Monthly Archives: December 2011

Tokyo Disney Sea Dec 30th 2011

December 31, 2011 By in Chase, Culture Shock, Daily Living, Family, Girlfriends, Japanese Excursions, Kathryn, Living in Tokyo, Tokyo, Uncategorized Tags: , , 1 Comment

Tokyo Disney Sea

In making plans for winter holidays here in Tokyo, Nikita and Svetlana (Our new Russian friends from school) thought a trip to DisneyLand or Disney Sea would be a good idea. Normally, the crowds are CRAZY and I wouldn’t begin to consider this as an option, but Svetlana said it may be less crowded since we were going right before New Year’s Eve and most Japanese moms are at home preparing traditional foods for New Year’s Day  (more on this later). Every time I get together with Svetlana, I learn so much more about the culture and I find her and her family to be facinating. Tickets are priced as shown:

Ticket Prices

Entering the Main Areas

We arrived a little after 9am and right away it was obvious, tradition in Japan is a dying art. The lines were very long. No one was staying home. The good thing about Japan is you might encounter a monster long line anywhere, but if you wait patiently, it slowly but steadily moves along. You just have to be really patient.

It was super cold and standing for 80 minutes for a ride doesn’t constitute as cardio, so Thank God Svetlana and Nikita had been here several times and knew where the “indoor” lines and attractions were.

Ariel's Underworld. Great place to warm up and stand in line.

Fast passes: The last time I was at Disney World in Florida, I had riding and getting fast passes down to an art. Here in Tokyo, if you get a fast pass, you cannot get another fast pass for another 2 hours. They have rationing down to a science.

You cannot beat Tokyo Disney for people watching. They need to rename it Disney See. I have never seen so many grown men and women wearing plush character hats and carrying teddy bears around. Many of them also have season passes and come quite often and have a refillable popcorn bucket dangling around their necks. Given the wind and cold, Sventlana and I were extremely close to buying 2 Tigger hats for ourselves.

If you go, try not to miss out on one of the many shows.

The water shows are so incredible, just seeing these things are worth the cost of getting in. We were lucky enough to catch both a day and night show and both were unbelievable.

We ended up spending almost 12 hours at the park and in that time had 2 meals, rode 3 rides (1 with a Fast Pass), saw 2 shows, and 1 scavenger hunt. Our last ride was the Indiana Jones ride and I must say it was a fantastic way to end a long day at Disney.

Temple of Doom ride at Disney Sea

I had to buy this photo just for the expression on Chase’s face, but look at those people in the second row. You can tell they probably own season passes. They knew exactly when to pose for the camera!

Today is New Year’s Eve and we are planning to do some traditional New Year’s activities. Will fill you all in sooner than later.

Until next time…

Updates: Mani-Pedi, Healing Gems, Chia Seeds & more

December 31, 2011 By in Culture Shock, Daily Living, Girlfriends, Kathryn, Living in Tokyo, useful Tags: Leave a comment

Manicures:

Still haven’t gone back for another mani-pedi. My PTSD (Personal Tragedy Story Details) would involve telling you that in my sad attempts of “making it last”, I gave myself a horrible case of double black toe in my big toes. My guess, it came from the tennis and my stupidly long toenails. Anyhow, I have since completely removed that last remnants of the gel polish and covered my toes with red and left my fingernails nude. I thought about getting a manicure right before Cliff’s work party, but then decided against it thinking I could “represent” myself as a more frugal spouse.

Healing Gems:

I had the gems put on my ears December 10th and it is now the 28th. About a third of my gems have fallen off and I have found them in my hair or on other parts of my body. At first, I was finding them and replacing them to their original spot, but then I started strategically putting them on my body where perhaps I had once fantasized piercings. One word: vagizzle. Would I do this again? Probably not. Did I have fun for 4800 yen and enjoy the experience and attention? Yes.

Chia Seeds:

I am happy to report that after regular consumption of the chia seeds, I LOVE them. I feel better, a few weeks afterwards everyone kept saying I looked like I lost weight. I never changed my eating habits. I just ordered a 6 pound shipment. I normally put it into my black sesame smoothie, but if I can’t get the smoothie in, I’ll have some yogurt and mix it in with that. The seeds last forever and you start to get used to their weird appearance. Seeing my excitement over the seeds, Cliff and Chase have actually started eating them and Chase will tell you anytime, “I love my chia seeds!” Would I do this again? ABSOLUTELY.

Washing My Face:

Living in this eco-efficient apartment, we are forced to turn on hot water in different parts of the apartment as needed. It isn’t like the States, where you just have hot water sitting around ready all the time. Here, if we left the hot water heater on, we would be charged enormous amounts for the energy used. That being said, I have started washing my face in cold water in the morning and evening. I usually wash my face before I go to bed with a facial cleanser and then I moisturize. I used to do the same in the morning. But then I started thinking, “why am I washing my face in the morning?” It just didn’t make sense to me. So now, my morning regimen is simply splashing cold water on my face and following up with moisturizer and sunscreen. I think my face looks better. Back in the States, myself and my friends would admit to me that at one point or another, our dermatologists had accused us of “Over-washing” or “over-exfoliating” our faces. I think there is a lot of truth to that. The funny thing is when we go anywhere like a restaurant or hotel where hot water comes at just a turn of the handle it just feels so luxurious. Even though I’ve gotten used to it, I still like to tease Cliff about the day he makes enough for us to have hot water anytime we want.

Until next time…

Asian Ski Vacation 2011 Part 2

December 29, 2011 By in Chase, Cliff, Culture Shock, Daily Living, Getting there, Japan, Japanese Excursions, Kathryn, Transportation, Uncategorized, useful Tags: , , , , , , , 1 Comment

3 Guesses, where are we?

I’m so glad to have had the chance to spend more time with Alexandra and meet her family. The more time we spend together the more I like her. She says “Gorgeous” and “Behbeh” like those are everyday words. As women, then couples, and then as a family we all hope to find a “match”. Someone with whom we can be ourselves with without worrying that they’ll call the police on us or have our kids taken away or just plain judge. That gets harder and harder to do as time goes on. This photo was taken their last night at the resort. We had 2 more nights to go. I am a little worried to be out of my “drinking” league, but the good thing about hanging with drinkers is as some point it doesn’t matter. People think I don’t like to drink, but that’s not true. I like to drink; I just don’t like to vomit. We had a great last night together, and I don’t know how, but they managed to get up bright and early the next morning for their journey home. I’m convinced they must sleep in hyperbaric chambers like Michael Jackson to party like its 1999 and stay fresh.

Christmas

We had a lovely day skiing. At this point, everyone is still falling, but we are able to get up faster. Knowing how sentimental Cliff is, I know he is feeling disappointed that the 3 of us are sitting at a hotel bar drinking and eating bar food Christmas night (see Dec 25th Blog entry). So I feel compelled to turn to him and say, “I had a great day and this is a great vacation.” And he just nods, and I know he’s thinking of Christmases past. “Hey,” I add, “There are a lot worse ways to spend Christmas.” One of the things I have noticed about spending Christmas in a non-Christian country is that it’s almost completely commercial. It’s devoid of religious meaning and seems lackluster no matter how many light shows shine and Christmas songs get played. I’ve been listening to Fox News again and the reports are always the same this time of year. How people are trying to kill Christmas or make it less offensive. So silly. I have always believed and taught Chase that there is no shame in loving. Be it Allah, Christ, Buddha, or whatever. I wish people would just appreciate the beauty in that. Any who, I digress. I’ll get off my soapbox now.

By the time it was time to leave, we were ready. Three people staying in 1 room and skiing 3 days in a row for people who don’t ski regularly is hard on the mind and body. Chase has his school ski trip coming up March 6th, 2012, so at least he won’t be completely “green.” On our way back to the Airport we stopped at the mushroom restaurant again, but we also stopped at another resort to pick up more people. I got off the bus to stretch my legs and when I went inside I saw this:

Unfortunately, the potato drink stand was closed, but that scary looking tree next to it talked and reminded me of my Koi. The minute I saw the potato drink stand I was instantly reminded of a friend I’ll call “Debra”. She is one of my many super smart, motivated, beautiful friends who had way too much time on her hands and way too much ability to stay at home (she has since quit working pro bono for her family). Anyhow, when we were brainstorming possible venues for her to channel all her energies, I suggested a Water Bar. I mean, who knew we would have to get in a car to get coffee, tea, smoothies, juice?!?!? I feel like the trend towards “designer waters” is so obvious. I suggested that she open up a water bar, but of course, this did not happen. If anyone decides to steal this idea, I am hoping to get a piece of the action by documenting in this blog. Don’t fight me, just give me 45% and I’ll leave you alone.

While in Hokkaido, I learned it is a town famous for its potatoes, milk, corn and ramen.

Speaking of ramen, Cliff was obsessed with having some Sapporo Ramen. Every town in Japan is known for some kind of food or experience and Cliff was not going to miss out. I thought we were going to miss our chance because we arrived at the airport late, but then we encountered this:

That white hair is like a beacon in the night

Living in a foreign country and traveling makes every trip feel like “The Amazing Race”. Evidently the poor weather had delayed a whole bunch of flights (including ours) so we had plenty of time. We found a row of Ramen restaurants on the 3rd floor and Cliff ordered the most popular dish.

If you are thinking, “Hey, that looks like a big pat of butter on that pile of ramen!” you are correct! BTW, don’t miss the big pile of corn there either! This is not your mamma’s ramen. This is Sapporo Miso Style Ramen. He said it was the best ramen he’s ever had in his life. This just goes to prove my theory that everything is better with butter and corn.

We finally ended up on a later flight and managed to get into Haneda Airport only 2 hours after our original time. When we got home, Chase opened up his gifts, and Cliff and I were able to unpack a little bit and start planning our next vacation.

The End

Until next time…

Asian Ski Vacation 2011 Part 1 Starring Cliff, Kathryn & Chase

December 28, 2011 By in Chase, Cliff, Culture Shock, Daily Living, Family, Japan, Japanese Excursions, Kathryn, Transportation Tags: , , , , , , , 2 Comments

Hokkaido, Japan

Our first ski trip in Japan. Destination: Niseko Hilton, Hokkaido.

We are flying Japan Air Lines (JAL) and by air, it takes about 1hr and 30 minutes. The plane tickets for JAL are a little smaller than the normal tickets and everyone uses the little square code to scan. I still haven’t figured out what those things are, but my guess, it’s the new bar code.

My plane ticket

From the Airport to Niseko, we took a bus which was another 2 & ½ hour ride. Fortunately, the bus did stop for a bathroom break at a funky mushroom restaurant. It was here that Cliff and Chase discovered their ultimate meal:

Whatever happened to pecan logs and pork rinds? I don’t know how they managed to impale sausages on rib bones but that just goes to show the genius of the Japanese.

Meat on a rib bone plus a Coke: “Breakfast of Champions” according to Cliff Wright.

Just a Spoon and a Bowl. Go at it!

As I looked around this Japanese Cracker Barrel, I noticed there was plenty of opportunity to sample. But this wasn’t sampling of easy finger foods, this was like relish… Who samples chutneys, relish, and pickles in the palm of your hand while on a road trip? The Japanese. That’s who.

Finally, we arrive at the hotel. One of the many ironies of Japan is on one end (Tokyo) you have uber luxurious, modern hotels and then when you go outside the city, you end up in places that look and feel like they were built in the 70’s and not recently renovated. I was pleasantly surprised by the Niseko Hilton because even though it might not have been modern or fresh, it definitely had a cool, groovy feel to it and lighting was very dim and thus flattering to all.

As we arrived, I was texting with Alexandra and we were coordinating a dinner rendezvous with her family and us. By now it was dinner time, and the sausage-ribs had long been digested. As we headed towards the room, I noticed something I had never seen in the States before. You know how sometimes (especially in the really nice hotels) you might find a vending snack machine or ice machine on a floor? Well, here at the Niseko Hilton, they have a free hot water/green tea machine for your convenience! How nice is that?!?

Hot Water AND Green Tea ANYTIME!

After we got settled in, we met up with Alexandra, Andrew, and their 2 boys Ollie & Max. Had dinner “off campus” at a local diner where the service was slow, but the sake was good and had a perfect ending to a long day of traveling. It never ceases to amaze me just how tiring sitting on your butt all day can be.

Our ski package came with breakfast at the hotel, so every morning we enjoyed a huge buffet breakfast at one of the Hilton Restaurants. Note to self; try not to stuff oneself before squeezing into tight ski layers and ski boots.

I like this picture of Chase and me for the same reason I like the picture of Cliff and me. Both pictures depict exactly what our vacation personalities are like.

Moving to Japan, I have come to delineate the nuance between city-shock and culture-shock. By no means am I an expert in ski or ski lodging, but I have never been to a ski rental where you could basically go to the resort without 1 piece of ski equipment (including clothing) and expect to rent EVERYTHING! And I saw quite a few Chinese, Taiwanese, Singaporeans, etc… do exactly that. Here is a picture of the rental form:

I don’t consider this culture shock as much as I think this is city-shock. Living in small apartments, people just don’t have the space to own a couple of ski jackets and skis and pants and all the big, bulky accessories that come with a sport like skiing, so when they go, they just go and rent everything. I can see how it makes sense if you don’t know any different, but for me, it’s kind of like having your own pool. You just can’t go public again.

The Niseko Hilton is the epitome of ski-in-ski-out accommodation. They have a fabulous ski valet service located in the hotel that stores your boots and skis, and the gondola and another ski lift is just steps outside the exit. Soooooo convenient. Just one warning, I don’t know if it’s just here in Niseko or not, but the lifts are VERY uncomfortable and we all suffered bruises on our backs and the legs. The gondolas are meant for 6 Asian people = 4 Non-Asian people. They are about the same size as a carriage in a small time country fair ride. The lift tickets are all automated so you don’t have a tag hanging off your jacket/pants and a scanner in the lift line scanning you like vegetables. You simply put the card in a pocket, and ski through a turnstile and get pushed through.

For the longest time I have observed other friends partake in the combination of ski-then-schvitz/sauna. I never indulged in this myself… until this trip. One of the awesome amenities of the resort is their access to a natural hot springs or “onsen”. Many people in Japan, heck Asia, love to get naked and dip themselves in mineral hot waters for their healing and invigorating effects. The Niseko Hilton has an indoor and outdoor onsen. Some hot springs are co-ed, but unfortunately this one was separated. Sitting in the hot, mineral water, feeling the cold air all around me, watching the snow falling as the sun began to set behind the pine trees, I had a moment of culture shock. Who am I? Where am I? What am I doing here?

It was all so impossibly beautiful and zen-like I could hardly believe I was awake! I did this after skiing 3 days in a row. The outdoor onsen is made like an infinity pool that bleeds out into the actual pond. The pond was close enough for me to reach out and touch. I found 3 koi fish (black, white and gold fishes) swimming right up to the onsen. I could have touched them if I liked. I don’t know why, but at one point, I started to scrape some of the winter algae off the edge of the rocks and I threw clumps at the fish hoping they might eat it –and they did! Then I started fantasizing that the fish were my friends and they could talk and they became my pets, and I would feed them every day and they would grant me wishes… maybe I stayed in the 115 degree water too long. Maybe the minerals were affecting me strangely. Who am I? Where am I? What am I doing here? Time to get dried off and meet Alexandra and Andrew for a drink.

To Be Continued…

Merry Christmas from Hokkaido 2011!

December 25, 2011 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , Leave a comment

20111225-190822.jpg

So it’s Christmas evening and it’s 7:13pm. Chase, Cliff and I are in the hotel bar. I started my alcohol cleanse as soon as Alexandra and Andrew left, but tonight I’m missing my friends and family and that wall of shiny bottles looks so tasty. Tomorrow we head back “home”. Will follow up with details about skiing in Japan. At least my version of it ;)

Until next time…

Boro Ichi, Girls Night Out and First Winter in Tokyo

December 21, 2011 By in Chase, Cliff, Culture Shock, Daily Living, Girlfriends, Japan, Japanese Excursions, Kathryn, Living in Tokyo, Pearls of wisdom, Tokyo, Uncategorized, useful Tags: , , , , , , , 2 Comments

I recently decided I was going to try to hit at least 1 festival each month. This month I heard about Boro Ichi. This is the Japanese equivalent of a flea market. It was actually being held in the same town as Chase’s school so I convinced Nghi to come with me to Chase’s class Christmas party and then hit the festival. She’s such a trooper.

Right off the train

Middle of the Festival

Believe it or not, I didn’t Photoshop that lady’s hair color. There is a lot of purple hair in Tokyo. I don’t know why.

Fish Sticks Japan-style

So of course Nghi and I got hungry after a while so we picked up some grilled fish on a stick from a street vendor. To quote Nghi, “Nice girls don’t eat this.” Many of you know, I am a sucker for any kind of street food. I just take my antibiotic shot in the butt and move on to the next cart. I have to admit, I love my “white sisters from other misters”, but I don’t think many of you would be so willing to eat what Nghi and I would. Probably for the best.

Believe it or not, later on this same day, I had a Girls Night Out (GNO) planned with other new friends. Alexandra, my “wealthiest-looking” new friend invited me along. Alexandra told me we had reservations at Gonpachi for 8pm. I have been wanting to try this place because it is where Uma Thurman’s big fight scene against Lucy Liu was shot for the movie Kill Bill.

Inside Gonpachi

I panicked when she said 8pm because that’s my bedtime. Is it a sign you are getting too old for GNO when you need a nap before going out? YES. Anyhow, not to be outdone by these expat doyennes, I put my big-girl panties on and headed out. Not only did we have a fantastic meal with lots of drinks, but then they convinced me to go to a bar called the Library. It’s one of these places where you will never find during the day. I think a portal to a fourth dimension opens up at 11:00pm and the door reveals itself in some dark alley only known to hardcore Tweetistas. How Chantal found this place I’ll never know. I did realize early on in the evening, I was WAAAAAY out of my night-life league.

At the Library

We were obviously located under “D” for drunk. One of the girls in our group turned out to be my neighbor at the Apartment! Estafania is sitting next to me. Both of us learned that night, if you find yourself eating pistachios with the shells on, it’s time to go home.

Last blog, I talked about probably the number one question that expats have to answer all the time: “Where are you from?” Then it’s, “How long have you been here?” Well, since this is our first winter here, I have come to realize starting somewhere mid-November, the new Question du jour becomes, “Where and When are you going for the holidays?” You hear a lot of people saying New Zealand, Bali, Bora Bora. A little different from Myrtle Beach, Destin, Columbia, and other places I am used to hearing about. There also doesn’t seem to be a lot of family pilgrimages, and that includes us which makes me sad. There are also more signs for sayonara sales on the bulletin boards for people leaving and of course there are people who are moving in. Tokyo has become as “quiet” as Tokyo can get:

December 21 2011 Train from Shibuya

The cold weather has got Chase and me hankering to do some knitting. This morning I went to Shimokitazawa for my 2nd attempt at a yarn shop (Puppy Yarn), and yes, those are earmuffs. One of the things that aggravates me about Japan is businesses open and shut like the wings of a hummingbird. No matter what your source is, ALWAYS call before attempting to visit any restaurant or store. I have had several experiences where I got all excited about some place only to find it had gone out of business or moved. I think my GNO recovery and some horrible virus teamed up to get me because the last few days I have been really sick. Poor Chase is not faring too well either and Cliff is really upset this is going to interfere with our plans to go to Hokkaido… tomorrow! I didn’t realize it but Cliff evidently graduated from the Mary Poppins School of Medicine. Everytime I turn around, he is walking around feeding us spoonfuls of honey. I guess that’s what happens when you can’t read the labels at the pharmacy.

Sorry for being all over the place. Being sick I had a lot to catch up on. Tomorrow we go to Niseko for a little ski trip. Will take pictures and report back as soon as possible.

Love and Merry Christmas Ya’ll.

Until next time…

“Where Are You From?” and Shopping in Tokyo

December 12, 2011 By in Culture Shock, Daily Living, Japan, Kathryn, Living in Tokyo, Pearls of wisdom, Tokyo, useful Tags: , , , , , , , Leave a comment

That's not really the state flag, but it is the state shape

A few weeks ago I was having lunch with 7 other ladies who were from around the world. Any initial conversation amongst expats involves the inevitable question of, “Where are you from?” Having lived in the U.S. most of my life and being Asian all of my life, I knew when I got this question in the States, the answer typically needed to be Korea. In the States, I don’t think it mattered how I answered because I “looked” different, I was considered exotic. In Tokyo, the asker may want to know either your nationality or your last international residence. So here I am, sitting at a table, with people who are from Paris, Dubai, Mongolia, New York (you get the picture) and everyone is tres chic and has a cool accent. When I answer, “Georgia” (somehow unable to avoid saying it with an extra syllable), off in the distance I swear I can hear the banjo from the movie Deliverance. It was such a strange experience realizing that I was on the trailer-side of the park now. Here I was thinking I had a little sophistication under my belt only to realize that belt was made of twine. I cannot say I blame them, for who amongst us hasn’t made a stereotype. I really don’t think it helps that Wikipedia references Georgia in its definition of Redneck! -My Hand to Gawd it surely does (Thank you Charlotte Ann)! It makes me suspicious that perhaps it’s those Damn Northern Yankees controllin’ the Wikipedia. Evidently those wires don’t reach that far South for us to make a difference on the internet. So when you arrive, just be prepared for people to start talking extra loud and slowly once you inform them you are from any of the Southern states.

SHOPPING:

Tis the season, so I have been doing my part to boost the Japanese economy. To be honest, I do not really enjoy shopping. I will typically only shop if I have a particular item I need or want. I find it to be exhausting and a little frivolous. But if I have to do it, I enjoy doing it with a friend. Yesterday, Cliff and Chase were going to be at baseball from 11:45-6:30pm so I decided to knock out some Christmas shopping. I called Nghi because she is fun and has no kids and enjoys exploring. We went to the Ginza Shopping area:

Chou Dori: 2-5pm Saturdays & 12-6pm Sundays

Notice anything missing? Cars! During the weekends, Chou Dori (name of main shopping street) is blocked off so that shoppers can stroll around wherever! I didn’t even notice until Nghi pointed it out. I figured it was a Christmas thing, but I think it’s just what they do to “honor the customer”.

Honoring the customer is clearly evidenced anywhere you go in Tokyo. Whether you are passing restaurants, food stalls, boutiques or whatever, if there is someone there who could potentially “serve” you, you will know it. I’ll admit, I find all the kowtowing a bit awkward, but now I also see it as something so unique and special about the Japanese. Coming from the South, where someone would rather shoot you than bow low and take your order, I see it as a sign of gratitude and respect. Just know that they say “irasshaimase” a lot and everywhere. Over here, if the clerk sees a line forming, they are VERY apologetic and will call any free person in to help at another register and everyone just moves a little faster. In Atlanta, if a line starts forming, the clerk is usually in their own world (possibly texting on a phone) and they may take the time to look over their shoulder to see just how long that line is getting, and I SWEAR…….. they go slower.

When you decide on what you will purchase, the sales person will tell you your total AND show you your total on a calculator. There is almost always a little oblong or rectangular dish for you to lay your money down. This way there need be no physical contact between lowly salesperson and most high Kokyakusama (clientele).

Paying for Goods

After making change (if necessary) they will carefully count out the difference to you and hand it over. Then, they carefully wrap or gift bag your most recent purchase. Sometimes I have been frustrated with this process because the Japanese take wrapping super serious and this means there is no “running in” to pick something up. I have found the phrase, “Fukuro ni irenaide onegaishimasu” to be useful because it means “please don’t put it inside a bag”. Then (probably to their horror) I just chuck whatever into my backpack. However, when I do have the time to go through the whole shebang, there is more. Once transaction is complete, the salesperson will carry your new purchase prettily wrapped or bagged and escort you to the front of the store and hand the bag to you at the door. It took me a couple of times to understand the choreography of this, but I guess once you’ve paid, they want your ass out of there.

Thank you for shopping with us.

They will also stand by the door and bow until you are out of sight. It can all seem unnecessary sometimes, but if all the ritual and customer attention wasn’t there, I might as well be in Georgia.

Until next time…

“Yes Kathryn, There is a Santa Claus” and Meeting Cliff’s Doppleganger

December 10, 2011 By in Uncategorized Tags: , , 2 Comments
In front of St. Mary’s International

Today was Christmas concert day at St. Mary’s International School for boys. Chase needed to get there a little earlier since he was singing in the 4th grade chorus, but the school provided a nice distraction in the way of a charity sale of course. Right after this photograph, Chase went his way and Cliff and I headed for the auditorium to score seats and then walk around the sale. The first thing I noticed was the books. I ended up buying a couple of skill books for Chase to work on hopefully over winter break (I gotta dream big). Mostly I saw chochskis and food and used uniforms. I was beginning to head out when we actually bumped into some familiar people and start chatting with them. Then as we were standing there, I heard someone call out my name and it was another mom I had met at the beginning of the school year, sitting down at one of the tables getting something done to her ear. I was so curious so I had to find out more. The vendor was providing the latest healing trend from Taiwan called Bodyface. Body face is Auricular Acupuncture Crystal Diamond! —–sssshhhhhhh… Do you hear angels singing? I did! I must admit, I always knew jewelry had the power to heal and now I am vindicated. There was a list of people waiting to be serviced.

This was the GUY I had to wait on to go next.

I asked the mom who was undergoing the procedure what she was “curing” and she said, “Headaches and Diet”. Friends, you will not be disappointed. Of course I signed up! I got bedazzled for Lower back pain, Lifting (I’m not sure if this was meant for boobs or face or knees, but I figure I could use lifting just about anywhere), and Gastrointestinal health. She either liked me so much or just felt sorry for me because she threw some stress stones on me as well.

Blogger's Actual Ear

The way it works is whenever you are feeling discomfort or stress in any of the anointed areas you press or pinch the associated gem until you begin to feel better. The gems are supposed to stay on for at least 3 weeks. I’m thinking longer if I can convince my hairstylist to give me some of those ear covers. I was wearing a set of love knots in my ears at the time, but I had to remove them or I wouldn’t be able to get my “Lift” gem therapy. She did both left and right ears the same. I think it is cool. I’m waiting to see how long it will take for the gems to fall off. Either way, who doesn’t feel better with a little bling on them?
I’m going backwards now, but yesterday night was Cliff’s Heidrick & Struggles Christmas Party. I told Cliff 3 years ago that I wasn’t going to attend anymore of these functions. I don’t mind being the good wife and all that at home, but the parties were so difficult for me, especially since I am so shy and reticent to talk with people. :) Truthfully, I just hate chit chat and I hate not remembering people’s names and the food is never that good, it’s just not fun. Well, last year Cliff tricked me into going to the party by volunteering to host it at our house! Then, this year he asked that I attend and I told him (this is the truth) in Japan, spouses are NOT invited to attend work functions. Not even parties. I explained this to Cliff thinking it was my ticket out, but he said H & S is a global company and he would really like me to go so I broke down, but I told him not to assume I would be coming back next year. I’ll admit, the food was terrific, and the venue was very cozy. Bonne Femme is the name of the French Restaurant they picked. I was also impressed that the office (about 30 people) were all very above average in looks. And then, to my amusement, I met Cliff’s Japanese Doppelganger!

Cliff & Katsuo

Am I right? or am I right. It was hilarious. Cliff gave a very nice speech and everyone seemed to have a great time.
In the end, I’m glad I went.
Until next time…

PvZ, Kathryn’s Book Club, Daily Living

December 7, 2011 By in bicycle, cell phones, Japan, Kathryn, Living in Tokyo, Pearls of wisdom, Tokyo, Transportation, Weather Tags: , , , , , 2 Comments

Enough already! I blame the holidays and getting hit with December’s slow book selection on my book club list. The last few weeks I have become addicted to the game Plants Versus Zombies which I downloaded onto my iPhone. At first I was doing it to torture Chase after I took his game away from him, but very soon after, I found myself drawn into this world and talking strategy with my son. Let me just say, I think there is a light at the end of the tunnel because I have completed adventure mode 3 times and almost earned all the achievements (Did I actually own that?!?). I am determined to start reading again. January’s book selection is Temple of the Golden Pavilion by Yukio Mishima. I’m channeling my inner Oprah and attaching the link to purchase in case any of you want to read this novel with me. Hopefully, the book will provide some interesting new insights on my daily living observations and maybe just be an interesting read for you all.

I need to address some more daily living topics for anyone who is a new expat or is planning to be an expat here.

There’s No Time Change

When your day starts getting dark by 4:30pm and then pitch black by 5:00pm, you get tired and hungry earlier. I wake up around 5:55am and sunrise is usually after 6:30am. The days feel so short. It feels like I barely have time to get my workout in and buy groceries. Some research has shown that shorter days can result in a Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) also known as depression. I don’t know if this is a symptom, but the other day after I worked to get my skinny pants on I realized the zipper was stuck and no yoga move was going to save me and I HAD to peel those suckers off my post-shower booty, I nearly had a break down. If anyone had seen me they may have mistakenly diagnosed me with epilepsy, but it was just me struggling to get those pants off to fix the zipper! I don’t know. Maybe I’m getting S.A.D. Thinking about it now, I’m getting that feeling again…

What’s up with the Telephone Numbers?

I’m no dummy. That being said, I swear it has taken me this long to get used to the “extra” digits in the phone numbers. The common practice to exchange information is just finding the add contact screen and pass the phone over. In the US, normally you have the 3 digit area code and then 7 digits that follow: (xxx) xxx-xxxx. Here in Japan, you can have a 2 OR 3 digit prefix and then 8 digits that follow: (xx/yyy) xxxx-xxxx. I try not to think about it too much. Thank God iPhone just dials the number when you hit the person’s name. In this fast-paced society where we are all loathe to hit DELETE one too many times, just the thought of punching each digit tires me. In a previous blog I talked more about establishing a service for your new phone. Just refer to that if you need that kind of information.

Cash

Medium Starch

When I was going through my ex-pat orientation, I was given the advice to always carry at least 30,000 Yen ($385.98) in my pocket. Japan is definitely on the cash system. There are places that will accept cards (and btw, cards here only go to Gold status. There is no Platinum) but it isn’t uncommon for people to walk around with $800-$1,000 in cash. This was a little strange for me in the beginning because I NEVER carried cash in the States. Ever since my bachelorette party, I came to the conclusion cash is dirty. I charged everything. Is it just me, or does it seem like corporations and maybe even the government sort of encourages that consumer behaviour? Maybe if people used cash that they had in the bank more, they wouldn’t be in such a financial bind. Oh well, I’m talking about things I shouldn’t be talking about. I have gotten used to using cash and 30,000 yen is about right. The transition was made easier because, I think they iron the paper money. I have NEVER received a wrinkly, dirty bill that looked like it was shoved into a G-string or used to snort cocaine. Every bill I get is crisp and flat like it was freshly pressed. FYI, when you need an ATM, you will find them in any convenience store.

Just as a final note, I’m not quite sure what I am going to do if it gets any colder. My bicycle (Every time I type bicycle, I hear Queen in my head singing “Bye!!!!-Sickle! I want to ride my bicycle!!!!”) is my primary mode of transportation.  I have discovered driving your bicycle fast in 40-something degrees, with the cold air slapping you in the face and tears rolling down your cheeks, is just plain unattractive and that’s while you’re moving. Not to mention, your bike never “warms up”. The windshield doesn’t “defrost”. You start cold and your ass stays cold. I’ve started wearing boots and my socks on the outside of my pant legs. Nghi was telling me that there are bicycle mittens I can get. Last night, I looked at my hands but could hardly believe they were mine and not some crypt-keeper’s.

Queen

Until next time….

Stranger Danger

December 5, 2011 By in Chase, Daily Living, Disaster Kit, Japan, Kathryn, Living in Tokyo, Pearls of wisdom, Uncategorized Tags: , , , , , , 1 Comment

Picture of Well-Adjusted Boy

After my last blog entry and subsequent comments and emails from other people “confessing” their own secret safety training practices at home, I thought it was time to come clean. I mean, Chase is 10, he isn’t cutting himself, wearing Goth make-up or clothing, he likes to talk about his feelings and thus far (knock on wood, no one has asked for ransom for him yet). I may have to expand this blog further down the road into a full-fledged parenting blog, but only if the public demands it:

  • AS you all know by now, I used to drape my body on Chase’s back and make him carry me across distances whilst whispering in his ears, “What if I can’t walk? Hey! Where are we going?!”
  • At some point your child needs to also be able to pick you up from a prone position on the floor. He probably needs to be older since as we all know this can be hard on the back. Chase is a large child, so I started this with him at 7.
  • When Chase entered Pre-school we developed a secret word. This meant if someone unexpected offered him a ride he could ask them for the secret word and if they didn’t know it he knew he should NEVER get in. Not even if it was Grandma behind the wheel.
  • When Cliff and I decided we were ready to start leaving Chase alone in the hotel room, beforehand I would test him by telling him to 1)Lock the Door 2)Don’t open the door for ANYONE 3)Don’t call anyone (this one was mainly so Cliff and I wouldn’t go to jail for neglect). The first time I tried this, I left. Waited a few minutes. Came back and disguised my voice, “Room Service!” and he opened the door wide open in his underwear. I knew then, we were in for a long training process.

Hotel Training: The Early Years

  • Once Chase entered elementary school and I acquired my own personal firearms, I decided to train him for the Bad Man Plan. This has 2 scenarios : Chase is in his room sleeping by himself upstairs and 2) Chase is sleeping in my room because Dad is away.
  • Bad Man Plan 1: If Chase hears crazy noises, gunshots, screaming and whatnot he is never supposed to come downstairs and “see what’s all the noise about?” He had a secret hiding place near his room and he was instructed not to make a sound or leave that place until one of mom’s friends or his aunt’s voice called out to him. I told him not to trust anyone saying they were the police or even my own voice because I could be threatened to call him out.
  • Bad Man Plan 2: Once we heard intruders in the house, we go into silent mode. We both practiced rolling off the bed, him to his secret hiding place and me to grab my gun and knife and take position to shoot at whoever walked through the bedroom door. There were hand signals in case we needed to communicate. If I was injured during a shootout, Chase knew he would either need to pick me up from my prone position or I would try to drape myself onto his back. Knowing we had such plans, Cliff was never inclined to come home unannounced.

Now that I have revealed just some of my safe parenting tips, I realize that some of you may think I’m a little paranoid. That’s ok. Now we live in one of the safest street cities in the world. Chase takes the subway for an hour by himself. I don’t think twice walking home alone at night. Have I been overprotective? Maybe. I guess I feel somewhat vindicated like the Bush administration in that we’ve been safe thus far. You never realize just how vulnerable you are until something as precious as your own child enters the world. Some of my practices may seem unorthodox, maybe a little insane. Some of you may think I didn’t and haven’t done enough. My advice: just do what makes you feel secure. In fact, please feel free to share any safety practices you do at home. Don’t worry about your identity, nobody believes it’s your real name anyway right?

Until next time…

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