Wabi-Sabi Sole

Finding Beauty with Imperfection

Tokyo Disneysea 

By

On October 10, 2017

In Disneysea, Japan, Tokyo, Tokyo Disney, Train

Layla, Nina, and Noah arrived on Monday evening. I meet them at the Narita airport. In true “welcome to Japan” form, we exchanged hugs and then quickly made our way to buy tickets for the Narita Express Train. We had 12 minutes. We can do this! And we did! With three minutes to spare! Welcome to Japan!! 


They were super travelers all the way home. The red carpet was rolled out for their arrival!


We enjoyed a bowl of Dave’s chili and then called it a night. We had big plans for their first day. Tokyo Disneysea!! Disneysea is part of the Tokyo Disney Resort. The park has an international sea theme. It’s kindof like the Epcot of Japan with a Sea theme. It was going to be a new experience for all of us! 

This was my first time traveling to the Disney Resorts on the trains and buses. I worked out the route over the weekend and knew exactly where to go to make our connections. It was pretty simple once I knew where to find the bus.


 I didn’t anticipate it would be as crowded as it was and we had to wait about 20 minutes in line to catch the bus. 


We made it to the park by 9:00am. Actually, 8:56. We all placed a guess what time we would arrive. Noah had the winning guessed with 8:57! 

We already had our tickets, so we sailed through the entrance. Time to enjoy Disney Magic! 


We were very efficient in managing our time with rides and utilized the FastPass option. We all loved the Indiana Jones ride the best! Here we could use the FastPass line as a single rider. We enjoyed it so much we went twice! 



A quick shot of all of us at the Arabian Coast. 


After seeing so many guests at the park in their matching attire, we decided we needed matching shirts. We checked every gift shop in the park and finally decided on the Disney 2017 Halloween tshirts. Kawaii! 


Our wardrobe changing and photo shoot left us hungry and ready for lunch. In case you’re wondering why Tokyo Disneysea is better than Tokyo Disneyland. Beer. Yes, Disneysea serves alcohol unlike Disneyland. Kanpie! 


During lunch, we discussed how many groups were not only dressed alike, but wearing actual Disney costumes. Layla had a fantastic idea. She was going to take as many pictures of her kids with adults in Disney costumes! Boy, did we ever take some fantastic pictures!! I want to thank Layla for the idea and many of the pictures and also for letting us use her kids for fantastic pictures!! The fun part was the smiles the characters would give us. They were truly flattered to have their pictures taken. Can you name all the characters? 


It wasn’t until after the sunset that we realized our shirts had a hidden message! “Welcome to the Villains’ World” was written in glow-in-the-dark lettering. Cool! 


We stayed at the park until about 7:15pm. We were staying the night at a hotel on the resort. We took the Disney Monorail to the resort and ate dinner. 


We spent 10 hours at the park. Not too bad for a group that only landed in the country the night before! After a good night of sleep, jet lag should be cured! 

Fuku Sei Ramen

By

On October 9, 2017

In Fuku Sei, Ikego, Japan, Ramen, Zushi

I must confess to something a little embarrassing. We have been in Japan for almost 15 months now and last night was the first time we ate at the closest ramen restaurant to our house. I know! We pass the restaurant each time we go for a run or drive out the gate. We always talk about eating there. Finally, we did! 


We took about a 15 minute walk from our house to the restaurant. The restaurant did not disappoint. We enjoyed an American sized Japanese beer to quench our thirst after the warm walk. 


The added bonus was an English speaking staff and English menu.


The ramen and gyoza were delicious. There were a plethora of choices for ramen. Even a vegetarian option which can be very difficult to find in Japan. Plus adding extra noodles was an option. For only ¥210! I ordered a salt based ramen with chicken. It also came with bean sprouts, seaweed, and corn. Because our waiter spoke excellent English, I could ask him for no corn. Ahhh, yes! The result was a beautiful and delicious bowl of ramen. 

I’m always hesitant with gyoza. Sometimes they give me a bit of indigestion. Sorry for the TMI, but these only required two Tums compared with others requiring four… 


It was the perfect outing for a casual Sunday night. We will definitely return. Sooner than later. 

As my Japanese students have taught me to say when you want to change the subject, “thank you for sharing, ok, subject change.” I’m writing this as I sit on the Narita Express. I’m heading to the airport to meet my friend, Layla, and her two adorable kids. They are coming from Memphis and staying for the week! I can’t wait to share and explore Japan with them! I have so much planned for their visit. We are starting off strong and heading to Tokyo DisneySea tomorrow. It’s like the “Epcot” of Tokyo Disney with a “sea” theme. Stay tuned for kawaii Disney Halloween ? ? ! 

Puppy ? Poop ? 

By

On October 7, 2017

In Japan, Puppy, Yuki

One last Yuki story. Not surprisingly, this story has me giggling. Just so we are clear – I love ? and ?! 

Wednesday morning we had a bit of free time before meeting for our tour. I decided to take a walk and see a little of the area. I used my resources, Google Maps, and discovered a small park not far from our hotel. We were staying in the Yuki Daiichi Hotel (bottom right) and I walked about a mile to the park on the left. 


The park had a trail that was used for exercising and commuting. 


As I entered the park, I saw a cute sign. It obviously was asking people to clean up after their dog or cat defecated. Did you notice the chopsticks!?! Kawaii! 


I of course giggled and continued on my walk. As I left the park, I walked down a lovely street and passed no less than three people walking their dogs. 


Simultaneously, I passed a half dozen or more no poop ? signs. Several I passed more than once!! 


You know what I love about these signs? How the sign happily tells the dog owner to clean up their dog’s poop ?! Clearly, picking up poop ? is not just an an American problem. 

Perhaps, if we had the kawaii signs, people would be more likely to follow the rules! Regardless, I’ll enjoy a giggle or two each time I pass an adorable puppy ? poop ? sign! Teehee ? 

Oribakan – Part 2

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On October 6, 2017

In Japan, Weaving, Yuki

After our delicious bento box lunch on Wednesday, we meet at the looms to prepare for our afternoon of weaving. 


For our weaving arts and crafts project, we were given two choices. We could either make a smaller coaster made from scraps of silk fabric or create a larger coaster made from silk thread. I took a picture of an example of each that were available in the gift shop. 


We were given our choices of thread and then brief instructions – in Japanese. 


I selected a red, green, and white combination thread. It reminded me of Christmas! Here is my spool of thread ready to weave. 


I took a short video so you could see what it’s like to receive directions in Japanese. 

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Here is one more video. The process of weaving involves sliding the spool through the threads from one side to the other. Simultaneously, one foot is down on the pedal and the other is up. Then slide the bar down to make the threads tight. Switch feet and then slide down the bar twice – dong dong. In the video you can hear sensei say “dong dong” – it makes me giggle. 

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Here are a few pictures of me working the loom! 

Eventually, we had our finished large coasters. Mine is in the middle. 


We had a few minutes as the other group finished weaving and I spent it checking out the thread. The thread is made from silk worm cocoons. 


It is gently shredded. And then spun into thread. A tedious process! 


I enjoyed having the opportunity to weave using the looms. It required a lot of concentration to remember to dong, switch feet, and then dong, dong. I did find the loom to be a little small for my long legs. If I were to take up weaving silk fabric, I would need to have the XL loom. My knees were really achy by the end! 

Oribakan-Part 1

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On October 5, 2017

In Japan, Yuki

On Wednesday, we went to Yuki-Tsumugi to experience Oribakan.


Oribakan describes the dyeing and weaving processes of the silk fabric produced at the factory. In morning, our group was scheduled for an appointment to dye a scarf. The scarf is light, soft, and very strong. 


Our dyeing sensei used the board to help explain the different methods for dyeing. He also explained the dye being used is a plant based dye and all natural. He drew a plant to illustrate where each color originated. 


He shared with us the colors we would be permitted to use for the dying process. 


The colors are seasonal. We had the choice of combining indigo, yellow, orange, and natural (brown). I selected indigo, yellow, and orange in a dotted pattern. Before dyeing, we were given aprons to wear and rubber gloves. 

What our scarves looked like before we dyed them. 


Our sensei helped us to create unique masterpieces. As we helded the fabric, he would envision where the colors should be placed and the shapes they should take. 

The process of the color dying the fabric was amazing. The colors would change not only as the fabric was held in the dye, but also as the fabric was rinsed. It was really cool to watch the transformation of the colors. 

We started with indigo. I’m preparing to dip my scarf! 

After each color was dyed, the fabric had to be thoroughly rinsed. 


After indigo, the fabric was rinsed again and the dye was set with hot water. 


The squares or geometric patterns were so cool! How did he fold the scarf so that it made the patterns!?! 


Next, I added orange. Or as I liked to call it – vermillion! Sensei looked on with intense concentration as I dipped my scarf. Steady, now!!



I was the only one who choose to incorporate the third color of vermillion. I’m glad I did because it also made a cool geometric pattern! 


The final color added was yellow. 


As the water rinsed the yellow, the color became more vibrant. The final step was washing the scarf in a water and vinegar mixture to set the colors. I was so pleased with our creation! 


Here is a silly picture of me with sensei’s assistant. I was helping her hang my scarf. Notice we are the same height… 


I took pictures of all the different scarves we created. Each one was unique. 


It was such a fun and unique experience to be a part of the dying process. It reminded me of tie dying. Except we used silk scarves and had the expertise of the sensei to help us create beautiful pieces of wearable art! 

We took a break for lunch. We enjoyed a delicious bento box with rose water. 

That’s all for now… I’ll tell you about our weaving experience in Oribakan Part 2! 

Yuki Road Trip

By

On October 3, 2017

In Japan, Yuki

A friend of mine, Lydia, organized a road trip to Yuki. She rented a van and invited 5 women to join her. I was fortunate to have a couple days free to be able to attend. 

The city of Yuki is the birthplace of an ancient and beautiful fabric known as Yuki Tsumugi. Yuki Tsumugi is a fabric produced by using the oldest Japanese silk- weaving technique. The technique creates the highest quality silk fabric in Japan. The silk fabric is described as being strong, light and soft. 

The drive took us about three hours. We stopped a couple times to enjoy the rest stops and eat lunch. 


We had time this evening to explore the sleepy town of Yuki. In the town center was a visitor center. Here a young lady was learning the art of producing Yuki Tsumugi. 


There were also beautiful kimonos that were available for rent. 

Not sure they had my size! 

Check out these bows!! 


We went to another museum hoping to see a kimono exhibit. Instead for the month of October it had a photography display. However, the coolest thing was the fake bonsai. 


Upon closer inspection, I realized the leaves were made from the Japanese ¥.05 piece! A real money tree! 


Tomorrow we have a full day at the Yuki Tsumugi factory planned before we head back to Yokosuka. I am not sure exactly what we will be seeing and doing, but I’m looking forward to seeing the extravagant fabrics and the meticulous weaving process! 

Substitute Teaching

By

On October 2, 2017

In Japan, Yokosuka

After over three years, I finally stepped back into a classroom today. I was an eighth grade U.S. History substitute at Yokosuka Middle School. 

I was finally approved as a substitute teacher for DODEA schools in August. I submitted my application in October 2016. Like with so many things related to the government, approval took a while. 

None the less, I am approved and ready to serve. All things considered, my day was good. I set very low expectations. I had flashbacks to 2012 when I substituted at some Memphis City Middle Schools. I would compare YMS to Riverdale. They were studious, silly, and very respectful. The main difference, these kids ALL have parents in the military and they live in Japan! 

The school was very nice. I’ve never taught in a classroom with carpet. My out of teacher shape knees appreciated the extra cushion! 


The view was pretty nice, too! Once you looked past the standard Navy issue blinds you can see Tokyo Harbor.


The schedule today was a “C” day. It means an abbreviated class schedule enabling me to see all the A and B day students. Whew. There were a lot of kids! New class every 40 minutes. It reminded me of teaching science at Dexter Middle School and seeing all my students on Fridays. I’m happy to report, I survived my first day back to school. My teacher cardi and I felt good. 


I did have three students during one class sit in the wrong seat. This obviously created a huge distraction. No worries, I still have my “stern teacher voice” and had things under control with one sentence. Lucky for my students I didn’t have to use my “stern teacher look” today! 

The worst part of the day was sitting down to eat my lunch and realizing I forgot a fork. Dang it! Fortunately, my chopstick skills have vastly improved over the past year. Eating my chicken, rice, and black beans with chopstick carrots was a breeze! 


Now that I’ve wiggled back into the wet swimsuit, the next time I sub will no doubt be even easier! 

Nagano Purple 

By

On September 30, 2017

In Grapes, Japan, Nagano

This morning Manami and I met at the Starbucks in Zushi for our English session. During our conversation, she asked me if I was familiar with Nagano Purple – a type of grape. No, I wasn’t. She explained to me that Nagano Purple is a grape grown in Nagano. Nagano is about a four hour drive from where we live. The 1998 Winter Olympics were held in Nagano. Also, we took a trip last December to Nagano to see the snow monkeys. 


Back to Nagano Purple grapes. The grapes are plump, delicious, and very special when in season. She also explained that the best way to eat the grapes is to peel them. Peel a grape? I commented on that being a very tedious chore and asked why. She said it made them taste better. 

After our session, we went next door to the grocery store. She showed me the Nagano Purple and insisted (in a very kind manner) on purchasing a cluster for Dave and me. You can tell by the packaging, they are very special grapes. 

The grapes were wrapped in a paper/plastic bag and then set in a plastic dish. The pink foam protected them from being bruised. 


This evening, I unwrapped the grapes and tried them. Wow. They were delicious   Ginormous purple grapes without seeds. Juicy and sweet. 


I decided to give peeling them a try to see if it made the grapes taste better. I tasted them and felt they tasted less acidic without the peel. Donning my scientific research lab coat, I conducted a blind taste test on Dave. He also agreed the peeled grape tasted noticeably better. This very scientific experiment proved Manami correct and taught me (yet again) to listen to the advice of my wise Japanese friend. 


I know you’ve heard me say, “Nothing says love like fresh cut fruit.” I probably need to amend my saying to include freshly peeled grapes. A tedious task that takes love and enjoyment to a whole new level. 

Coffee Plus

By

On September 29, 2017

In Coca-Cola, Coffee Plus, Japan

Some of my favorite things to share with you are “only available in Japan” products. The latest is coffee blended with Coca-Cola. Yes, extra caffeinated Coca-Cola. I have been on the hunt for this since returning. Guess where I finally found it! On Base!!! In the vending machine by the gym. Seriously!! 

The small can is served cold and only ¥130 – about $1.15. Notice the blue coloring underneath. In the summer, all the machines serve cold beverages Warm products are red and offered in the cooler months.  


Coffee Plus Coca-Cola. 


As with so many things in Japan, the can is tiny. Here is a picture with a regular 12 oz can of La Croix. 


Here was the pour. It looks like a tiny glass of Coca-Cola. 


As I went to take a sip, I was hit with a strong smell of coffee. The taste wasn’t unpleasant. It tasted like Coca-Cola with a hint of coffee. Or maybe like coffee with carbonated vanilla flavor. The after taste and lingering taste reminded me of coffee more than coke. I felt like maybe I have coffee breath, slightly. I should probably brush my teeth. Simultaneously, I have carbonated beverage burps that taste like Coca-Cola. Sounds delicious, huh? 

The caffeine is advertised as 34mg at only 42 calories. Remember, it’s a very small can. 


By adding coffee, the amount of caffeine is increased by 50%. 


I would give this a 3 out of 5 stars. It’s not terrible or bad tasting, just not my taste. I switched out my sodas for carbonated water several years ago. Maybe Japan will figure out a way to caffeinate my fizzy water. 

Imperial Palace

By

On September 27, 2017

In Imperial Palace, Japan, Tokyo

Sonia was able to register us for a guided tour of the Imperial Palace Grounds. The East Garden is free and open to the public. (I made a note to come back and visit this part next month when the leaves are changing.) The part of the grounds we toured are only open to registered guests on a daily basis and the general public on the Emperor’s Birthday and the second of January. 

The guide spoke only in Japanese. Fortunately, there was an App we could download that provided both audio and written descriptions of the significant parts of the tour. It was not as entertaining as the English guide at the Kirin Factory, but just as informative. 

Before I begin with the details of the tour, let me take a minute to share details of the Imperial Palace. Tokyo became the official Imperial capital in 1868 at the end of the Edo Period. The former Imperial capital was Kyoto. The original Imperial Palace in Tokyo was destroyed during Workd War II bombing raids. Only a few of the traditional buildings remain. The Imperial Palace grounds include about 1,150,000 square meters or approximately 284 acres in the middle of Tokyo. It is surrounded by a moat and rampart (stone wall) with eight gates. 

To access the start of the tour, we were required to use a special entrance – the Kikyo-mon. We arrived about 30 minutes early and were united with a large bus group. The tour consisted of about 200 people. 


As we began the tour, we passed a large rock wall, known as the Kikyo-mon Stone Wall. The wall provided security and protection. Also, carvings are present signifying the family crest of the worker who helped build the wall. These carvings exist on all the stone walls surrounding the palace grounds. 


The Fujimi-yagura watch tower was reconstructed in 1659 and one of the oldest remnants of the Edo Castle. The rampart is approximately 15 meters high and the watch tower is 16 meters high. 

Notice the beautifully manicured trees. The style is “niwaki” meaning “garden tree” because they resemble clouds. 


The Fujimi-yagura tower was given this name because before the skyscrapers were built, Mt. Fuji was visible on a clear day! 


The next building was the Imperial Household Agency Building. It was constructed in 1935. After World War II, the third floor was used at the Imperial Palace until the new palace could be built. 


The Palace East Courtyard or Kyuden Totei, consist of a large courtyard in front of the Chowdan Hall of the Imperial Palace. From the balcony, the Emperor and Empress will greet the public twice a year. 


The plaza was HUGE! When open to the public, crowds of 20,000 gather to view the Emperor and Empress! As a group, we pretended to wave to the official party. 


The stones in the plaza are “softer” than normal. In case someone should fall, their injuries should be reduced. 


The Seimon-tetsubashi Bridge is a highly praised and loved bridge. The views of Tokyo were magnificent! 


The Fushimi-yagura tower is one of the most iconic of the Imperial Palace. It is believed to have been moved to Tokyo from Kyoto during the 17th century. 


This large entry and stairway is where the Emperor will greet official guests to the palace.


The remaining part of the tour took us down several beautiful tree and mosquito lined streets. We came away with lovely pictures and not so lovely bites on our ankles! 

The moat is behind the large tree and in front of the stone wall and full of lotus plants! 


It was a very cool tour and experience. I was very appreciative of Sonia for arranging it and inviting me. I will look forward to returning next month and visit the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace when fall finally arrives and the leaves start to change. I’ll probably skip the New Years event. The thought of 20,000 people in that plaza kindof stresses me out. Not to mention the crowded trains to get there!! 

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