Kamakura outing

Today it was OBON, a very important holiday for Japanese people. This is the day to return to your family home, to connect with ancestors. What a better excuse for me to return to one of my favorite places, Kamakura. It is 1 hour outside of Tokyo, with a 35' bronze Buddha, built in 800 AD. Though it was extremely hot and humid, I arrived early to start my hike while it was cooler. There is a hiking trail that leads from the train station, over a mountain, past the grave and temple of a famous shogan, and arriving at the Daibutsu (Great Buddha).

This trail has been used for hundreds of years, and I truly felt I was walking in the footsteps of the ancestors. Notice the stairs, made of wood. In some places, there were rounded footholds worn into large smooth rocks, showing centuries of use.

Here's the view from the top, looking out over the town of Kamakura. At top right is the harbor beach, which you will see a close-up photo of at the end of this post.

These seats are actual log stumps, set around stone tables, using only natural materials. Placed on the temple grounds for those hiking this pilgrimage to the Buddha, they have been here long enough to grow mushrooms!

It was very crowded, so I was delighted to catch a photo while the Buddha had some peace and quiet.

What would Buddha think of her shoes!

After the Buddha, walking down the shopping street.
This kitty was a favorite for many tourist photos.
I think he liked the attention!

OMG! How does anyone swim? Too crowded for me. Time to go home! I'm planning a trip to the beach at the end of my trip. I have heard that there are Jelly Fish warnings by the government after September 1 - but just to get everyone back to work! So the beach will probably be empty for me.

This is a short post today. I'll post again soon. Enjoy your weather, where ever you are, knowing that here, it is hot, hot, hot!

Love Daeryl

Summer 2012 trip begins!

This trip is dedicated to my mother, Ruth, who passed away exactly one month ago. She was quite an adventurer and would have loved Japan, so I keep picturing that she is with me as I move through this friendly and gracious land.

The view out of my 5th story condo. At left is a children's park, complete with a zip line! The sound of cicadas is resounding this time of year. Even with a busy street, and construction, my apartment is amazingly peaceful and quiet. In the morning, It's quite hot and humid here, again, as is usual for the summer.

 

 

 

 

I haven't started work yet, so I went on a excursion to the Institute of Nature Study, a large tract of land within Tokyo which includes natural wetlands and woods. Originally the lands of a 1600s shogun, it stayed wild until the 1950s, when it was set up as a Museum of Nature and Science. Exploring with an eye through my camera lens, I mostly captured close-ups of plants and insects. Here's a few of my favorites. If you click on the image, the photo gets bigger.

I call these "fuzzy hot dog" reeds.

Not sure what kind of fungus these are, but they were quite large. The tree trunk was probably 16" in diameter. When the sun hit the one on the left, the heat caused orange 'dust' to float in the air. Unfortunately, you can't see that in the photo.

Maybe this says, "Joe loves Emily." I'm not sure!

These guys were everywhere. About 3" long from end to end.

I caught this large one as it landed for a moment. Probably 6 or 7" nose to tip of tail. The dark mass between his body and the branch is part of the tree, making the body appear a strange shape.

This one's for Tarin, who has trained me to be compelled to take photos of spiders!

I kept trying to catch this one flying, with wings open. The way they fly is designed to make it difficult for their predators to anticipate their movements, so it was equally effective on me!

Lots of moms with young children were inside exploring nature. This is the favorite mode of transportation. Amazing to watch a woman (often in a short skirt and heels) navigating through traffic with two toddlers! I've even seen one with an additional infant slung across her front.

And finally, on the way home, I couldn't pass up a photo of a sign in the subway. What not to do with your cell phone, and how to stop a train from running over a drunk! Understandable in any language, but the Japanese have a flair for cartoon images and bright colors to draw attention.

Tonight I begin my work, presenting an Evening Seminar. I am excited about this trip, as the two products we have been working on for the past year are now on the market.  

The Spirit Game is a board system, with dice, to give people a tool to have self-introspection about their lives and a tool for calling in their Spirit Team. It was fun to call on my skills as a graphic designer to illustrate the board and design symbols for the dice, and it was a new exercise in letting go of control to have the book translated into Japanese!

There is also a DVD, about 2 hours long, which was filmed last winter. I present 6 topics of inspiration, with stories and guided visualizations. That was perhaps one of the most challenging things I've ever done, as it was all filmed within 1 short day, and under pressure to look good, make no mistakes, and even 'wing it' on a couple of pieces added last minute. Whew! 

Also new for this trip, I will be teaching Level 4, which is a practical application of material learned in Levels 1-3. I am excited to see many return students and see them evolving into healers and teachers.  

Blessings!
Daeryl

Photos from my trip last winter, not previously posted.

 Sightseeing in the Asakusa area. North end of Tokyo, near the Sumidagawa (river). This river runs north/south down to the Tokyo harbor.

So, first I wandered around in the area of shopping streets that lead to the temple grounds. Following the street layout that predates cars, these streets are narrow enough for pedestrians only. Makes for a crowded, but easier wandering pace. So I spent a couple hours gawking at crowds of all types of people, snacking at street vendor stalls, being amazed at the variety of little shops, and taking photos.


The cherry blossoms aren't in bloom yet, but there are lots of fake ones around, just to get us in the mood I suppose.

The temple area was swarming with people, as it is quite famous, having been established in 630 or so. I've found most of the Buddhist temples to be quite large, embellished with gold and elaborate paintings, carvings, and multiple buildings. While the Shinto shrines seem to be subtler and not as frequented. I find the Shinto ones to be much more peaceful.

Sensoji Temple, Asakusa

The photo with the lanterns is leading up to the main Temple. There was also a five story pagoda, and several other similar buildings.

This lady was all by herself, no crowds around, while right on the other side of those bushes is the scene at the temple. Behind her, was a lovely little pond with stream, Japanese foot bridge and camelia bushes. Part of the Shinto shrine area.

Lovely young ladies, who were on their way somewhere, and graciously allowed me to take their photo. 

 Legs at the lantern shop.



And me, on right, pretending to be part of an ancient Japanese wood block! Just a futile attempt at fitting in here!


For those who don't know... if you click on any photo, it should show up bigger for more detail.

 I apologize for any bizarre formatting. Wish I could figure out how to just put these photos all next to each other with captions!!

At left is the famous Asahi Beer building. It's the black one, shaped like a beer glass, with the gold shape on it. The buildings are really modern art sculptures some times. Also in this shot, is the newest, tallest tower. The gold building was super reflective depending on whether or not the sun was shining on it, and from which direction. Then I went on a river cruise and got the opportunity to see many wild things. Hard to photo, unless they were on my side, since the boat was covered in plexiglass. (I showed up too late in the day to be allowed to ride on top!) I thought I might see some green areas, but the entire distance was fully cement and tall buildings!






The next view, is through the right side windows (complete with stylish light fixtures!) looking down a smaller side canal, which had many old style boats - maybe parked along their owner's apartments?

 These buildings are across the river, hard to see in this shot. The water gate is very old, from Shogun days. Standing there, I wondered what the ole Shogun would think of his falconry grounds being now in the middle of such a metropolis! The water comes in here, to feed a beautiful little lake, with a tea house where many Shoguns and other dignitaries entertained their guests. Didn't have time to have tea, as I was trying to get home before rush hour.

This is the tea house, set in the lake, now with gigantic glass buildings behind it! Also, the sounds were in contrast. Freeway noise mixed with cawing crows who were gathered up in the tree tops. There's a wooded area with tall pines just to the right of the lake. The crows are really large here, bigger I think than ravens.

3/11 anniversary

Two separate posts, to tell of the profound effect of being in Japan at this time. Followed by a day trip with photos.

This last weekend, I was teaching my Level 2 seminar. The first day focused on Love Relationships and Soul Mates. I learn so much about the differences in our cultures! In America, it is not unusual, as many of you know (!!!), to have multiple relationships before you find 'the one.' And, to live together, get divorced and remarry is also not uncommon. In Japan, especially for women, it is quite common to live with parents until marriage, so they have much less experience - certainly less than my trail of adventure! What remains consistence where ever I teach is our desire for true love.

The second day, 3/11, marked the one year anniversary of the earthquake and tsunami that were so devastating to this country. Over 20,000 died, with many thousands still counted as missing. I'm not sure how many lost homes, business, communities, but it is over 100,000 if not 200,000. The recovery is slow, with so many still in evacuation style housing, separated from extended family members, no assistance or compensation (no insurance, no FEMA). The despair is great. But so, also, is the hope, cooperation and tenacity to bounce back. People are working together patiently.

The special television shows in Japan tell amazing tales. Like volunteers dedicating themselves to cleaning and restoring photo albums recovered from the muddy mess, organizing them in bins, and cataloging them by type of event/photo using a new computer software by 'Nifty' designed just for this purpose. Then people can come into the building, scroll through digitized photos in hopes of finding someone they recognize, which leads them to the photo album. It may not sound that important, compared to rebuilding a home, but for those who literally lost everything, being reunited with photo memories is quite emotional and healing.

On Sunday, during my seminar, the entire country of Japan refocused on that traumatic day. People everywhere stopped whatever they were doing at 2:46 pm to send a prayer, etc. Later I saw TV of the busiest intersection in Tokyo, where hundreds were walking, then simultaneously stopped in their tracks. Total silence, and all bowing their heads in respect and prayer. The only sound was a loudspeaker, probably leading that moment. I had the honor of leading the seminar students in our own version of this moment. Holding the vision of all of those who died as thousands of beautiful butterflies lifting to the sky, to a radiant ball of light. Then holding the vision of all survivors being one large family, instead of many separate ones. To see them feeling supported by all of us. It was quite a moving day. Even with the difficulties I have had in my life, I am humbled by the challenge these others are enduring. I only hope I help in whatever way I have to offer.

Many blessings,
Daeryl

A day out in Ueno

This is a section of a very long metal wall along the back of one of the subway stops. It was very intricate, with heart shapes, bicycles, and train motif, perhaps 300 yards. All found metal parts. Every subway station has a mix of advertising, art installations, and safety warning signs, but little graffiti.

I traveled here several times, on my way to the weekend seminar I taught. So I have finished the first of 3 weekends, plus 7 of 10 private session days. All going well. The students and clients are so open and gracious. And I seem to be collecting a wonderful assortment of cute gifts and yummy treats!

This view is from the 11th floor, where I was teaching. The tower is new, and I am not sure how high, but said to be one of the great engineering feats (and highest buildings) so far. For Tokyo, if not the world.

The city seems to go on endlessly in all directions. It's amazing. Hard to believe by US standards, as there are always sections of single family homes. But here, all the buildings are multi-storied and close together. There are nice breaks with large parks, temples, and historic places, but the rest of it is compact!

Finally, an outing! After a short meeting, on Monday, I went over to the fitness club again. This time, not quite so energetic, as my back has been giving me some issues, so I took a stretch class. Felt great, and I was a bit more comfortable, as the others in the class were older ladies like myself. Then a good soak in the jacuzzi.

So, off to Ueno, an older section of the city, which is filled with little walking streets, fishermen selling their fresh catches, stands with all kinds of packaged regional foods, and yummy stuff to eat. My friend Stacey, was an excellent guide (fluent in Japanese) and very adventurous. Apparently this was an area catering to the American soldiers stationed here after WWII, as so there are also nightclubs, Panchinko and Mai jong parlors. A wild mix. Loved this shot of the very wide crossing area - notice the striped skirt matching!

Here's me at the intersection of several long corridors which went off at only 20 - 30 degrees, not the standard 90 for streets in US. I would have easily gotten lost without my guide!!! We ate grilled enagi (eel), salmon, and yakitori (chicken on a stick) as well as all sorts of pickled things, and some kind of Chinese dumpling that you suck the 'soup' out of first. We were up for just about anything, to fully savor the experience, but it was easy to pass up the whale sushi.

Here's a view of one of the open air fish displays. It's cold enough to keep fresh caught fish okay, and I hear they have it on ice in the summer. Even so, I'm sure the health dept wouldn't go for this in US. I'm constantly marveling at the lack of flies, even in summer. But I'm sure that the Japanese would be equally astonished that we don't manage our garbage to keep the flies from starting up in the first place!


This lion is marking a shop selling things from Okinawa, which was not part of Japan until about 70 years ago (I'm not exactly sure of the date).

Stacey is standing in the doorway of an old building where we ate dinner. Most of Tokyo has been rebuilt since 1945, but occasionally you come across one that is much older. It had an authentic traditional interior, with bar and kitchen on the first floor, then smaller booths and rooms on the second.

This night scene of so many banners was taken on our way out of the nightclub area of Ueno district, near to the station. If you look carefully, you can spot the moon. It might be mistaken for a light at the end of the lamp post to the left of the blue flag.

Love the Japanese signage. Cute, neon, traditional, or a mix. You just never know.

It's been raining, and raining, and raining. But I think there may be a break now for the next few days. Another day of sessions tomorrow and then a planning meeting. Next trip in summer, I think I'll be here a little longer, to teach 4 levels, instead of just the first 3.

I love hearing from all of you while I am here. And I'll try to post again soon.

Love Daeryl

Here's more!!!

 I've finished my first three days of private sessions. My heart is full of sharing, profound connection, healing and gratitude. This box of treats was given to me by a client who I had never met or worked with. Several clients came from far away in Hokkaido, the northern most island. I feel so good, on so many levels, for this opportunity.

I haven't made it out for the usual tourist excursions, though I am enjoying my time here in a very different way. With local sushi (see below) which I bring back to my room, and more social activities, I am feeling more at home here. Almost like a local, but always a geijin (outsider)!!!

The weather has been tremendously brisk, but I am very comfortable in my room, or bundled up in my hooded down coat! Last night I listened to wind howling outside.

I am learning and experiencing more about the Japanese culture. One day, I watched with delight a group of unescorted school children. Perhaps only 6 or 7 years old, the three of them were walking together from the subway to their school, which was at least 4 blocks away, through heavy traffic and crowded side walks. They were chatting and giggling, dressed in identical school uniforms, complete with matching umbrellas and backpacks. A sight unheard of in America. I actually watched for some time, thinking I would see an adult, but they truly were on their own, and I am sure it only seemed unusual to someone like me.

This is the shrine which I walk past everyday. The street here is very narrow, perhaps only enough room for a car and a pedestrian. The heart on the bulletin board is a rare example of graffiti, which is conspicuously absent.

Here's the Obama bag I mentioned last time. I just had to go back and catch the photo op! Anything American is immediately taken as a pop culture icon. Good, bad, or indifferent. I wonder if he knows he's hanging next to "Hello Kitty"????

Last night, I had the great opportunity to join a group of people who have formed a volunteer group. Called Intrepid Model Adventures, it was begun my a young man (model) who has devoted countless hours and his own money to regularly gather and deliver food, goods, and hope to the folks in tsunami areas. An inspiration to be with so many who are energized by the idea of making a difference in the world. Looking forward to connecting with them again. Perhaps to join them on one of the excursions north. Dean, the model and instigator, is on the left. I now have one of these shirts, which doesn't really haven't any significance for NY. I imagine they were donated, so they just printed around the idea, to include "& Japan" after the NY part. They raised the equivalent of 2000 dollars last night. Pretty impressive.

Today, I had the delightful surprise, on my day off, of going out to lunch with friends who I know from Marfa! Talk about a small world. Yummy sushi. Here's Andrew and Christine, as photo proof!!

I'm resting up before another 3 days of private sessions. Will write more again before too long!

Love Daeryl

Hi all, (notice conspicuous absence of "y'all")

Love having a view! I sit up in bed in the morning, to drink my coffee and this is what I see.

Yesterday was one of the most intense days of my life! ... filming a 2 hour DVD. I've been working up to it for a couple months, with writing scripts, figuring out how to do make-up for camera (yup - ole hippy Daeryl wore lipstick!), picking out the right clothes, and generally having anxiety about what would be involved and how I would do on camera! So I was relieved when all went well. A great team of photographers, translator, and staff assisting me. From now on, the rest of my work here is going to see super casual and easy by comparison!

So, here's more photos as promised. Wandered around the neighborhood. This pond and waterfall are part of nearby Arisugawa Park. Lots of young mothers with kids, older men lined up for fishing, foot paths, bridges, and trees almost ready to bust out in leaves and blossoms. I know I'm going to enjoy coming here quite a bit, just to be in a bit of nature. I love walking around - there's so much to see.


This new neighborhood is great. Lots of shops and restaurants, and a variety of grocery stores. More geared for all of the nearby embassies. I've had sushi several times, yum. After my Ustream seminar on Monday evening, I had the pleasure of sitting next to an older Japanese man, who was hesitant to speak English with me, but once he got going he was quite charming. I constantly amused and delighted by the graciousness of the Japanese.


I'm still trying to master the photo/text layout issue with this blog format. Sorry if it's wonky doodle.

In my shopping, down little alleys, I saw a "President Obama" shopping bag, next to Hello Kitty and other bags.

Speaking of Hello Kitty...here's an ole dude I spotted just sitting and staring at me. I call him "Go Away and Leave Me Alone" Kitty.

Tonight, I'm presenting an introductory seminar, which I really enjoy. It'll be great to talk to a real audience, as so far this trip I've only been on camera! Then I have a day off, before three days of client sessions.

This building caught my eye. Covered with a layer of frosted glass, and with the gray sky, it almost looks like it's got a sheet of ice on it. The architecture here is amazing modern art.


Thanks to those who send me emails letting me know you read my blog! Great to have a little back and forth, especially in English, while I am over here.

Rots of Rove!
Daeryl