Temples & Tatami: Nikko and Takayama

One of the best things about traveling in Japan is the extensive and efficient train system. We took one (usually more than one) almost every day. As a day trip from Tokyo, we travelled north to Nikko, a town with a huge and wooded temple complex designated as a world heritage site. It was in Nikko that we learned a very important lesson: all good things in Japan are uphill. Each impressive temple is either up an incline or flight … Continue reading

Produce Pantry

My kitchen is overflowing with wonderful fall produce. As sad as I am about the coming cooler weather, it has been such a treat to see new foodthings to buy, cook, and enjoy. Trader Joe’s has had some whimsical displays of these fairy tale pumpkins, and I wanted one every time I walked past. I think it would look great on my kitchen table. And when I came home the other night, David had one waiting for me! It is … Continue reading

Vintage Treasure

As a general rule, used things give me the heebie jeebies. Put me into a vintage clothing store, and watch me mentally unravel as I stand stick straight to avoid touching the origin-unknown apparel that inevitably protrudes into my personal space and begs my claustrophobia to send me running for air free of stale lint. My neurosis  prevents me from looking great in the unique pieces my friends always seem to find. My neurosis extends to other, similar areas as … Continue reading