Enoshima Island

 I went to Enoshima Island, Kanagawa near Katasegawa bay, two days after visiting Oyama-san. I bought a round trip ticket from Shinjuku station. The travel agent, did not give me a good deal. He thought, I could save money just buying a round-trip, instead of a Kamakura-Enoshima day pass. In fact, it would be cheaper to buy the pass, since it gives you access to all the sights which anyone who visits the area would naturally want to see and have to pay for individually without the pass. Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I wish Akiko and I could visit such a place together.

 There is a lighthouse tower on the island. I bought a ticket, and went to the top. There was a good opportunity to take some photos from the high position. It was a beautiful day. Again, I owe my gratitude to Akiko's Sensei, for recommending the location. According to Sensei, the pair, Enoshima and Oyama, are connected in spirit and energy. For a long time, people have traveled from Oyama-san, to the caves at Enoshima. They are believed to be connected as yin and yang. Oyama being Yin, Enoshima Yang. Power-spots are common across Japan. This is a wonderful land, and a wonderful way to observe the power of our home world. Japanese heritage and religion is enriched by a deep sense of respect and appreciation for the land in which they have lived for many ages.

 Fuji-san

The Enoshima Iwaya Caves, Connected by a walking path.

Many people were on the Island that day. Here are some, fishing and playing, with Fuji-san across the bay.

Farewell - Last Day in Brisbane

"Last day in Brisbane, for at least the next year. I expect that I will be away much longer than that. Sitting on a comfy padded seat at a table in the domestic terminal Brisbane. I thought there would be a wireless signal and that I might upload a post to my blog. There isn't.

The flight to Cairns leaves in one hour, we'll probably start boarding soon. After a three hour layover in Cairns I'll be boarding another flight to Narita, Tokyo Japan. With a one year student visa I'll enter Japan. I'll be living together with Aco, a moment I have been dreaming of for over two years. Now, after some hard work and patience I am able to. The feeling is mixed. Just having said farewell, and “see you again soon”to Mum at a coffee stand in the check in lobby. I feel good this time. Sad, but not to the point of tears as I feel that I will see her again soon, and things will be good. I only wish that she will not feel to hurt in parting with me, as we have done many times before. She assured me that this time she feels glad. Glad that I secured a permission to travel for one year. Meaning my application for an Australian resident visa wont be cancelled upon leaving the country and if worst comes to worst I can come back to Australia. Hopefully she can feel also glad about her son following his heart, as anyone should when the time is right. I look forward to our meeting again soon, in Japan."

I had written this while waiting to board my plane. That was around two weeks ago now. Now I have a moment to post it.

Mount Oyama, Kanagawa.

 Photos taken during my adventure climbing up Mount Oyama in Kanagawa. From waiting at a bus stop below Oyama-san, to reaching the top, and Shoujin Ryoori nourishment when I reached the bottom four hours later.

Oyama Cable Car takes people up the the hiking path.

Many Trees, and steps on the way up. I feel appreciation for the natural ancient mountain environment.

 Beautiful Yellow Leaves above.

I could see Fuji-san. Who's summit was covered in clouds.

 At the Top.

 Tofu-Ryoori, Shoujin-Ryoori. My favorite cuisine.

The day that I climbed up the mountain, I didn't eat anything until I returned at the bottom of the mountain. It was 17:00, I felt refreshed, and appreciation for this day, this place, and for the fine delicious considerate cuisine of Japan. Shoujin-Ryoori, Buddhist cuisine.

Sakura Hotel Jimbocho Tokyo, Checking out.

I have spent four nights at Sakura Hotel in Jimbocho, Tokyo.
It's a decent place for younger guests. People who are used to a backpackers environment, with a touch of care that you don't often find in other such accommodations. The prices are reasonable for shared rooms. All amenities are basic and shared, but kept very clean.
There is a small cafe downstairs that is part of the hotel, with a big TV, where you can have a filtered coffee, snacks, small meals, a bottle of beer etc... The staff are quiet, but are responsive when spoken to.
The location is good, but may be hard to find at first. Just a few minutes from Jimbocho subway station exit A1.
From Shinjuku take the Toei Shinjuku subway line, get off at Jimbocho. Then, From the 'A1' exit, turn left once on the street level, then make another left at the traffic light. Walk down 3 streets, look left, you should see the sign on the left side of the side street.

I finally initiated a conversation with one of the male staff, who might have been 25-27 years old. I had bought something from Tokyu Hands a few day before, and it seemed to be broken. The manual was in Japanese. I thought it might need batteries, but there wasn't any diagram on the manual showing batteries, and I don't have a screw driver to open it and check.
I brought the manual down, and asked him, "Can you help me? I bought this a few days ago, does this manual say I should open it with a driver and put batteries in?" He helped without hesitation, and this opened a window for our communication. I find most Japanese are very reserved, which is lovely. Sometimes it might just take something silly like this to open up communication.
Certainly if you need help, Japanese people are quick to help, if you ask, and if they have the ability to solve your problem. I really appreciate the social attitude of Japanese people, so gentle, yet full of energy.

There was a bit of an awkward moment when I was trying to find the Hotel on the first day. I went in the wrong direction, 6 or 7 blocks. Then again went to far the other way. I stopped at a map, which are scattered around the city blocks, usually by a train or subway station. A lady was also looking at the map, and once she saw that I was looking hard at the map, she asked, "can I help you?"
This was forward in Japanese standards, I was surprised. She seemed to be a very nice, but a bit foolish character. Never-the-less she was genuine, and offered her assistance kindly. As it turned out, she was also lost. Which made me wonder, "why are you helping me if you are also lost?" Anyway she insisted on helping me, I could sense I wasn't going to get away from her until she helped me find my hotel. We went this way and that, she asked people... took me the wrong way a few times, and called out in embarrassment "aahh! gomennasai!" and some other things I couldn't understand. I was embarrassed, she was making quite a scene :) haha. I just wanted to get away and find it myself.
After she got up from bending down and calling out in shame, she popped up and noticed the street sign nearby, it was the road that I was looking for. But, for some reason she wanted to take me across the street and down the other direction... I had to insist "だいじょうぶです、だいじょうぶです。” It's ok, it's ok, really it's ok. Pointing down the road, to gesture that I am going this way wether she liked it or not. Finally she let me go on my way.
In the end, I was glad, she was kind. Japanese people will surprise you if you have the guts to venture out, talk to someone, ask for help, or become a patron in their shop. They are very kind and considerate.

a night at Starbucks in Jimbocho.

It's cold tonight. I just bought some lip balm, a necessity for my wind blasted drying lips. I think the four hour walk up and down Mount Oyama plus today's chilly wind has taken it's toll. Moisture is needed.

I'm sitting in a Starbucks having a nice warm Soy Latte. That's right a latte, with soy milk. I wouldn't ever have coffee with soy milk back in Australia, or anywhere else mind you. But, since soy is the staple food of Japan, I figured I would try how Japanese soy milk suits coffee. Actually, a Soy Latte at Starbucks in Japan, is second on the menu right under a normal Latte. It thought there must be a reason to have it so visible on the menu. Unlike back home, where soy milk is written in small font, in the optional add-ons section way down at the bottom.

Much to my surprise it actually tastes really good. I am converted. No more heavy milk coffees for me. I'd rather not drink milk at all. It often puts me to sleep, something to do with it being a food for baby cows and not adult humans perhaps. Coffee, which is supposed to be invigorating, mixed with sleepy cow's milk. I'm confused enough as it is, the milk coffee oxymoron might just be the reason why. Not seriously, but maybe.

I am planning a trip tonight, for tomorrow. Although, I'm not sure how I will fare, since my legs are very sore from so much walking, and the hike up a mountain. Not my everyday past-time, but could become one now that I am in Japan. Much appreciation and love for mountains. I'll take a day on a mountain before a day burning on the beach any day.

Adam In Japan!

I have finally arrived in Tokyo, Japan. Spent the first night with Aco, before she started her seminar. I am now staying in Sakura Hotel in Shinjuku near the Jimbouchou station. This is my second full day in Japan since arriving on Wednesday. I am having a great time. I really enjoy being here. Although, last night I attended a 忘年会 bounenkai, year-end party with Aco, her Sensei, and eight of her students. I was quite uncomfortable to be honest, since I couldnt express anything in Japanese, and only one of the students speaks English. I wish I could have held an adult conversation with at least one of them, it was stifling. Sensei is generous, and I do appreciate his effort to include me in the group.
Besides that one moment, I have been feeling good! It was so great to be with Aco again after one year! She is even cuter than I remember xx

Today I visited Mount Oyama in Kanagawa. It was a great day. If it weren't for Aco, mountains and forests alone would be number #1 on my list for reasons why I want to be in and enjoy Japan. I'll write about that and post some photos after I upload and organize the photos from today.

Mt.Fuji

I was on my way to Kobe in Shinkansen Train.

It was quite nice weather compared to a day ago.
I was luckly to see a beautiful mountain!

I could take photos with my mobile.

they are not really nice ones though.

Birthday Presents!!!

Lapita is looking at Teddy's warm, fluffy gift  :)

Even though Adam was busy at work, he baked many biscuits and sent them as soon he came back from work.

And I was lucky that I could have two different BDay presents on the same day! yay!

Thank you Adam, They make me happy, I really appreciate this.

I enjoyed his presents, one being the biscuits he baked and the other is moccasins which are made in Australia and are very warm shoes.

I'm wearing them everyday, they keep my feet warm always, just as Teddy's heart always feels warm to me.

Also his handmade biscuits are making me smile every time I eat them.

I can taste the love he put into these biscuits !!! gentle sweetness, nice cute shape.

They make my heart and feet warm!

Tonight's DInner - New Zealand Green Muscles in Italian Red Sauce Broth

This dish is typically cooked with non-green muscles and served as an Entree in Italian Restaurants. I used to enjoy this dish with my Father at a local Italian restaurant, George Martins, in Long Island New York. A dimly lit, dining room, and bar, under the train line at Rockville Centre. The tables, set with disposable paper cut fresh from a roll for instant setting, would shake subtly with the passing trains. The feeling was very New York, it was comfortable, and the food spoke for itself. Many restaurants these days are designed to give an appearance of professionalism or class, the food sometimes over-priced, and under-seasoned.
Personally I prefer dining rooms that seem to have always existed where they are, serving the same old good food for what might have been centuries. I find it hard to enjoy food in fancy settings, where comfort is overlooked in the desperate attempt to look good. When I eat, I not only want to eat nice food, I want to feel good. Nothing is better then finding a place to eat, relax, and enjoy comfortable atmosphere.

Usually, when I post whatever I have cooked for dinner, I simply write what it was and give some general information such as what, when, where and why. I'm pretty sure I have never included the "how." Tonight I thought, just in case someone is actually interested in a recipe, I will include the how.

1/2 Kilo Green Muscles
1 whole Carrot (finely chopped) I used carrot because I hadn't any onion.
6 cloves fresh Garlic (smashed)
1 red Chili (optional, any form of chili depending on how much spice you can handle)
Char'Grilled or Roasted Red and Yellow Capsicums (roughly chopped)
2 Tbsp Kalamata Olive Balsamic Vinegar or Red Wine or both!
1 leaf fresh Basil (torn)
1 medium sized can peeled Tomatoes (roughly 800gm)
1/2 cup water or unsalted Vegetable stock.
Sea Salt Flakes
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Butter (optional)

Gently fry the carrots in a sauce pan (I use a combination of butter and oil for a richer taste) until carrots soften. Add 3/4 of the smashed Garlic (smashed or crushed garlic gives a better flavour than slicing or chopping) and chili, fry for one minute. Add capsicum, increase heat and add vinegar or wine, allow the alcohol to cook off and to reduce the liquid while stirring. Add Tomatoes, basil, 1/2 cup water or stock, generous pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and bring to a boil. Now reduce heat and simmer. Cover the pan and allow the sauce to simmer for 30 minutes. For a thick sauce remove lid and allow additional 30 minutes simmer. If a thin broth is desired, keep covered while simmering for the additional 30 minutes. De-beard the Muscles while simmering the sauce. When the sauce has thickened to desired thickness, or after a decent length simmer (always simmer Italian Red sauces for at least one hour, a longer simmer = more sweetness and a more developed taste, I usually give my sauce a good 3 hours simmer), add the remaining garlic and prepared muscles, replace lid and turn heat to high. This will cook and steam the muscles. Muscles will open when cooked. Stir once or twice, adding more salt if needed. Serve with fresh Italian bread.

Japanese Student Visa Granted

Today I received an email from Hiroo Japanese Language School, Tokyo.
Mr. Watanabe, the director of the school, informed me that my Student Visa was granted.
Quite good news! Now I can be sure that in one month I will be able to go to Japan.
I will be with Aco in one month!
My flight is booked for December 14th.
I'll start the Japanese beginner's language course on January 11th 2012. The course is one year in length, one class per day, five days a week, with two weeks off during the year.

I will start to pack next week :)

Apple Pie & Breads

Here are some photos of and Apple Pie and Breads which I baked at work.

I was proud of the Apple Pie, I can admit with confidence that I considered it to be the best dessert I had ever made at work. The soft, crumbly, short crust pastry, and the warm, gooey, cinnamon rich apple in the centre... delicious. Pies are simple, and anyone can make them, and they are one of my favourite desserts.

２周年 記念日！Our 2 year Anniversary

On 23rd September, we had our two year  Anniversary.
I can feel the time passed quickly, although it was not that recent that we became a couple.

It's amazing that I met Adam, since we live in different coutries.
and we are still continuing a good relationship, with distance.

when I look back over the past two years, I know I was happy to be with him even though
we had a big crisis in Japan.

In 2 years there have been many crises in my personal life as well, it started with a tax investigation, then big earth quakes, then Fukushima nuclear plants explosion and melt-down, then I had some trouble with my work.

I'm greatful to Adam for being good to me, supporting me from Australia.
He called me sometimes and encouraged me, that helped me alot.

ありがとう　Adam XX

I really hope we can be even more happy after he will be in Japan.
And hope we wont give up even though we might have challenges in the future life.
I'm sure we can find much happiness that makes a big happiness in the end!

これからも　よろしくおねがいします。

Two Year Anniversary

Akiko and I have had our two year anniversary!
It has been over one month since that day, now finding time to write. I can sometimes be a lazy blogger at times.

I am fortunate to have Akiko in my life. Two years have passed quickly and with many fond memories. I feel more comfort, warmth, and growth since she came into my life, and for this I am grateful!

At this moment, I am awaiting confirmation of a student visa, so I may study Japanese language in Tokyo, and start the next stage in my life, with Akiko by my side.
When I receive confirmation, I will write again. Fingers crossed!

Food Matters. Bread and Sweets @ EQ5 Camp

I am now working at a new camp, EQ5. Fortunately, the daily routine at EQ5 is very easy going. We have two chefs (including myself) servicing a 12 hour camp. One chef to prepare lunch and breakfast, and  one other for preparing dinner... that's all. Normally I would have to prepare dinner, evening meals, midnight meals, and morning meals in one 12 hour shift. Now, I only have to prepare dinner. I am grateful to have a chance to work here, I can spend more time preparing, baking, and I have time to sit down and eat.

I wanted to post some photos for my dear Akiko.

I hope you can enjoy them Aco xX.

This year has been difficult for Aco, living in Tokyo. I know she is missing the usual food delights which she used to enjoy before the crisis in Japan. Now she has to be very careful where she buys food, because many food goods in Tokyo are from areas affected by the on-going radiation.
I feel sorry for this.
Recently she was telling me about the stress and worries that linger since the crisis. I could sense that she was thinking a lot, I wanted to help her let it go, to feel better.
But it didn't help her. I think she was even more frustrated when I tried to give some advice. I am truly sorry for not being able to help her feel better. As time goes by, we learn more about each other, especially since the crisis. Such danger and stress can change people, we are forced to see things differently.
I am learning just how deep Aco's frustration and worries have been embedded in her day-to-day life. Even the small things, which she used to enjoy in Tokyo, have been taken from her. While she tells me more about her feelings, as time goes by, I am learning how to deal with it also. Sometimes, it's better to listen, even when she is dwelling on some pain or worries. My instinct, to help her see in a more positive way, sometimes doesn't help. We need time to heal and learn to live in a changing world. We also need to learn to protect ourselves.
There are many things that we can not control in life. Sometimes the way to survive is to find what is useful, and leave that which keeps us down behind us. We need clean food, water, and we need a healthy mind to support us. I pray for some relief, for Aco needs and deserves some space to enjoy living without feeling the threat of harm.

I think she is doing well. I know she researches where she can buy food that is safe. She is always careful, and I am glad. I would be heartbroken if she became ill from eating contaminated food each day.
This December, I will be moving to Japan. I look forward to helping carry some of the burden of life in Tokyo, to help her as much as I can. For example, to carry heavy shopping bags, or to cook for us, so Aco can concentrate on work and have time to relax.

You are doing well Aco, and I am proud that you are making effort to stay safe and healthy in Tokyo. がんばってください。

North Stradbroke Island

 Stopping for Coffee and Damper (ozi bread) with Jam :)

 It was a nice day for everyone I think. The sun was quite warm, but fortunately there was a breeze to keep us cool.

 Point Lookout.

 We were fortunate to see many dolphins at Point Lookout. There were many groups of Dolphins swimming near the coast. Together, they would wait around for an approaching wave, and then take off suddenly swimming in the wave and jumping in unison. It was amazing to watch them play together, like a group of friends enjoying a sunny day in the ocean.

We also saw a koala sleeping in a tree. He or She was quite low in the tree, so I could get a semi-decent photograph. He looked relaxed, peaceful.

It was a nice day and easy-going tour of Stradbroke Island. Thanks to my Mother and Roger.