Category Archives: Japan, Travel & Culture

A Great Week in Tokyo

I had one Sogetsu Ikebana class on Monday morning and the rest of the week off. A nice change of pace. I liked being an observer rather than the creator. I spent the time taking in art exhibits, city views … Continue reading

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New Variations: Old Rules Do Not Apply

This week I had but one class at the Sogetsu School as the rest of the week was devoted to teacher workshops on the new Book 5 curriculum. With the basic forms and various slanted styles behind me, I began … Continue reading

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Finding a Teapot and a Tree

Bingo! She scores! Banzai! I now have a white ceramic teapot with a strainer. (Finally, I can soothe my soul by making a cuppa during those moments such consolation is needed.) Six bucks. Plus a paring knife and a couple … Continue reading

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A Kitchen Not Quite Fully Equipped

When I undertook to live in Tokyo for three months I understood there would be new things to figure out. I knew I’d have no idea how anything worked except as outlined in the big blue binder of rules and … Continue reading

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Beginning Sogetsu Ikebana Lessons in Tokyo

After eighteen months or so of no Ikebana lessons, the first days of classes in Tokyo’s Sogetsu School reminded me of how little I remember. I am glad I’ve chosen to start again from Book 1 Lesson 1.

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A Shout out to Brastel’s Japan Travel SIM

  If you are not particularly tech savvy like me, solving the problem of cell phone service while in Japan can be challenging. Hours of online research online went into weighing the options. My Canadian provider could give me coverage, … Continue reading

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Creating a Cozy Home in Tokyo

Before traveling to Tokyo I had done a meticulous assessment of my suite’s floor plan and colour scheme from the photos provided by the rental company. As a result, I brought a few items to personalize the space with me.

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First Days in Tokyo

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Be Creative. It’s fun.

After he returned from his International Space Station mission, Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield told Zoomer magazine (May 2017), “It’s an intoxicating and completely engrossing environment. It was how I imagined, but better. It was richer, more profound and more stimulating.”

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Nine Steps to Organizing 90 Days in Tokyo

Organizing a 3-month private stay to study Ikebana (flower arranging) in Tokyo is not unlike other major event planning.

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