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