Thanksgiving. . . Miso?

Recovering from my first Japanese flu, I haven't been thinking much about food. . . but tonight it occurred to me that tomorrow is Thanksgiving! Being the good ex-patriot that I am, I decided to cook something special for tomorrow. Turkey? Hah. Stuffing? Nah. Pumpkin Pie? Hmmmm, without an oven????!!! So with the sad lack of an oven, I resorted to. . . miso soup. This soup is usual Japanese fare (often breakfast) made from kelp, vegetables, tofu and miso paste (a flavored bean paste), all boiled together with a bit of fish flavoring. Or at least that's the recipe one of my students recited to me. Hmmm, I think I used too many vegetables, my miso is a bit more like a chowder than a soup. Well, just in case you're bored by these unglamorous photos, I've included one from last Sunday's Nissan party at the Utsunomiya Grand Hotel. I teach at the GKN Driveline company 4 times per week, so I attended their 5-year anniversary party and actually had the chance to speak to my students in Japanese! (In class it's only English, of course:( I'm pictured with Shuhei, one of my Tuesday night students. Happy Thanksgiving everyone, and I wish all of you could join me for some miso soup and rice tomorrow morning!!! (evil grin)

Sara

In organizing my computer, I was arrested again by this photo. Any of you connected with the Gaskills or Double D Arabians will recognize Sara (and Uncle Den, of course ;) Sara died during my first week in Japan, so this photo is precious to me. She had a long life, and was my companion during many summers-- my partner in so many adventures! For many years, this little mare epitomized my vision of the ideal horse-- she had enough energy to be challenging, but also enough sensitivity to read her rider. She didn't like the arena much, but there's no horse I'd rather be riding on a tough trail! Or barrel-racing; she definately had a competitive spirit! There were days without number that I would slip a bridle on Sara in the back field and take her for a bareback canter in the woods. Of course, those of you that knew Sara also know that a "canter" on her could quickly turn into a gallop-- she was a little horse with a big engine! Yet she also seemed able to read my emotions, and she would adjust her pace if I was sad or tired. I've never met another horse like her-- even on three continents!-- and I probably never will. She was the best little mare I've ever known, and I still miss her, though I'm on the other side of the world.

Better Late Than. . .

Rather ridiculous, but these photos are pre-Japan era. In organizing my computer, I rediscovered a few photos and thought they might be nice for a few people to see: those of you in Michigan that remember Kit as an unschooled ex-racehorse with a few crazy habits. Of course, she's still an ex-racehorse with a few crazy habits, but at least now she's had some schooling :) I just wish I could ride her again and try some of the things I'm learning at Fuji Horse Riding Club! These photos were taken just before I left. Tatia, the photo of Ole is especially for you. And for the rest of you: yes, my brother Levi really is that tall :)