Author Archives: Lynda Philippsen

A Day Trip to Maizuru

Though we must wait more than 45 minutes for it (worth every second), we order a set of freshly caught shellfish which is prepared for us on gas grills in the back of the stall. Continue reading

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Nijo-jinya, Edo Period Inn, Kyoto

No doubt we’re probably peeking into private things we shouldn’t. I get a real feeling for what it might have been like sneaking about in the olden days. Continue reading

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International Service Club (ISC) Kyoto

One of Kyoto’s great treasures is not found among the famous temples, gardens, museums, galleries or various artisan’s shops. Rather, it’s a largely unsung and little-known club with no splashy website: International Service Club (ISC) Kyoto.

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Visiting a community onsen in rural Japan

After we wash our bodies we make our way to the rotenburo (outdoor pool), this one rust-dark with iron-rich mineral water. For half an hour we sink to our earlobes in the soothing, restorative spring. Continue reading

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Abbotsford Rescinds Offensiveness Policy idea

At the next council meeting the motion was withdrawn. Continue reading

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Note to Self: Grab a Pillow

The voice inside our heads that tells us that we’re not doing everything well—you know, you should put a pillow over that voice and suffocate it. –E. Renzetti Continue reading

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Abbotsford’s proposed offensiveness policy is silly

Drafting a formal policy to block the use of city facilities for everything that could be considered “offensive” is dangerous. Where does it stop? As you state, there are numerous sports, musical acts, art works or books which might be considered “offensive” by some segments of society. Vetting them all is pointless. Continue reading

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A Lady at a Bridge in Uji

My state of mind mirrors the river. Like the Tale of Genji’s Uji Chapters–gloomy narratives, bridge chapters, dark mood states, and characters weary of this world–it’s one of those days where much goes wrong on the journey. Continue reading

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Special thanks

Getting to know passionate and top-quality people through contract work has been an unanticipated bonus in my writing life. Continue reading

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I find no love for the kotatsu

I admit that I do not understand and cannot share the Japanese love-affair with the kotatsu. Continue reading

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