Wabi-Sabi Sole – Page 21 – Finding Beauty with Imperfection

Full Dance Card

By wabisabisole

On October 22, 2017

In Japan, Navy, Navy Ball, Sake, Wetting Down, Yokosuka

We enjoyed a fun weekend with two traditional Navy events. Friday night we hosted Dave’s Wetting Down and Saturday we attended the 242nd Navy Ball.

The Wetting Down tradition is when a newly promoted officer hosts a party for friends, family, and coworkers. The officer is expected to spend the pay raise on the festivities. Dave elected to have his Wetting Down at the Officer’s Club.

There were plenty of appetizers and more importantly, an open bar.

To help make the event a little more festive, I made “kawaii” centerpieces for the tables. All of the decorations I was able to purchase at the Daiso (100¥ Store). Well, except for the American chocolates and candy corn. I bought those on base. I was thrilled to hear our guests loved the “edible arrangements”.

We wish you could have been here to celebrate with us. I know you are all proud of Dave – just like me! Promoting to the rank of Captain is a pretty big deal. We truly enjoyed ourselves and the celebration!

Saturday night we attended the 242nd Navy Ball. The Navy Ball is held every year in October to celebrate the Navy’s Birthday.

At each Navy Ball it is a tradition for the youngest and oldest sailor to cut the cake. Dave didn’t quite make the oldest sailor mark, he was 4 years too young. Theoretically, at our last Navy Ball before he retires (in five years), Dave should be the oldest sailor. I can’t wait!

One tradition that is unique to a Navy Ball held in Japan, is Sake being distributed as you approached the cake!

These cute little wood boxes on the tables are Sake cups. They were our Navy Ball party favors.

After dinner and the official toast, the Navy Band started to play and the gymnasium lights dimmed. This signaled it was time to dance. And we did. A lot! So much fun. I’m already looking forward to next year!

Full Dance Card

By wabisabisole

On October 22, 2017

In Japan, Navy, Navy Ball, Sake, Wetting Down, Yokosuka

We enjoyed a fun weekend with two traditional Navy events. Friday night we hosted Dave’s Wetting Down and Saturday we attended the 242nd Navy Ball.

The Wetting Down tradition is when a newly promoted officer hosts a party for friends, family, and coworkers. The officer is expected to spend the pay raise on the festivities. Dave elected to have his Wetting Down at the Officer’s Club.

There were plenty of appetizers and more importantly, an open bar.

To help make the event a little more festive, I made “kawaii” centerpieces for the tables. All of the decorations I was able to purchase at the Daiso (100¥ Store). Well, except for the American chocolates and candy corn. I bought those on base. I was thrilled to hear our guests loved the “edible arrangements”.

We wish you could have been here to celebrate with us. I know you are all proud of Dave – just like me! Promoting to the rank of Captain is a pretty big deal. We truly enjoyed ourselves and the celebration!

Saturday night we attended the 242nd Navy Ball. The Navy Ball is held every year in October to celebrate the Navy’s Birthday.

At each Navy Ball it is a tradition for the youngest and oldest sailor to cut the cake. Dave didn’t quite make the oldest sailor mark, he was 4 years too young. Theoretically, at our last Navy Ball before he retires (in five years), Dave should be the oldest sailor. I can’t wait!

One tradition that is unique to a Navy Ball held in Japan, is Sake being distributed as you approached the cake!

These cute little wood boxes on the tables are Sake cups. They were our Navy Ball party favors.

After dinner and the official toast, the Navy Band started to play and the gymnasium lights dimmed. This signaled it was time to dance. And we did. A lot! So much fun. I’m already looking forward to next year!

Kinugawa River

By wabisabisole

On October 19, 2017

In Japan, Nikko

The second half of our ITT tour on Tuesday included the opportunity to visit the Shinkyo Bridge. The Shinkyo Bridge is ranked in the top three of Japan’s famous bridges. Set above the gorge with the mountains in the background created an amazing view.

We passed a little shrine as we walked out on the bridge.

We were so lucky to have such a gorgeous day!

Our next part of the tour included taking a riverboat down the Kinugawa River.

We were early for our tour time and were able to watch the boats being lowered into the water.

We were given life vests and instructed to climb in the boat. We sat on tatami mats and therefore had to remove our shoes.

The boat held our entire tour group – 28 people!

The boat ride was quiet and swift. We drifted with the current and enjoyed the scenery.

The entire ride took about 40 minutes. Here is a short video I took along our way.

Our bus met us at the end of the ride. We loaded up and headed back to Yokosuka. I really enjoyed the trip. I look forward to returning to the area and having the chance to explore with Dave.

Nikko Samurai Festival

By wabisabisole

On October 18, 2017

In Japan, Nikko, Samurai, Shrine

On Tuesday, Katie and I took the ITT trip to Nikko. Nikko has been on my list of places to visit – especially, in the fall. Plus, with this trip, we would be able to attend the samurai festival! Here was our route from Yokosuka. It took us about 3.5 hours to get there because the bus has to stop every two hours to switch drivers. Safety is paramount.

The festival is held at the Toshogu Shrine. The Shrine was huge and beautiful. The rain finally stopped around 9:00 am on Tuesday. We were beyond excited to see and feel the sunshine! As you approach the Shrine grounds, you are greeted by a five- story pagoda and large Torii.

I know these trees are not Giants, but after not seeing any big trees for a while, I was pretty excited! Yay! Big Japan Trees!

There were many levels to the Shrine grounds and approximately 207 to reach the top! The walk along the way was beautiful.

At the top, we started to see the sun coming out. The mist on the trees was breathtaking.

At the top was also a large Torii. I posed for a tourist picture!

The rain made everything seem extra lush. We enjoyed seeing hints of fall as the leaves were beginning to change.

Once we returned to the main grounds of the Shrine, we saw the costume parade members lining up.

Without kids to throw into the picture, I had to be brave and ask for my picture. I asked three different Samurai. You can tell how they felt by their expressions. Priceless!

This one really makes me giggle!

Katie and I worked our way out of the Shrine in order to secure our spot for the parade. I think the word “parade” should be used lightly. I would call this more of a processional. It was very serious and narrated (in English and Japanese). The slower pace made picture taking easier! The attire is very traditional as well as the order.

There 100 Samurai Warriors in the parade.

Children hoping to be Samurai followed the Samurai.

The Mikoshi the men are carrying is a Shrine holding the spirit of the last Samurai.

The final member of the parade was the head Samurai.

The parade was unique cultural experience. We continued our experience of the cultural with a giant bowl of warm soba for lunch!

I’ll save the afternoon adventures for my next post…

Matane Monday

By wabisabisole

On October 17, 2017

In Japan, Ramen, Train, Zushi

Monday was our final day together in Japan. Nina, Noah, and I went for a jog on the treadmills because it was still raining! The kids really wanted to run with me and the treadmill was the best option. They did a great job and we worked up an appetite for ramen! We decided to visit Fukuman, the ramen restaurant near our house. The table available was Japanese style. It was another fun cultural experience. We took off our shoes and sat on the tatami mat.

After much hesitation and coaxing, Noah finally agreed to try ramen. It wasn’t a surprise to anyone that he liked it!!

Nina and I were both happy with our ramen choices!

After lunch, we loaded up the Hooptie and headed towards Yokohama on the train. One final train ride to Yokohama- together. I’m going to miss this fun loving crew!

While we waited at the station for the Narita Express to arrive, we finally found a food vendi! Layla had been searching all week!

One last selfie! Coffee time!

Layla and the kids loaded up on the Narita Express. I talked them through where to go and what might present a problem. They made it just fine! I knew they could do it!

They were checked in and ready to head home! Safe travels!

I had a wonderful time while Layla, Nina, and Noah were visiting. It was fun to share Japan with them. I enjoyed taking them to several of my favorite places and discovering new favorites. Although I did play the role of official tour guide for Julia’s Tour, their “I’m a tourist attitude” was refreshing for me. They greeted each day with a positive attitude and excited about the adventure awaiting them. They truly embraced their journey. I’m going to take their attitudes as a reminder to find joy in my journey. Thank you, friends. Thank you for visiting, for the hugs, and for the week of happy memories we created.

Ja Matane – I’ll see you!

Yokosuka on Sunday

By wabisabisole

On October 16, 2017

In Gacha, Japan, Neko Atsume, Yokosuka

Sunday the rain continued. Fortunately, it didn’t dampen our spirits. I had originally planned for us to watch the Yokosuka Mikoshi Parade, but the rain cancelled the celebration. Instead, we ventured down to the Honch, visited Dave’s work, shopped, and enjoyed lunch. Strolling through the Honch.

Halloween decorations at the AEON mall.

During their entire visit, Nina and I have been searching for Neko Atsume figures. If you are not familiar with Neko Atsume (Cat Collector) it is an App that allows to you to feed and attract virtual cats to your yard. I found a few figures in the Gacha located in the AEON mall in Yokosuka several months back. Last time I went, the Neko Atsume Gacha were gone. We searched again on Sunday. Unfortunately, still no luck.

We did however find another one of my favorites. Cat figurines by Concombre. I introduced them to Layla and Nina and it was love at first meow. Kawaii! Here is the Halloween set we both purchased to celebrate the season.

After shopping at the Gatcha machines, stationary store, and toy store, we were ready for lunch. We decided to eat at the Korean BBQ where you grill your own food.

After lunch, we strolled over to see Dave’s office. SRF Dry Docks.

Welcome sign.

Posing with Dave’s fish!

We started our soggy trek home. The rain created train delays and I was relieved we vetoed the possibility of a soggy schlep to Tokyo. The trains were super crowded and running late. Staying local was a perfect solution!

Yokohama Day Trip

By wabisabisole

On October 15, 2017

In Cup Noodle, Japan, Yokohama, Yokohama Baystars, Yokohama Trick Art Cruise

Our first stop in Yokohama was the station. We stopped for train stamps and an onigiri snack. When in Japan, visit the Conveni and eat onigiri!

Next on the agenda was the CupNoodle Museum. This is the second time it has been on a Julia Tour. I highly recommend it. I love the fact your Cup Noodle is your souvenir. They have worked out the process to a science. First, you buy your cup.

Then wash your hands.

After reading the rules for decorating your cup, you are escorted to a decorating table.

We spent about 20 minutes decorating our masterpieces. I made a cup for Layla’s husband, Nick, so they could enjoy a Japanese ramen dinner after they returned home.

Our finished products.

After decorating, we prepared our cups with noodles and flavor. The cups are placed upside down on the noodles. Each person turns the wheel and the noodles drop into the cup.

Next, you select the flavor of the ramen. Nina and Noah each selected traditional ramen flavor. Layla choose seafood flavor and I picked curry flavor for the cup I made for Nick. Also, we selected four toppings for each of our CupNoodle.

The chicken is my favorite. Kawaii!

After our cups are filled, the lid is applied and the cup is shrink wrapped.

After we made our own CupNoodle, we walked quickly around the museum. We were able to learn more about the history of the CupNoodle and pause/pose for a few pictures.

After our visit to the CupNoodle Museum, we meet up with Dave. We enjoyed a nice American lunch at Hard Rock Cafe Yokohama. As we made our way to the next stop on Julia’s tour, we took a quick detour at the Gatcha and Pokémon.

Our next adventure was at the Trick Art Cruise. This again made the Julia tour because it’s entertaining and a fantastic rainy day activity. Here are a few of my favorite pictures.

One of Noah’s Japan requests was to find a Yokohama Baystars baseball hat. We looked at Sports Authority and didn’t have any luck. We jumped a train and two stops later we were at the Baystars Stadium.

Of course we found one at the stadium!

This was our last stop of the day. From here, we headed home on one last train ride. From our first to the last train ride, we were all smiles!

Kamakura

By wabisabisole

On October 14, 2017

In Japan, Kamakura

Friday we spent the day enjoying many of my favorites in Kamakura. We started with a visit to The Great Buddha. Armed with our umbrellas, we were ready to explore!

When we arrived at The Great Buddha, I explained the importance of the scary warriors outside the Temple to ward off evil. Nina and Noah posed with their scariest faces!

The good part about the rain, it kept the crowds down to a minimum.

No trip to The Great Buddha is complete without going into “Buddha’s Pooper” as coined by Bill Johnson.

As we walked back to Hase Station, we stopped for ice cream. Yes, despite the chill and rainy weather, 3 out of 4 of us wanted Japanese soft cream. I opted for a warm sweet potato hash brown.

I must address the significant temperature variation between Thursday and Friday. Thursday if you recall, we were drenched in sweat after walking around Kannonzaki Park and riding the roller slide. Today, we needed sweaters and scarves. Nina and Noah were so chilly at one point, we stopped at the 100¥ store for a pair of gloves!

We rode the Enoshima Line back to Kamakura around noon. Here we said “mata ne” at Komachi Dori (the main shopping street in Kamakura). Layla, Nina, and Noah explored the street while I went to my English Class. We regrouped at 2:15 by the Torii.

I was excited to hear about their time we were apart. Their first stopped was at the Owl Forest. They loved the experience of seeing and petting the owls.

After enjoying time with their feathered friends, they followed my map to Oxymoron. Oxymoron is a coffee shop. But, not the coffee shop I wanted them to visit! I wanted them to go to “character coffee” which is next door. Since I sent them to the wrong place, I took them back to the correct coffee shop. Nina asked for Daisy Duck, Noah asked for Goofy, and I asked for Cinderella. So KAWAII!

Also, while we were apart, Layla manages a couple cute pictures with the locals. Girls in kimonos and a puppy!

The final part of our cultural tour of Kamakura was a visit to the Hachimangu Shrine. It’s a beautiful Shrine even in the rain.

I also tried a new food. Ginko nuts. They were quite bizarre. They were roasted and reminded me of unopened pistachio nuts at first. Then once I placed my order, the lady cracked them open by hammering them.

After cracking them, she added salt.

Then final product was a salty soft nut. I’m not sure if I was so hungry that my judgment was twisted. But, I thought they were pretty good. I ate the whole bag!

By the end of the day, we were chilly and soggy. We decided to head home and enjoy an American pizza. Kanpie! Happy Friday!

Shopping, Sliding & Sushi

By wabisabisole

On October 13, 2017

On Thursday, I was able to share several of my Japanese favorites with Layla, Nina, and Noah. We started the day with a shopping trip to the Daiso.

I think we might have set a record for longest time spent in a Daiso! We walked every square inch of the store by going up and down every aisle. I was able to get a head start on Christmas shopping and Layla took care of souvenir shopping!

These were the looks I got when I said show me your gangster face… I don’t see a life of crime in the future of those cute faces!

After our shopping trip, we stopped at Family Mart for a true Japanese experience. Convenience Store lunch! We enjoyed a delicious picnic before tackling the roller slide!

We went to Kannonzaki Park where the longer roller is located. It was a warm and sunny day.

Cute poop sign at the park. The puppy is pooping flowers! Kawaii!!

The slide was a hit!

Countless rides and two hours of sweaty fun later, we headed home to shower and meet Dave for Sushiro dinner.

We enjoyed the dining experience of Conveyor belt Sushi! You can tell by the stacks of our plates, we tried everything. Noah loved the fried chicken and coca-cola. Nina loved the salmon and ice cream. Layla loved the tuna. Dave had a little bit of everything. And I continued on my monthly quest of eating my weight in tuna! Kanpie!

Day Two – Tokyo Tourists

By wabisabisole

On October 11, 2017

In Hachiko, Harajuku, Japan, Shibuya, Takeshita Street, Tokyo, Train, Train Stamps, Travel

After an amazing day at Tokyo Disneysea and a good night sleep at a Disney Resort Hotel, I planned for us to take the long way home via Tokyo. Layla placed Pizza de Michele at the top of her “must go to” list during her visit. So, we went for lunch.

The staff was so friendly and allowed us to take pictures while we waited for our pizza. They even let Layla help cook!

It was delicious! Check out that pizza!

One final shot of the kawaii jack-o-lantern pizza.

Here’s more great news. I had train books ready for Nina and Noah when they arrived. We were able to start their stamp collecting as we explored Tokyo!! I was even able to get a few new ones!

After lunch, we went to Shibuya Crossing. Here we saw the Hachiko Statue and crossed through the crossing three times! Yay, tourists!

After collecting another station stamp and a couple Hello Kitty stamps, we headed to Harajuku. We stopped for the mandatory Takeshita tourist photo. Do you see the spelling mistake on the marquee? Wabi-sabi in real life!

Our first stop in Harajuku was at Cafe Mocha, a fancy cat cafe. Nina and Noah put cat cafe high on their “must do” list. I’ve been wanting to visit this cat cafe because it looks pretty cool from the street. We planned to stay 20 minutes. It easily turned into a 30 minute visit. We just needed a little more time to give all 16 cats enough love.

This cute kitty reminded Layla, Nina, and Noah of their cat Simba. Kawaii!

Perhaps the furriest cat in Japan!

Cat in a bowl.

The cafe had two rooms connected by a hallway. It was decorated in an Alice in Wonderland theme.

Cat ears were available if you felt felined… I mean inclined. We did.

Treats were available for purchase so you could feed the cats. The cats went crazy for the lollipop! We asked when we were leaving what it was made of. They were frozen chicken broth lollipops! Who knew?

My favorite kitty was Pumpkin. He was a real life Grumpy Cat. Although he did seem a little happy to lick the lollipop!

We had to tear the kids out of the cat cafe. We reminded them there was still cotton candy to eat and a toy store to shop!

After a quick stop for a pair of cat ears, we made our way to the cotton candy place – Totti Candy Factory.

Let me make a promise to you. When you visit me with your kids, I will spoil them with a HUGE mountain of cotton candy.

All I ask for in return is a cotton candy face plant photo! This was a highlight to my day!! Pure sugar happiness.

We finished walking down Takeshita street (so much kawaii) and worked our way to Kiddy Land.

Kiddy Land is a four story toy store in Harajuku. It has every imaginable Japanese and U.S. toy. From Star Wars to Hello Kitty.

We shopped until we dropped. On Pusheen!

By the time we made it home the train count was up to seven. Seven different trains in one day! Some were pretty crowded. Especially, during rush hour. Nonetheless, we were all smiles!

I had a great time sharing the Tokyo experience with this crew. They were flexible, inquisitive, and excited! Once again, I want to give photo credit to Layla for helping me document our day. And props to Dave for having dinner ready for us when we finally got home at 8:00pm!

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