Infection Control

I suddenly feel the urge to clean something...

...Fun with CaviWipes. YAY!!! Choice of champions. The one and only. Ain't no germ gonna get by this sucker. Whaddya say, hmm? Wait. I really should have posted a pic of--DispatchWipes. Now, those are the bomb. They'll def kill what ails ya. Yeah, you can also make fun designs on your clothing with those if you don't watch out. Aw crap. Wish I had a pic of those instead...

*sigh* great googly-moogly...would somebody go feed my fish?

"Few tasks are more like the torture of Sisyphus than housework, with its endless repetition: the clean becomes soiled, the soiled is made clean, over and over, day after day."

~Simone de Beauvoir

...nuff said.

This entry dedicated to those that clean with a vengeance--nah, really dedicated to those who bitch and moan that they get watched by the clean police. Heh-heh. Go wash yer hands.

Elvis

This is Elvis, a Bactrian camel. He lives at the zoo. I took this picture on an incredibly freezing day when there were were only a handful of visitors I encountered on my walk. Actually, I bypassed this exhibit because there was some strange perv-looking guy leaning on the fence watching me as I passed by. When the man left, out of my peripheral vision, I could see the camel watching me as if to say, "Hey, quit looking at those stupid zebras. Come over and take my picture." So I did.

"Do not free the camel of the burden of his hump; you may be freeing him from being a camel." ~ Gilbert K. Chesterton

To which his response was to perform this odd pose captured in the photo below...I hope it wasn't some nasty mating pose or something!

This entry is in memory of my mother who died six months ago. In her pre-cancer days, her walking group would meet and walk around the zoo. I remember her telling me the story about when she learned of Elvis' name. Almost like a child recounting a school field trip to the zoo. After that day, she would go say hi to him whenever she was at the zoo. In fact, she would ask me if I saw Elvis whenever I would tell her that I went to the zoo...and since nobody else was around when I took this picture, I did say hi to him.

Still Winter

Sheesh, got a reminder from Alessia that I haven't posted. Got a reminder from Mr. Wind when I stepped outside this morning that it is still winter. Holy bejeezus it was pretty cold. Thee was a dusting of snow on the ground, but by noon it had disappeared and the sun was out. I bundled up and ventured outside for a walk to one of my favorite spots.

"There is a privacy about it which no other season gives you...In spring, summer, and fall people sort of have an open season on each other; only in the winter, in the country, can you have longer, quiet stretches when you can savor belonging to yourself."

~Ruth Stout

TMI

Okay, so here's a funny comment/conversation for which I don't have an appropriate picture. I'm working the other day, when a coworker comes up to me. She says to me, "Hey--you know I got to work early this morning at 6:00. I went to use the bathroom, and fell asleep on the toilet. I woke up 45 minutes later! I had even gone to the bathroom and all. I think I need to talk to my doctor about sleep apnea." Mind you, the only interaction we have is in the work environment and she doesn't even work in my office.

Okay, so I thought it was only okay to talk about bathroom things with people after you had gone on vacation with them and shared a room in a hotel. You know, there isn't a lot you can hide from someone once you sleep in the same room. I was a bit shocked by this random interaction at work and all I could do was laugh. What's up with the TMI these days?

Four-Legged Friends

Alessia, you might want to go play with the fish and bypass reading this post. In fact, I'm 100% positive you won't want to read this one. Actually, this isn't a post for those who hate dogs. Or touchy-feely stuff.

It's winter, the weather is crappy, and I have zero inspiration to take any pictures whatsoever. So, I decided to post some pics of my favorite four-legged friends (to add to the randomness of my entry topics).

"One thing I will never be in my life is one of those stereotypical crazy old cat ladies. Cats--ick." Hah, I just quoted myself.

I'm a dog person. Love them. When I think about it, it's probably because of the unconditional love they provide. I remember the dog I had when I was a child would always be there whenever I got hurt, licking the tears as they would run down my face. The dog I have now greets me in the morning when I wake up and when I come home from work. Dogs don't care what you wear, how much weight you've gained, or how much money you don't have. You give them a place to live, feed them, and take care of them. In return, they give you something you can't put a price on--unconditional love.

"We long for an affection altogether ignorant of our faults. Heaven has accorded this to us in the uncritical canine attachment."

~George Eliot

"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive."

~Gilda Radner

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole."

~Roger Caras

"Happiness is a warm puppy."

~Charles M. Schulz

This post is dedicated to Bridgy. She lost her life at a young age, but she touched my heart at a time when things were really rough for me. For this I am grateful. I miss her, but every time I think of her, it brings a smile to my heart.

"What we have once enjoyed

we can never lose;

All that we love deeply,

becomes a part of us."

~Hellen Keller

Michael C. Hall of 'Dexter' recovering from cancer

A friend of mine posted this on her fb wall. Just thought I'd share this because of my post a couple of days ago. One of my favorite shows - Dexter...see, cancer doesn't discriminate. Dexter fans click on purple link and read. Good thoughts going out to Michael C. Hall and all his family and friends.

Michael C. Hall of 'Dexter' recovering from cancer

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Horoscope

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

★★★★★When you sweep away the layers and layers of issues, clearly someone really does care. You might ask yourself if it is worth all the ups and downs to live in this bond.

Tonight: Say "yes" to living.

Gemini

It's a funny day--everything is wrapped up in layers of confusion early on, but you reach an epiphany or two this afternoon that sets it all in order and points you in a new direction.

Gemini

Your unique take on events makes people laugh. A wicked sense of humor is extremely sexy -- and you'll find that someone very intriguing has noticed yours. You're hilarious without even trying.

Gemini Work Horoscope

A reorg or simple rearrangement will have unintended consequences and might result in a radically different work arrangement for you. Try to make the best of it if you're faced with this situation -- it will get better over time.

Horoscopes...what to believe, what to believe. Often fun to read, sometimes they bring some clarity to the bittersweet truth of life...or do we just read something into them that truly does not exist? They are often quite generic, but sometimes hit on the edge of something we might be experiencing.

If I squinted a bit, I could tell you that I can identify with each horoscope that I have posted above. For example, the work horoscope -- yes, a reorg has occurred, last month and we're still in the midst of chaos, but I'm hoping over time it will get better.

For the most part, I just read them for the pure entertainment aspect.

BTW, I do say "yes" to living. Regardless of whatever is going on around me, I'm beginning to be comfortable with uncertainty. Life is good.

"So long as the memory of certain beloved friends lives in my heart, I shall say that life is good."

~Hellen Keller

The "C" Word

Cancer sucks.

Today's post out to all of the people I know who are affected by cancer. Not only the individuals who are fighting the battle, but the ones who are supporting these people, as well. It takes a lot of strength to deal with cancer--mental and physical. Makes you realize what is important. Sometimes I wish all people would realize what is important and to quit wasting energy on things that are just that--a waste of energy. Scratch that--most of the time I wish people would do this.

...I must be getting old. Seems as if everywhere I turn, someone I know has cancer. I used to think it was an old person's disease. Actually, I think cancer is just not as selective as it used to be. With all the toxins in/of the environment, food additives/preservatives, viruses, genetics, age, etc. anybody at any age is prone to get it.

So right now, I'm just going to post one of my favorite pics from last year and spend a little while thinking good things about my friends and wishing the best for all of them.

Bill Hemmer: "You said cancer changes your life, and oftentimes for the better."
Joel Siegel: "Yes.... Gilda Radner... said this in her book. What cancer does is, it forces you to focus, to prioritize, and you learn what's important. I mean, I don't sweat the small stuff. I used to get angry at cab drivers. It's not worth it.... And when somebody says you have cancer, you realize it's all small stuff. And what Gilda said is, if it weren't for the downside, everyone would want to have it. But there is a downside."
~American Morning, CNN, 13 June 2003

π

π = 3.14159265358973...

Brings back memories. When I was in 8th grade, whenever the students in his class would get into trouble, my algebra trig teacher would make us stand at the doorway facing the classroom and recite pi. I never got into trouble, but would always study the numbers that were posted above the doorway, just in case.

I did get after school detention one time in 8th grade. Funniest sight you'd ever see. I was the only Japanese kid in a classroom full of black students. And let me tell you, they were all habitual offenders. I was damn scared. But then the cat daddy supervisor of detention strutted into the classroom and managed to get all of the kids to shut up and pay attention. Then, he proceeded to tell us that detention that day would consist of him telling us a story. I don't remember the story, but I remember that it was something comical and it sure wasn't punishment. No wonder those kids didn't mind getting detention! And this kid never set foot in detention ever again.

Anyway, tonight π stands for good pizza. And even left overs! The company was good. Always good to meet friends for dinner and catch up.

"How can one make friends without exquisite dishes! It is mainly through the table that one governs!"

~ Jean-Jacques Regis de Chambaceres, French politician (1713-1824)

The Power Of Silent Conversation

I met a friend for coffee this morning. It's one of my favorite things to do. Catching up over a cup of coffee, tea, or whatever else I desire. It can be so relaxing from the stress of the work week.

Sometimes during conversations between individuals there is a pause in the talking. Some people react to this by struggling to say something to break the silence. This silence is sometimes referred to as an awkward pause. Personally, I am comfortable with the silence--just sitting and watching the person or persons. Silent observation. Taking in everything they have to offer. It helps me get a better sense of who they are.

The friend I met this morning once told me he would get nervous and used feel as if he had to say something to fill those awkward pauses. One day he asked me why I would just sit and look at him when the conversation would get quiet. I shared with him the link at the bottom of the page. It's a blog post written about the role of silence in interactions and pretty much explains what I get out of silent conversation. He understands now that the pauses are not from lack of stuff to talk about.

Click the blue link below:

The Power Of Silent Conversation

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Paper Heart

Upon the recommendation of a friend, I rented the movie Paper Heart. It is a quasi documentary in which a young woman (Charlyne Yi) travels the country to find out if real love exists. The awkwardness of the main character is what held my attention throughout the movie. The interviews with the people she encounters offer an insight into individuals' ideas about love...

...wait, I'm not a movie reviewer. I definitely hate reading/hearing other people's review of movies before I see them. That way, I have no expectations. Nothing to taint my mind. I dunno, I would definitely recommend the special features found on the DVD. They were quite hilarious from the songs to the deleted scenes.

I could go on and on about my experiences with lust, love, and heartbreak, but I don't want to bore you with my drama. One thing that has never changed is that my unwillingness to "just settle" precedes all else.

So, as far as true love goes...I'm still looking.

"When you love someone, you love the whole person, just as he or she is, and not as you would like them to be."

~Leo Tolstoy

"Well, Y'all Look Alike"

Okay, I don't even know if I could find a pic that would go along with this story, but it kind of cracks me up every time I replay it in my mind. And maybe anyone reading might not find the humor, but after years of being on the end of racially ignorant comments, I have to add this interaction.

The other day I was walking down the hallway towards my office. I smiled and greeted two of the housekeeping staff who were chatting at a cleaning closet, as I passed by. At the end of the hallway, walking towards me, I saw one of the techs walking towards me with a great big smile on her face. This is how our interaction went as we passed by each other:

Tech: "Let me ask you, do you be knowin' what they be sayin' when they be talkin' their language?"

Me: "What the f-heck did you just say..?"

Tech: (Lauging) "I guess you really don't be understandin' what I be sayin'!"

Sooo...aside from the grammar that totally would have curled my hair had I not put so much product in it, here's the actual funny part of the whole story:

1. I'm third generation Japanese (sansei) in America. The only words I know in Japanese are from the song Mr. Roboto by Styx, and a few other words not usually found in proper Japanese conversation--my fave word being bakatare. (Okay, so I'm fudging a little, I do know more than that, but I thought it would add a little humor.)
2. One of the women at the closet is Korean (primary language Korean, speaks some English--a little broken).
3. The other woman she was talking to is Filipino (I think her primary language is Tagalog, speaks English well, but when with the other Filipino workers, occasionally speaks Tagalog).

...Wait, there's more:

Later that morning, the tech comes walking towards me laughing. With a big grin on her face, she proudly announces her discovery loud enough for everybody to hear, "I know what I was doing this morning--I was talkin' that ebonics!"

Change

Last night it snowed. At the time, I had wanted to go out and take some photos of the freshly falling snow, but it was too cold and too late. Would have been nice to get some photos while it was light outside today, but the first chance I had was this evening after work. The sun had gone down and the wind was blowing. I snapped a few photos, and by a few, I mean five. I wasn't really ready to go in--until after the fifth photo. I had lost my balance and beautifully managed a maneuver to save my camera by twisting my body as I fell. It was so cold out nobody was around to witness my dazzling skills and athleticism. Haha. In reality, I was stunned as I found myself lying on the ground on my back, feet and arms flailing in the air.

The first pic below is the last one I snapped. Plain. It is of some brown, dried up Japanese Blood Grass sticking out of the snow. While taking the photo, somewhere in my head popped an image of strong blades of grass radiating the beautiful colors of fall in the light of the sun. A photograph. I had to find it. Scanning through the numerous uploaded pics in my iPhoto library (yay to the digital era), I finally found the photo of the image that was burned into my memory--taken on a beautiful fall day.

"Autumn to winter, winter into spring,

Spring into summer, summer into fall,--

So rolls the changing year, and so we change;

Motion so swift, we know not that we move.

~Dinah Maria Mulock

I look forward to spring, when the first green blades of grass begin to peek through the ground, continuing the cycle. Until then, I will enjoy winter and all it has to offer.

"Everything changes, nothing remains without change."

~ Siddhārtha Gautama

A Note To Alessia

"You haven't updated your blog in a while..." A comment found in a message from one of my friends today. I smiled. Reading these words, thinking to myself that I could have sworn I posted the yesterday, if not the day before. I checked my blog. Nope. Somehow when you're busy time seems to escape. Busy, is totally a matter of perception. Some people are good at multitasking, some people feel they can only handle one thing at a time--and some multitaskers should probably only handle one thing at a time.

As for this blog, some days making entries is so effortless, some days it is draining. Because my entries/thoughts are centered around a photo or two, it is difficult to make an entry if I have not been using my camera. Which is why it's been several days since my last entry. I keep trying to think of a photo to use.

I need my inspiration.

Looking at today's photo, while making this entry in the quietness of the house, I get a sense of peace and the beauty of nature. The only obvious thing noting the presence of mankind is the rippling of the waves towards the shoreline...

Distractions. My peripheral vision spies the snow falling outside the windows of my house, which adds to the beauty. My thoughts change to ideas about my next entry and the possibilities of blog entries I could make after taking wonderful photos of the snow.

FOCUS. Oh yeah, the reason I chose the photo. Although feelings of peacefulness arise when I look at this photo, there is also a reminder of change--for off in the distance lie glaciers that are receding from the water's edge. A sign of human presence and global warming. With that thought brought to the front of my mind, the feeling of peacefulness that I had experienced when initially looking at the photograph is tainted.

Perception.

On that note, if you're looking for something always to bring a laugh, go visit http://stuffjoesays.blogspot.com/

What's in a name?

Since I'm in a Japanesie (is that a word?) mode, just thought I'd post a picture of my name in Japanese.

It is written in Kanji. This is only one of several ways to write my name. I don't have any examples of the other ways, though. Each symbol has a meaning. I don't know what the top symbol is, but I do have a picture of the bottom symbol with the meaning below it.

Yeah, I kinda get a chuckle out of the meaning of the symbol, too...

2010

AKEMASHITE OMEDETO GOZAIMASU

❀HAPPY NEW YEAR❀

❤

I should have spent the weeks prior to Omikosa (the day of New Year's Eve) cleaning the house. This is done to get rid of the dirt from the passing year and to welcome the New Year with a fresh and peaceful mind. Unfortunately, most of December was spent in the chaos of work, spending too many hours pulled in various directions, trying get the processes down for a smooth transition of the joint venture into the New Year. This left me totally exhausted, which I think set me up for a nasty cold to close the season. It is this cold that has blown away my nights, leaving me with barely enough energy to pass through dinner, on to an unavoidable nap, and then lying awake in bed from the hours of eleven to about three in the morning.

New Year's morning used to be a tradition in my family. Gathering and eating Ozoni for breakfast and then making sushi for a family open house. The family open house was a hit with all of my parents' friends. People would even call if they didn't get an invitation to see, if by chance, their invitation got lost in the mail or whether my parents were even having an open house. Thus, my parents were never able to decrease the size of the gathering of well-wishers, which would leave my whole family totally exhausted from cooking, cleaning, and serving the whole afternoon into the darkness of the night. People would even brave the ice storms or deep snowfall for a meal. Since my father died in 2005, the tradition slowly grew smaller, with just family and a few close friends coming over. With my mother being sick from her cancer, there was no New Year's party of 2009.

This year, with just me being in the house, barely a notice that the New Year has arrived, for the house is a mess, and I had to work this morning, leaving me with no desire to do more than defrost some frozen chili for dinner.

One thing that I did muster enough energy to do after work on this freezing day, was to go to the art museum to see an exhibit titled Five Centuries of Japanese Screens, which is about to close in a couple of days after a three month run. Amazingy huge screens (byobu) hand painted with various scenes filled a few showrooms. I definitely enjoyed the pre-modern displays, but not as fond of the contemporary art pieces in the exhibit. Wandering through the small rooms, although spotted with other people viewing, left me with a kind of a serene peaceful feeling. Enough to forget about the cold of the outside--until I actually took a step out of the building to go home.

In the photo below, is a screen that has hung on the living room wall of the house in which I was raised, and now am currently living. Never a thought went through my mind to ever really look at it, but I thought it would be a perfect photo to include with this entry. No quote for the photo. Just wishes for happiness and good health throughout the New Year.