Whilst driving around the streets of Japan, I've realised how many people decorate the insides of their cars. And by decorate, I mean cover. And by cover, I mean fill with so many fluffy animals, fake snow, and hanging dangling things that it's a wonder the drivers can even see through the windows!
It's insane. I've seen fully grown men driving around with Micky mouse steering wheel covers, dashboards covered in thirty or so fluffy Stitch dolls, back windscreens with so many animals that you almost want to smash into them just to see the toys go flying, and fake snow, or flowers almost completely covering the windows.
But there's nothing quite like the things I've seen dangling from the rearview mirror. Sometimes there are so many things hanging off it you wonder if the driver ever knocks themself out when they turn a sharp corner - charms from shrines, big fluffy toys, plastic toys, beads, make-up bags. I think in Japan they seem to have taken the world of the fluffy dice to extreme.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Monday, May 26, 2008
Strange finding
So, today I had a bit of spare time before my lesson and was wandering around looking for a vending machine cos' it was ridiculously hot.
And then there on the pavement, down by my feet was a porno video. I could tell exactly what it was because of the rather dodgy semi-clad, (and several unclad) ladies decorating the front of it. But I wasn't really sure what to do with it. You see there's an elementary school and a community centre just round the corner and it was just after 3, which is typical going home time for the little ones. And even I think 5 is probably a little young to be learning about things like that. So I didn't really think I should leave it there. But then what if it was like a Japanese version of Punk'd or something? Or maybe the owner had just dropped it and would race back to find their prized video.
As I wasn't really sure what to do with it, I waited five minutes, then phoned a friend - who told me to head back and if it was still there, pick it up. So I did. And it was. And I did. And now I seem to own a rather dubious video that I wouldn't otherwise. Hmmm what a weird day!
And then there on the pavement, down by my feet was a porno video. I could tell exactly what it was because of the rather dodgy semi-clad, (and several unclad) ladies decorating the front of it. But I wasn't really sure what to do with it. You see there's an elementary school and a community centre just round the corner and it was just after 3, which is typical going home time for the little ones. And even I think 5 is probably a little young to be learning about things like that. So I didn't really think I should leave it there. But then what if it was like a Japanese version of Punk'd or something? Or maybe the owner had just dropped it and would race back to find their prized video.
As I wasn't really sure what to do with it, I waited five minutes, then phoned a friend - who told me to head back and if it was still there, pick it up. So I did. And it was. And I did. And now I seem to own a rather dubious video that I wouldn't otherwise. Hmmm what a weird day!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
So, it's been a while
Yeah, I know gomen (sorry) it's been a while.
The thing is, I so often see things and think hey I should remember this, it's weird enough to fit in on my weird and wonderful world of Japan blog and I should get it down there so people can really see what a weird country it is. But then stuff happens, you get busy, and then you forget. Must happen to everyone. One minute it's there and the next huh what is it that I can't remember, what seemed so interesting before? cos' suddenly I have no idea and it's not there anymore.
Then it comes back to you, and then you get busy and it goes, comes back, goes, comes back and then finally it goes again. Yeah, it's something to do with ...... yeah can't remember right now. Get back to you later ......well maybe ....
The thing is, I so often see things and think hey I should remember this, it's weird enough to fit in on my weird and wonderful world of Japan blog and I should get it down there so people can really see what a weird country it is. But then stuff happens, you get busy, and then you forget. Must happen to everyone. One minute it's there and the next huh what is it that I can't remember, what seemed so interesting before? cos' suddenly I have no idea and it's not there anymore.
Then it comes back to you, and then you get busy and it goes, comes back, goes, comes back and then finally it goes again. Yeah, it's something to do with ...... yeah can't remember right now. Get back to you later ......well maybe ....
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Vending Machines
One of the first things you'll notice in Japan are the vending machines. They are everywhere. And I mean EVERYWHERE!! On top of a mountain, at the beach, every street corner. The most common are the drink vending machines. They are on every street corner, and sometimes there are rows and rows of them all together. You can never go very far without bumping into a vending machine, even out in the countryside. Some of them even do hot as well as cold drinks, hot tea and coffee in cans.
And then there are the other vending machines - the ones that sell weird things like noodles, cigarettes, beer, saki or condoms. My friend had a beer vending machine in the lobby of her apartment, just in case the residents got thirsty in the night I guess.
One thing I don't get is the cigarette machines. Most of them turn off at automatically at eleven at night and turn on again at six a.m. Someone once told me it was to stop kids buying cigarettes. But how many kids would be out looking for cigarettes at 3 a.m? Surely it would be more logical to have them off during the day and turn them on between 11 and 6, when all those wanna be cigarette smoking children are in bed?
Well I'm out of diet coke so I'd better head out to the machine on the corner and get another can.
And then there are the other vending machines - the ones that sell weird things like noodles, cigarettes, beer, saki or condoms. My friend had a beer vending machine in the lobby of her apartment, just in case the residents got thirsty in the night I guess.
One thing I don't get is the cigarette machines. Most of them turn off at automatically at eleven at night and turn on again at six a.m. Someone once told me it was to stop kids buying cigarettes. But how many kids would be out looking for cigarettes at 3 a.m? Surely it would be more logical to have them off during the day and turn them on between 11 and 6, when all those wanna be cigarette smoking children are in bed?
Well I'm out of diet coke so I'd better head out to the machine on the corner and get another can.
k, this is not about anything weird or wonderful or Japan.
1. Do you like having your picture taken. - No, I try to avoid it, but some people are just snap happy.
2. Have you ever done a photo shoot, professional or non? - No
3. If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go and why? - Scotland, and to my Mum and Dad's for a Mum cooked meal. I miss them
4. Who would you take with you on this adventure? - Taka. He looks hungry, and otherwise I'd miss him too.
5. What would you say is the most daring thing to do in a lifetime. - Have kids, and try to bring them up without messing them up too bad.
6. Would you ever do that? - Yeah, I hope so. In a year or two.
7. Have you ever done crossword puzzles? - Yes
8. Ever actually completed one? - yes.
9. Pick up the closest book and write a sentence at random from it. - And right on cue, off in the woods, came a horrible howl. Barb screamed. That set off more screams.
10. Do the same with either a CD or a lyric from the radio. - You scumbag, you maggot, you cheap lousy faggot.
11. Have you ever tried to analyze your own dreams? - Yeah, a bit.
12. Would you put up posters in your room? - cool ones maybe
13. Can you sing? - Yes, well I try.
14. Do you ever sing to yourself while doing every day tasks? - Yeah, can't you hear me?
15. What's your favorite color of post-it note? - Blue
16. How many cassette tapes do you own? - No. Do they still make them?
17. How many CDs do you own? - Dunno
Ever bought a CD just for one song? - Yep
19. What would your perfect day consist of? - A yummy picnic on some beautiful beach.
20. Have you ever lied to get off the phone or out of talking to someone online? - Yes!
21. Have you ever written a survey? - No.
22. How about a song? If so, share it. - Yes, ut it was when I was nine and the words have slipped my mind.
23. Or maybe a poem? If so share it or one of them. - Well, it's more of a rhyming book for kids. But I guess it could be classed as a poem. Here's the first verse.
'Have you ever been down to Bingoola land and the swamps of Elfezall, where down by the river of Zoobidiller live the elephants who love to play ball'
24. Is your VCR flashing 12:00 all the time? - VCR??? Who still has oen of them?
25. Do you read your horoscope? -Sometimes.
26. If so do you base your day on it? - No way.
27. Would you rather chew gum or use mouthwash, and why? - Gum I guess
28. Do you floss? - Sometimes - when I remember
29. Are you addicted to Napster? - No.
30. How many times a year (about) are you sick? - Two or three. Get a couple of bouts of tonsilitus every year.
31. Ever been in an airplane? - Uh yes.
32. If so, where were you flying to? - Oh everywhere. Usually back and forth to Scotland from wherever I am living at the time. At the moment it's Japan obviously.
34. What color are your shoes? - Mostly black.
35. Was Fuzzy Wuzzy a bear? Yes, he was.
36. Do you know how to play Dominos? Yeah, you line them up and knock em over don't you? Na I also know the proper way too but that's more boring.
37. Or do you think I just mean pizza by that? - No, but there pizza is good too.
38. Speaking of pizza, what's your favorite kind? - Oh something spicy with salami and jalapenos and things
39. What color are your eyes? - Hazel
40. How many surveys have you filled out this lifetime? - Heaps
41. Describe your bedroom. - Umm big double bed, and a wee shelf like thing and a cool jewellery stand thingy.
42. Name one person your life is made better by. - Taka. Taka. Taka. Couldn't live without him.
43. Would you or have you ever shaved your head? - No way!!
44. How about someone else's? - Yes it was fun. I had his permission though ;P
45. Can you do math with ease? - Yes, but only with a calculator.
46. What size is your computer screen? - Normal laptop size I guess
47. If you could only talk to one person online who would it be? - My Mum. (Remember I miss them ;( )
48. Name your favorite type of music and why? - Something easy to listen to.
49. Are you a vegetarian? - No, carnivore all the way!
50. How about an aspiring actor/actress? - No
51. What famous person, dead or alive, would you interview if you had the chance? - Billy Connolly
52. Which movie can you watch and say the lines along with the actors? - None, but I can with TV shows like Friends as I have watched them so many times.
53. Name one of your passions in life. - Reading
54. What is your least favorite time of day? - morning
55. Who is your favorite member in a band (singer, guitar, bass, drummer...) and why? - Don't really have one.
56. Do you use hairspray or gel? - Neither
57. Describe your favorite meal. - Smoked salmon, prawn marie rose, and avocado and a salad and glass of white wine.
58. What color is the inside of your head when you close your eyes? - At the moment it's purple, but I don't know if it changes.
59. Ever listen to classical music? - Yes occasionally.
60. Have you ever said LOL in real life without thinking about it. - No
61. Do you find you use Internet language when writing notes IRL? - not really internet language but often my own short form.
62. What songs would be on your ideal CD? - Oh I dunno
63. Say one thing you learned today. - milky alcohol drinks make you full and sleepy.
64. What is the best present you've ever given someone else? - Dunno about best really.
65. What is the best present someone else has ever given you? - My engagement ring.
66. So hey, what's your full name? - Don't laugh, but seriously it's - Marama Clare Carmichael of Carmichael.
67. Describe yourself while drunk. - You tell me. I'm a little drunk right now ;P. BUt I would say talkative.
68. How big are the windows in your house? - Big door like windows.
69. Do you wear a watch? - Yep .
70. What's the kinkiest thing you've ever done with someone else? - Nothing kinky really. Still working on that.
71. What's the largest age difference between you and someone you've dated? - Couple of years.
72. How many mirrors do you have? - One
73. Write one sentence you want people to say about you once you've passed on. - Maz isn't dead! Look, she's breathing!
74. Have you ever sailed? - Yes.
75. How fast can you run? - Umm, not fast.
76. What do you believe in? - Treat others as you would like them to treat you. And don't take life too seriously - it'll only get you down.
77. How long does it take you to get ready to go out? - half an hour
78. Do you shower daily? - Yep.
79. What one thing would you change in your life if you had the power to do so? - Would love to have a bit more money.
80. Describe the ideal superpower and what you would do if you had it. - travel long distances really fast. I could get home for dinner.
81. Are candles romantic or a fire hazard? - Romantic
82. Name something you've done in the last 24 hours, no matter how big or small. - played scrabble
83. Do you wear necklaces/bracelets/anklets/earrings/rings? - Yes
84. What colors are you wearing right now? - Blue PJ bottoms and a black hoodie
85. How often do you change the sheets on your bed? - About once a fortnight
86. Have you ever gotten lost? If so, explain? - I get lost almost daily. How long you got? Actually worst was when I was fifteen and got lost in the Scottish wilderness for about four hours!
87. What's on your computer desk? - Desk? It's a laptop. On my lap.
88. How many folders are on your desktop at the present moment? - really dunno and can't be bothered to look.
89. When you're talking do you ever use your hands in the air to do quotation marks of certain words? - I wave my hands a bit, but don't do air quotes.
90. Which landmark would you climb if you could? - Machu peechu (though I can't spell it!)
91. Do you own or have you read or thought of reading any self help books. - Yes, I think so.
92. Ever seriously questioned your sanity? - Yes, daily. It's okay I think sane people are boring.
93. Can you break-dance? - Definitely not.
94. What's in your fridge right now? - Cabbage, and other veggies. Ham, bacon and cottage cheese.
95. How many people do you live with? - One, Taka.
96. Have you or would you ever do anything more than kiss in a public area? - Maybe....
97. What is the strangest thing you've ever done? - Um, does Taka count? He's pretty strange
98. Name an instrument you've never played but would like to. - the harp
99. Have you ever been on TV or the radio? - yes a couple of times
100. What is the worst thing anyone could ever do to you? -
101. Are you a fast typer? - yep, pretty fast.
102. How high have you counted before getting bored? - 10...I have a short attention span.
103. Describe how you sleep. - In bed with Taka and pink panther.
104. Are you straight/bi/gay? - Straight
105. Do you ever do something else while on the computer? If so, what? - Watch movies, chat, play games, tickle Taka.
106. What is the most expensive item you own? - our car
107. How about the least expensive? - dunno,a 100 yen pen or something
108. What's your favorite card game to play? - racing diamonds
109. What do you do online? - write, shop, talk to friends and family
110. Name some stores you've bought clothes in before? - Next
111. Have you ever read a book and not understood it? If so, which one? - No, but I'd just get bored and quit if I didn't get it.
112. Have you ever watched a movie and not understood it? If so, which one? - Oh yes. Yesterday, it was called Palendromes. Weird, weird stuff.
113. Do you think people pick up your slang language more than you pick up theirs? No
114. Are you easily influences by other people or current trends? - Yes people. No, trends.
115. What makes you unique (in your own opinion)? - The ability to cheer people up and make them laugh.
116. Name your worst quality. - indecisiveness. I hate it.
117. Name your best. - sense of humour
118. What would you like to do with your life? - I would like to be a published author.
119. Do you blow-dry your hair? - yep
120. How many clocks are in your house? - none
121. Are they all set at the same time? -
122. Have you ever intentionally set a clock ahead or behind the correct time? - No
123. What do you think about when you first wake up in the morning? - Going to the toilet
124. Which browser do you use? - Internet Explorer
125. Do you bite your nails? - NO
126. Would you ever leave little notes to your gf/bf? - yes, I do often.
127. Ever been to a farm? - yes. My fmaily has a farm
128. Tell me about your dream last night. - don't remember
129. Ever seen a shooting star? - yes, many
130. Say one thing about yourself you've never told anyone. - I often feel anxious for no reason at all. Especially if I am hungover.
131. Do your days fly by or seem to last forever? - fly by
132. Have you ever stayed in a fancy, high class, rich hotel? - unfortunately, no
133. Have you ever stayed in a rent-by-the-hour motel? - NO!
134. What, in your opinion, is the best advertising slogan out there? - A Mars a day helps you work rest and play.
135. When they start sending rockets to the moon for us civillians will you be on the list to go? - No, sounds scary.
136. How are you feeling right now? - A little hungover and like I am getting a cold.
137. Have you ever written anything on your skin? - yes frequently.
138. If so what? - feed cat, buy shampoo. You know.. reminders and stuff.
139. Which website do you frequent most often? - hotmail and facebook.
140. What color is most of your clothes? - different colours.
141. Do you own any plants? - We have our own wee jungle on the balcony - hibiscus, rose and a big rubber plant.
142. Are things as bad as they seem? - Na never. Have a drink and call a friend.
143. Describe the nicest thing anyone has ever done for you. - my parents are organising and peying for my wedding which is pretty nice I think.
144. Have you ever looked directly at the sun? - Yes
145. Have you ever made a pin hole camera to watch the eclipse? - No
146. What's your favorite cereal? - rice crispies
147. What do you miss? - Family, friends, access to hp sauce and decent deodorant and toothpaste. Being able to read signs and sort things out without needing help.
148. Name something you just cannot forget, no matter how hard you try- adverts from years and years ago.
'He said, you can make brown. I said, who? He said, you. I said, me? He said, yes. I said, oh. He , said will you make brown? I said, who? He said, you. I said me? He said, yes. I said, no.'
And all the words to the milky way red car and blue car adverts.
Useless I know.
149. Describe the worst fight you've ever been in whether physical or verbal. - Don't really fight much.
150. Say something else about yourself you've never told anyone before. - Something else? Ok, I'm scared of things that jump or move too much, or make a loud noise.
Phewww! The end. Actually it's all about me so it probably is weird and wonderful, and I'm in Japan so it does kind of fit ;p
2. Have you ever done a photo shoot, professional or non? - No
3. If you could go anywhere in the world where would you go and why? - Scotland, and to my Mum and Dad's for a Mum cooked meal. I miss them
4. Who would you take with you on this adventure? - Taka. He looks hungry, and otherwise I'd miss him too.
5. What would you say is the most daring thing to do in a lifetime. - Have kids, and try to bring them up without messing them up too bad.
6. Would you ever do that? - Yeah, I hope so. In a year or two.
7. Have you ever done crossword puzzles? - Yes
8. Ever actually completed one? - yes.
9. Pick up the closest book and write a sentence at random from it. - And right on cue, off in the woods, came a horrible howl. Barb screamed. That set off more screams.
10. Do the same with either a CD or a lyric from the radio. - You scumbag, you maggot, you cheap lousy faggot.
11. Have you ever tried to analyze your own dreams? - Yeah, a bit.
12. Would you put up posters in your room? - cool ones maybe
13. Can you sing? - Yes, well I try.
14. Do you ever sing to yourself while doing every day tasks? - Yeah, can't you hear me?
15. What's your favorite color of post-it note? - Blue
16. How many cassette tapes do you own? - No. Do they still make them?
17. How many CDs do you own? - Dunno
Ever bought a CD just for one song? - Yep
19. What would your perfect day consist of? - A yummy picnic on some beautiful beach.
20. Have you ever lied to get off the phone or out of talking to someone online? - Yes!
21. Have you ever written a survey? - No.
22. How about a song? If so, share it. - Yes, ut it was when I was nine and the words have slipped my mind.
23. Or maybe a poem? If so share it or one of them. - Well, it's more of a rhyming book for kids. But I guess it could be classed as a poem. Here's the first verse.
'Have you ever been down to Bingoola land and the swamps of Elfezall, where down by the river of Zoobidiller live the elephants who love to play ball'
24. Is your VCR flashing 12:00 all the time? - VCR??? Who still has oen of them?
25. Do you read your horoscope? -Sometimes.
26. If so do you base your day on it? - No way.
27. Would you rather chew gum or use mouthwash, and why? - Gum I guess
28. Do you floss? - Sometimes - when I remember
29. Are you addicted to Napster? - No.
30. How many times a year (about) are you sick? - Two or three. Get a couple of bouts of tonsilitus every year.
31. Ever been in an airplane? - Uh yes.
32. If so, where were you flying to? - Oh everywhere. Usually back and forth to Scotland from wherever I am living at the time. At the moment it's Japan obviously.
34. What color are your shoes? - Mostly black.
35. Was Fuzzy Wuzzy a bear? Yes, he was.
36. Do you know how to play Dominos? Yeah, you line them up and knock em over don't you? Na I also know the proper way too but that's more boring.
37. Or do you think I just mean pizza by that? - No, but there pizza is good too.
38. Speaking of pizza, what's your favorite kind? - Oh something spicy with salami and jalapenos and things
39. What color are your eyes? - Hazel
40. How many surveys have you filled out this lifetime? - Heaps
41. Describe your bedroom. - Umm big double bed, and a wee shelf like thing and a cool jewellery stand thingy.
42. Name one person your life is made better by. - Taka. Taka. Taka. Couldn't live without him.
43. Would you or have you ever shaved your head? - No way!!
44. How about someone else's? - Yes it was fun. I had his permission though ;P
45. Can you do math with ease? - Yes, but only with a calculator.
46. What size is your computer screen? - Normal laptop size I guess
47. If you could only talk to one person online who would it be? - My Mum. (Remember I miss them ;( )
48. Name your favorite type of music and why? - Something easy to listen to.
49. Are you a vegetarian? - No, carnivore all the way!
50. How about an aspiring actor/actress? - No
51. What famous person, dead or alive, would you interview if you had the chance? - Billy Connolly
52. Which movie can you watch and say the lines along with the actors? - None, but I can with TV shows like Friends as I have watched them so many times.
53. Name one of your passions in life. - Reading
54. What is your least favorite time of day? - morning
55. Who is your favorite member in a band (singer, guitar, bass, drummer...) and why? - Don't really have one.
56. Do you use hairspray or gel? - Neither
57. Describe your favorite meal. - Smoked salmon, prawn marie rose, and avocado and a salad and glass of white wine.
58. What color is the inside of your head when you close your eyes? - At the moment it's purple, but I don't know if it changes.
59. Ever listen to classical music? - Yes occasionally.
60. Have you ever said LOL in real life without thinking about it. - No
61. Do you find you use Internet language when writing notes IRL? - not really internet language but often my own short form.
62. What songs would be on your ideal CD? - Oh I dunno
63. Say one thing you learned today. - milky alcohol drinks make you full and sleepy.
64. What is the best present you've ever given someone else? - Dunno about best really.
65. What is the best present someone else has ever given you? - My engagement ring.
66. So hey, what's your full name? - Don't laugh, but seriously it's - Marama Clare Carmichael of Carmichael.
67. Describe yourself while drunk. - You tell me. I'm a little drunk right now ;P. BUt I would say talkative.
68. How big are the windows in your house? - Big door like windows.
69. Do you wear a watch? - Yep .
70. What's the kinkiest thing you've ever done with someone else? - Nothing kinky really. Still working on that.
71. What's the largest age difference between you and someone you've dated? - Couple of years.
72. How many mirrors do you have? - One
73. Write one sentence you want people to say about you once you've passed on. - Maz isn't dead! Look, she's breathing!
74. Have you ever sailed? - Yes.
75. How fast can you run? - Umm, not fast.
76. What do you believe in? - Treat others as you would like them to treat you. And don't take life too seriously - it'll only get you down.
77. How long does it take you to get ready to go out? - half an hour
78. Do you shower daily? - Yep.
79. What one thing would you change in your life if you had the power to do so? - Would love to have a bit more money.
80. Describe the ideal superpower and what you would do if you had it. - travel long distances really fast. I could get home for dinner.
81. Are candles romantic or a fire hazard? - Romantic
82. Name something you've done in the last 24 hours, no matter how big or small. - played scrabble
83. Do you wear necklaces/bracelets/anklets/earrings/rings? - Yes
84. What colors are you wearing right now? - Blue PJ bottoms and a black hoodie
85. How often do you change the sheets on your bed? - About once a fortnight
86. Have you ever gotten lost? If so, explain? - I get lost almost daily. How long you got? Actually worst was when I was fifteen and got lost in the Scottish wilderness for about four hours!
87. What's on your computer desk? - Desk? It's a laptop. On my lap.
88. How many folders are on your desktop at the present moment? - really dunno and can't be bothered to look.
89. When you're talking do you ever use your hands in the air to do quotation marks of certain words? - I wave my hands a bit, but don't do air quotes.
90. Which landmark would you climb if you could? - Machu peechu (though I can't spell it!)
91. Do you own or have you read or thought of reading any self help books. - Yes, I think so.
92. Ever seriously questioned your sanity? - Yes, daily. It's okay I think sane people are boring.
93. Can you break-dance? - Definitely not.
94. What's in your fridge right now? - Cabbage, and other veggies. Ham, bacon and cottage cheese.
95. How many people do you live with? - One, Taka.
96. Have you or would you ever do anything more than kiss in a public area? - Maybe....
97. What is the strangest thing you've ever done? - Um, does Taka count? He's pretty strange
98. Name an instrument you've never played but would like to. - the harp
99. Have you ever been on TV or the radio? - yes a couple of times
100. What is the worst thing anyone could ever do to you? -
101. Are you a fast typer? - yep, pretty fast.
102. How high have you counted before getting bored? - 10...I have a short attention span.
103. Describe how you sleep. - In bed with Taka and pink panther.
104. Are you straight/bi/gay? - Straight
105. Do you ever do something else while on the computer? If so, what? - Watch movies, chat, play games, tickle Taka.
106. What is the most expensive item you own? - our car
107. How about the least expensive? - dunno,a 100 yen pen or something
108. What's your favorite card game to play? - racing diamonds
109. What do you do online? - write, shop, talk to friends and family
110. Name some stores you've bought clothes in before? - Next
111. Have you ever read a book and not understood it? If so, which one? - No, but I'd just get bored and quit if I didn't get it.
112. Have you ever watched a movie and not understood it? If so, which one? - Oh yes. Yesterday, it was called Palendromes. Weird, weird stuff.
113. Do you think people pick up your slang language more than you pick up theirs? No
114. Are you easily influences by other people or current trends? - Yes people. No, trends.
115. What makes you unique (in your own opinion)? - The ability to cheer people up and make them laugh.
116. Name your worst quality. - indecisiveness. I hate it.
117. Name your best. - sense of humour
118. What would you like to do with your life? - I would like to be a published author.
119. Do you blow-dry your hair? - yep
120. How many clocks are in your house? - none
121. Are they all set at the same time? -
122. Have you ever intentionally set a clock ahead or behind the correct time? - No
123. What do you think about when you first wake up in the morning? - Going to the toilet
124. Which browser do you use? - Internet Explorer
125. Do you bite your nails? - NO
126. Would you ever leave little notes to your gf/bf? - yes, I do often.
127. Ever been to a farm? - yes. My fmaily has a farm
128. Tell me about your dream last night. - don't remember
129. Ever seen a shooting star? - yes, many
130. Say one thing about yourself you've never told anyone. - I often feel anxious for no reason at all. Especially if I am hungover.
131. Do your days fly by or seem to last forever? - fly by
132. Have you ever stayed in a fancy, high class, rich hotel? - unfortunately, no
133. Have you ever stayed in a rent-by-the-hour motel? - NO!
134. What, in your opinion, is the best advertising slogan out there? - A Mars a day helps you work rest and play.
135. When they start sending rockets to the moon for us civillians will you be on the list to go? - No, sounds scary.
136. How are you feeling right now? - A little hungover and like I am getting a cold.
137. Have you ever written anything on your skin? - yes frequently.
138. If so what? - feed cat, buy shampoo. You know.. reminders and stuff.
139. Which website do you frequent most often? - hotmail and facebook.
140. What color is most of your clothes? - different colours.
141. Do you own any plants? - We have our own wee jungle on the balcony - hibiscus, rose and a big rubber plant.
142. Are things as bad as they seem? - Na never. Have a drink and call a friend.
143. Describe the nicest thing anyone has ever done for you. - my parents are organising and peying for my wedding which is pretty nice I think.
144. Have you ever looked directly at the sun? - Yes
145. Have you ever made a pin hole camera to watch the eclipse? - No
146. What's your favorite cereal? - rice crispies
147. What do you miss? - Family, friends, access to hp sauce and decent deodorant and toothpaste. Being able to read signs and sort things out without needing help.
148. Name something you just cannot forget, no matter how hard you try- adverts from years and years ago.
'He said, you can make brown. I said, who? He said, you. I said, me? He said, yes. I said, oh. He , said will you make brown? I said, who? He said, you. I said me? He said, yes. I said, no.'
And all the words to the milky way red car and blue car adverts.
Useless I know.
149. Describe the worst fight you've ever been in whether physical or verbal. - Don't really fight much.
150. Say something else about yourself you've never told anyone before. - Something else? Ok, I'm scared of things that jump or move too much, or make a loud noise.
Phewww! The end. Actually it's all about me so it probably is weird and wonderful, and I'm in Japan so it does kind of fit ;p
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Cherry Blossom
Yesterday, my fiance and I went to a park to see the cherry blossom. There were a lot of people there as you'd expect for one of the last days of hanami (cherry blossom blooming parties). We saw a dog soccer team, had our photo taken with a 15 kg giant daikon radish, got lost in a maze (which is not too surprising for two directionally disadvantaged individuals), drank frothy green tea whilst having our photos taken 400 times, burnt off 500 g on an adventure playground, and then put a lock with our names on it onto a fence for good luck.
It was fun....weird...but fun.
It was fun....weird...but fun.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
National emergency or ramen? Who can tell?
Something I've always found quite strange in Japan is the vans that drive around with loud speakers yelling stuff at you.
The first time I ever heard it was not long after I arrived in the country. I was so freaked out. I leapt out of bed convinced that it was telling me there was about to be a typhoon or bomb or something and that I was meant to go to some place of safety. I stood out on the balcony waiting to see the hoards of people leaving their houses so I could follow them to the safe place, but no one seemed to be paying it any attention. People on the street just seemed to carry on walking or cycling and going about their daily business rather than rushing around in panic. I gradually realised there couldn't possibly be a national emergency or these people would look more worried about it. Later I asked a Japanese person who sold - 'Oh, they were probably just selling potatoes or something.'
Yes, the Japanese drive around in vans with loud speakers and sometimes music selling things to people. In fact there is a very catchy ramen tune that sticks in your head after you've heard it blared out on your street. And as for election time, at election time there are so many vans driving around waving flags and yelling at you that you actually start to get used to it.
The first time I ever heard it was not long after I arrived in the country. I was so freaked out. I leapt out of bed convinced that it was telling me there was about to be a typhoon or bomb or something and that I was meant to go to some place of safety. I stood out on the balcony waiting to see the hoards of people leaving their houses so I could follow them to the safe place, but no one seemed to be paying it any attention. People on the street just seemed to carry on walking or cycling and going about their daily business rather than rushing around in panic. I gradually realised there couldn't possibly be a national emergency or these people would look more worried about it. Later I asked a Japanese person who sold - 'Oh, they were probably just selling potatoes or something.'
Yes, the Japanese drive around in vans with loud speakers and sometimes music selling things to people. In fact there is a very catchy ramen tune that sticks in your head after you've heard it blared out on your street. And as for election time, at election time there are so many vans driving around waving flags and yelling at you that you actually start to get used to it.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
I wonder if the Japanese actually like their children?
Okay, okay. I know the Japanese do actually like their children. It's just sometimes when I'm driving around and I see the kids using the car like a play park or climbiing frame - I kind of wonder. If the car had to stop suddenly the kid would shoot right through the windscreen and end up splattered on the road.
The other day I even saw a child do a handstand and kick his mother, who happened to be driving at the time, in the head. Then there was one of my fiance's friends who had their two year old child sitting in the footwell of the passenger seat. I really wish the Japanese government would do a campaign on it. I mean no one wants to see children splattered on the road/
The other day I even saw a child do a handstand and kick his mother, who happened to be driving at the time, in the head. Then there was one of my fiance's friends who had their two year old child sitting in the footwell of the passenger seat. I really wish the Japanese government would do a campaign on it. I mean no one wants to see children splattered on the road/
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
No diving in the bathtub
Yesterday, a friend of mine emailed me a picture from a hotel in Hikone. It was a sign attached to a bathtub saying 'No diving'. Hmm, as if diving in the three foot bathtub was a common problem.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
Weird little fish
The other day my friend, who's working down in Okinawa, told me about some weird little fish. They'd gone to the beach and because the weather was a bit crappy they ended up going to a spa. At the spa they had a bucket filled with little fish. You were supposed to put your feet into the bucket, and the little fish would eat off the dead skin. She said the fish tickled her feet so much she coudn't stop giggling and the other people looked at her as if she was crazy. Hmmmm, I wonder if bizarre, little, skin-eating fish would take off anywhere else in the world?
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Funny t-shirts
I've devoloped a weird habit in Japan - reading t-shirts. You can find the funniest things on t-shirts in Japan. Actually it's not just t-shirts - bags, pencil cases, sweatshirts, even things like tissue boxes all have the oddest English you've ever seen on them. Take yesterday for instance, my friend emailed me and told me about a t-shirt she'd seen on one of her student's mothers.
It said 'daddy was a street corner' - I mean, what's that all about? Unfortunately, she couldn't get a photo cos' taking photos of your student's mothers chests is not really allowed.
Sometimes you can't argue with the philosophy though. This is one of my favourites!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Why weird? Why wonderful?
So, why weird? Why wonderful? Well I reckon that Japan is a country that you can see something weird or wonderful every day. Not everyone will agree with me, but I find that I'm constantly sent into fits of baffled laughter by the bizarre things I see around me. I mean seriously let me give you a couple of examples.
Last year a friend and I were visiting Tokyo, and while walking down a street, a couple in front of us stopped and swapped shoes. The man put on his girlfriend's evidently uncomfortable high heels and she put on his comfy sneakers and then they carried on walking down the street. Wow, it's got to be the ultimate in gentlemanly behaviour, may slightly ruin the masculinity of your boyfirend though! And could you seriously ever imagine it happening anywhere else in the world?
And then there was the little shop we came accross selling clothes for dogs. And I don't mean just little raincoats or sweaters to keep your little pooch dry and warm. I mean jeans, sneakers, denim skirts, hoodies, t-shirts, hats and, of course costumes so you can dress them up for those fancy dress occasions. My favourite were the Pooh Bear or little animal costumes that mean if you're a little bored of your pooch being a pooch you could turn it into someting else - a bee or a dinosaur perhaps.
And that's just the tip of the iceberg. Japan is full of the unique, the strange and the just plain bizarre. I mean in a country where a boyfriend will swap shoes with his girlfriend, and you can buy a Superman costume for your dog life will never be boring again!
Monday, March 17, 2008
So Japan, huh? How'd that happen?
A couple of years ago I decided I was getting a bit too comfortable with my life in New Zealand, so I packed in my job, jumped on a plane and headed off to teach English in Japan. Yeah, it was going to be just for a year, and yeah here I am two years later settling into my new apartment with my Japanese fiance, but hey things happen. Life changes. I'm still teaching English to kids, which I love. And I use my spare time to write children's stories and poems that one day I'd love to have published. One day we'll probably move back to New Zealand, but for now I'm enjoying living in the weird and wonderful world of Japan.
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