only in japan..

Just realised how much I spent on chocolates... about $100 NZ. Of course not for me, but for a good friend that often sends to me the best rice there is - natural, organic brown (and white) rice - all 10kgs of it too. In Japan, it is not expected (well I guess it is in a way), to give a gift after receiving a gift. Often people would prefer to pay in cash of what someone wants from a friend, however, most of the time, cash wouldn't be accepted, and that is where one has to go through and choose an appropriate gift to return their kindness. So I chose Godiva chocolates, hoping that they will enjoy them. It is always hard to try and decide on how much to spend and what to buy exactly.. I always think that you can't go that wrong with food.. at least it get's eaten, and if you really don't like it that much, then you can always just give it away to someone else! (Is it bad luck to give away a present as a present??) Nothing worse than receiving something that you don't like and then you have the agonizing task of not knowing what to do with it... Definitely been down that road before - as everyone has I am sure.


They have some great gift giving strategies over here where you can buy cash certificates from a department store. A great idea to give to someone that has everything. If worse comes to worse then at least they can go and spend it at the supermarket at the department store! And it's not just at that ONE department store, but all of them throughout the country, ranging from travel packages, food to clothing and concert tickets. I have yet to receive this kind of gift, but, hey if anyone needs to return a favour to me, these department tickets are the way to go! And they are very easy to carry around.. unlike presents.



This week the weather has changed to quite a wintery spell. The far west of Japan has had a large dumping of snow. Very unusual at this time of the year. Will be pleased that the cherry blossoms are blooming and this weekend will be the "official hanami parties" or "viewing" that will be taking place. Therefore, avoid the parks with the beautiful blossoms, unless you like the crowds and want to keep up with tradition. Me, well, have been invited to a couple of hanami parties, however, depending on the weather and whether I can fit in everything that needs to be done before the hanami viewing. Incidentally, was walking around this morning in Tokyo University and there was an amazing cherry blossom tree. I never knew that it existed till this morning.

As much as the cherry blossoms are a girly thing (perhaps not considered in this country), I was very impressed with them and did feel in awe of their subtle beauty.

A thing of beauty is a joy forever.
John Keats