning struck a chedi in Chiengrai in north Thailand and a Buddha statue covered with stucco was found inside. The image was brought into the abbot’s residence and one ay he notice that the stucco on the nose flake and the image inside was green. He removed all the stucco and found the Emerald Buddha!

The Rama 8 Architecture River Bridge is the 13 Chaophraya River bridge in Bangkok. It is join together out of the bound of Queen Sirikit sky-high that cross the river of Thonburi. The Rama 8 has the range of 475 metres and also has the highest bridges a king of the steep slope. The special remarkable has decorate on the Rama 8 bridge is to tighten only one essential pillar on Thonburi and the another pillar can hold only one River. There help to reduce the problem travel ad also help to reduce a system of ecology in river ruining very good and together with release the crash against establishment of parade of royalty a state of ceremony on the Chao Phraya River.

The Temple of Dawn, Wat Arun, is one of Bangkok’s best landmark known. It stands on the west bank of Chao Phraya River in Thon Buri. It is best seen opposite bank rivers; it glistens in the sinlight during the day and stands dark noble at dawn or dust. A visit to the beautiful, peaceful monastery complex surrounding the familiar towers is very worth-while. These towers, the Phra Prang, although best known, the only part of Wat Arun. It also contains narrows lanes; elegant old white buildings; shrines, pools of turtles; and two fine giants, Yuk Wat Jaeng, mortal enemies of the Yuk Wat Poo across the river.

No Strawberries for us

2005-12-19T13:35:00.000Z

Looks like strawberries are very popular at this time of year in Japan, but at approx $9 (£4.50) for 12, yes that's tweleve small ones, I don't think there will be any in the fruit bowl at home this year.

-smele

Bangkok Transportation

2005-12-18T07:58:00.000Z

Transportation is very interesting in Bangkok. Apart from the usual scooters, cars and buses there are also a lot of water boats. These take the traditional form of a long wooden boat that has been made in this area for years. The Thai people being a resourceful lot decided that rowing with a paddle was not longer going to cut it and decided that an engine would be needed to really get ahead in the world. Not being able to afford boats with engines or even a conventional outboard motor, they simply strapped on an old car engine to the back of the boat and stuck a propeller on the drive shaft, while fashinoning a mechanism for balancing the engine on the back of the boat. Sort of Red-Green/Scrapheap Challenge/Monster Garage fashion/ I know a certain Eric Noble that would be most impressed by this, expect to see something in a similar fashion Puget Sound next summer.

Then of course there is the Tuk Tuk's. Small three wheeled motorized death traps. Not that they are really that dangerous, top speed is probably only 25MPH, but the old two-stroke engine that the maniac driver sits on puts out more pollution than you can possibly imagine. You would be better off inhaling the fumes of a sewage farm. Coupled with the fact that these three wheeled chariots of smoke and noise are really only for tourists and you are going to get either ripped off or taken to a selection of shops on your way, I would recommend that you stay clear of them. Unfortunately, the little lady enjoyed whizzing around Bangkok on back of this poor cousin to the Robin Reliant. Maybe I should buy one, could be handy in Tokyo I suppose.

Press play to watch the video.

-smele

Less is more... or is it... More is less...???

2005-12-11T01:16:00.000Z

Shopping is serious stuff! Here I am waiting for the Sky Train to take us to the next market centre. Stephen thought that I needed to relax more. And made me get a Thai Massage... ah... I really got addicted to these! For Yen 600, you could get a superb 1 hour thai massage... I miss them already!!

Stephen has begun to look like a pot-smokin' hippie... Seriously! He was so in need of a haircut, I was ready to buy him a plaid flannel shirt and some drum sticks. He really was looking like a member of a Seattle Grunge Band!!!

So, one afternoon... in between shopping sprees... we popped into a hotel for a pint. I noticed that they had a spa/salon... I booked up for a pedicure and booked Stephen in for a hair trim.

What we didn't realize... is that in Thailand... what you ask the Salon staff to do... is merely a suggestion... and they will go about doing what ever they want to do to you.... I walked out with red toes...with a white spray of flowers across each toe...

And Stephen's "just take a little bit off" turned into a military doo.... It is definitely NOT a Juni haircut...

...but doesn't he look CUTE?!!

One Stop Shopping

2005-12-11T00:49:00.000Z

We were sitting by the canal having cold beers, when I spotted this shoppe. 200baht and you too could be this multi-talented...

Law. Translation. Marriage for Aliens (?!!). Work permits. Taxation. Company Registration. Detective Services....

Mr. Ben.
Stephen said that when he was young, he used to watch a Mr Ben -a character in a show about a multi-talented chap....hmmmmm...

One Night in Bangkok...

2005-12-10T10:15:00.000Z

Stephen took me to Thailand for a very long weekend to celebrate my (21st) birthday.

It was gorgeous warm! So relaxing and exotic. blah blah blah. THE SHOPPING!!!!

Bangkok. A heaven for a handbag and shoe addict. Even an addict with Champers tastes on a beer budget... those "designer" labels are SO cheap they are almost free! But, Stephen said that I had reached my beer budget limit at 10 handbags and 20-or so (ok 24) pairs of shoes....

Bangkok even has shopping on the river!!!

Bangkok is simply unbearable for a couture fashion designer on a T-shirt budget ...Gorgeous silks and cheap labour... I could have max'ed out (Stephen's) credit card!

Bangkok even has shopping into the wee hours of the morning!!

...Apparently the maximum number of shoes & handbags that you can take out of Thailand... is 75.... Luckily, that is Per Person... the ladies at the Thai airport think that Stephen is gay...with a handbag fetish.
-rebekah

Culture Day

2005-11-22T13:02:00.000Z

Here are some pictures from the Culture Day parade in Asakusa.

Vodafone Mobile Magic with Maps

2005-11-18T10:32:00.000Z

Not a big fan of Mobile Phones myself, but if I was going to buy one of these ghastly pieces of technology then this 903T from Vodafone would be it. Brimming with all the features that you would expect of a modern mobile dog and bone, it also has GPS maps. This allows you at anytime, anywhere in the world to bring up a map of where you are and allow you to enter directions on where you want to go. Brilliant. I know someone that could use one of these, but she would probably programme it to find the nearest shoe shop. Trouble is, of course, is that the map is all in Japanese, so I think that shoe shops of Tokyo will be safe for now.
Lots of Japanese mobile phone also have a television tuner built in to allow you to watch TV on your phone. You can even play the very popular Final Fantasy video game on your mobile phone, for a little taste of magic.

Cheeky Monkey

2005-11-16T12:23:00.000Z

Ode to Cheeky...

Stephen won Cheeky for me at a game in Circus Circus when we were in Reno this last summer. Cheeky liked watching television with me and always was up to join me in a nap. He loved Madonna and Mexican food! He liked to come on driving trips with us- he's been in Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Canada and Tokyo airport... But sadly... Cheeky hid under my seat and got left on the airplane.

I submitted a Lost Article Claim Form... But alas. It does not appear that Cheeky will be found. Here is the FANTASTIC answer that NW Airlines sent back:

Dear Ms. Lewis RE: Case Number 1591403 -- regarding a pink, furry, stuffed monkey that was left on Flight 7.

We were sorry to learn you left your pink, furry, stuffed monkey on Flight 7 while traveling with us. We fully recognize that some items, even though they may not be of great value, may have personal significance to the owner.

Thank you for writing, Ms. Lewis. We appreciate your interest in ourcompany and hope you reunite with your pink furry, stuffed monkey.

Sincerely, Meggan Brenna, Customer Care

Thank you Meggan!
...got to love the form letter...

Daylight Savings

2005-11-08T05:10:00.000Z

In Japan, DST was implemented after World War II by the U.S. occupation. In 1952 it was abandoned because of strong opposition by Japanese farmers. That is one thing that Japan has right, no confusing daylight savings. No need to worry about turning up an hour early for work or missing an hours drinking time in the evening. But farmers? Why is it always farmers who seem to be so influential in deciding about daylight savings. Scottish farmers in the UK resist change all the time, I mean, it is not as if the cows know what time it is. Then we have Japan, oh no don't pick the rice at the wrong time of day or it will not be happy...

Blue Babes Bullets Bingo Bicardi Body-snatchers

2005-11-08T03:33:00.000Z

The Century Cafe in Mizonokuchi, threw a Fancy Dress Party on Halloween Night. There was Bingo and prizes, and everyone wore costume.

I threw on a blue wig and called it a costume. Everyone thinks we are "strange" Westerners anyway... Huge hit-however! Here I am with the gun lighter that Nory won...this would NEVER exist in the States. It really looks and feels like a real gun!

Here is the Bingo card. A bit hard going...as they called out the numbers in Japanese...a bit too quick for Stephen and I... Nory helped!

Here is my friend, Nory. In Stephen's afro wig. With the evening's MC...funny little jester chap

This guy tried to pick me up all night! What a nerd. I mean look at that HAIR!!

He did speak English though--with a cute accent! was really nice and relatively intelligent... so I ended up going home with him. ...I figure I can talk him into getting SHORN !!

It is either Rico suave... or some dirty old man...

Cheesy

2005-11-06T02:53:00.000Z

Michelle sent us a CHEESY care package!!

Cheese&Buscuit boxes, cheddar and Cheesy films: ¡Three Amigos! and Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery.

Bartender: We don't have beer. Just tequila.
Ned Nederlander: What's tequila?
Bartender: Uh, it's like beer.

Thank you, Michelle!!

Feel free to send Cheesy Packages anytime!
-rebekah

APPLES!

2005-11-06T02:48:00.000Z

A suspicious looking package arrived...

stamped on every available inch by the US Government, the airlines, the Japan customs,

several strange large red kanji characters... which could have said Stupid Gaijins for all we knew...

Dried Apples from my Mother's orchard and prepared by her!!! FRUIT! What a TREAT!! Thank you!

Feel free to send suspicious looking packages anytime!
-rebekah

Culture Day

2005-10-31T12:25:00.000Z

Thursday, 03 November is Cultural Day (bunkano-hi)- one Japan's national holidays. This began as a celebration of Emperor Meiji's birthday and was sustained as Culture Day when he passed away. It is also the day the Japanese Constitution was officially announced in 1946.

Today, 03 Nov. is a day for the promotion of culture and the love for freedom and peace. The Order of Culture Awards is held in the Imperial Palace and the Emperor presents honours to people who are outstanding contributors to Japanese culture and society.

Here is a picture of a fish tank located in our local shopping mall's food court- a place we frequent as a meeting spot in Mizonokuchi.

To celebrate Culture Day, Stephen & I are planning to attend the "White Heron Dance" an old tradition which is performed at the Sensoji Temple in Taito-ku. Later that afternoon, we will attend the Tokyo Jidai Matsuri (Jidai meaning era in Japanese), where 1,600 participants clad in costume representing the historical epochs of Tokyo, will parade around the precinct of Sensoji Temple in Taito-ku- beginning from the Niten-mon Gate behind the temple.

-rebekah

Saucy

2005-10-30T23:25:00.000Z

This is an intersting dressing that you see in lots of Japanese restruants, it contains vinegar and fruit juice and honey and a lot of and.

-smele

Motor Show Car Models

2005-10-29T23:42:00.000Z

Stephen went to see the cars... I went to see the fashion.

Much to my disappointment...the car models were not attractive, nor were they wearing anything very interesting (the theme was white...and their white calf-high, kitten-heeled boots just don't STAND a chance against MY white thigh-high stiletto boots...)

So I stepped in. Tough job. But someone has to do it! (Why else do poor boys go to motor shows?!)

While not paid in cash, a certain Mr. Smele PROMISED that he would PERSONALLY put in a bigger stereo into my Bentley...when I get it...

Interesting

Feel Fine

2005-10-29T23:20:00.000Z

TOKYO MOTOR SHOW 2005
What an odd coincidence! This is the exact Bentley that Stephen is buying me! Same colour and everything! ...except mine is the model up--it comes with the boy named James who carries my shopping and opens champers for me upon reaching home ...after a bloody exhausting day of looking at shoes!

Yes! This car will indeed make me FEEL FINE!
-r

The Trains of Tokyo

2005-10-28T05:39:00.000Z

Tokyo has an excellent public transport system, so I am told. There is an extensive systems of trains and underground subway trains. Of course there is the usual problem of trying to work out where you are going, but this is handicapped by the fact that most of the maps are in Japanese. Not all of the lines having English stations names as you are traveling along in the train, so you have to remember how many stations you need to go before you need to get off. Then of course there are Express Trains, which only stop at certain stations to add some confusion. Just when you thought you had it all under control, there is also two train systems, the Subway and the JR Line train system. That means you need two maps to work out where you are going. Now don't even get me started on trying to use the ticket machines.

Tokyo JR East
PDF Version
JPG Version

This is a large map of the Tokyo JR East underground railway in Tokyo.

JR East Has a website with lots of info on tickets that you can buy. Some tickets are extra cheap and can only be bought by visitors.
http://www.jreast.co.jp/e/

Tokyo Metro Subway Map
PDF Version
JPG Version

This is a large map of the Tokyo Metro Subway .

Tokyo Metro has a website with lots of confusing information about the many different types of tickets that you can buy.
http://www.tokyometro.jp/e/

To make a trip on either the Subway or the JR railway, the travel planner website by Jorudan makes the whole adventure much easier. It works across both networks and gives you prices and times. Now there is no excuse to be late for that meeting.

Jorudan Traffic Guide

-smele

Roadside Robots

2005-10-27T02:23:00.000Z

Why use valuable human resources when digging holes in the road to wave cars by? Is it really necessary to have a chap in uniform waving an illuminated stick at you, while bowing and apologizing for delaying your journey to work? No, of course not. Instead millions of dollars were invested in a realistic robot that can safely wave you on with a satisfyingly secure wave.

Press play to watch the video.

-smele

MC and Eddi, this one is for you!

2005-10-25T14:11:00.000Z

Amid the chaos of Yokohama's ChinaTown... We found a cat. On a ledge out front of a noodle shoppe... sleeping. With a sign that read DO NOT DISTURB...Can't you see I'm sleeping?!... Stephen swore it wasn't stuffed...but I still have my doubts...

-rebekah

Stephen ROCKS my WORLD!

2005-10-25T13:52:00.000Z

Well, shake it up, baby, now, (shake it up, baby)
Twist and shout. (twist and shout)
C'mon c'mon, c'mon, c'mon, baby, now, (come on baby)
Come on and work it on out. (work it on out)

We were in Shibuya with Katayama--exhausted after looking for a cell phone for me for HOURS! ...

Popped into a bar for a bite and some shochu on rock...
When...it really started to rock!

Our first earthquake!
Risk Management advises to GET UNDER THE TABLE...and bring the shochu down here as well....
-rebekah