tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89460052832981096602024-03-05T12:20:05.727-08:00Micah C Micah DoMicah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.comBlogger476125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-25639248190385248172015-09-24T12:00:00.000-07:002015-09-24T13:30:25.428-07:00Tie On Highchair*****Update*****<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
There has been a recent increase in interest in this post. I have attempted to add instructions to help those wanting to create their own. Please let me know if you need more info.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyLMfnbnASEgD_kExfwjJIkcxTKJ401Lk8OysvHqGgoC917WZEL5l6Whog-ugGnYOYOSr1pYRAo4GNi9L1K1q-yg-GNUFvAHHVZkYWs7jG8fqbvZhiWF7ZZjp8tUFhcWPEckQbDcT0dc/s1600/TieChair2+009a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiyLMfnbnASEgD_kExfwjJIkcxTKJ401Lk8OysvHqGgoC917WZEL5l6Whog-ugGnYOYOSr1pYRAo4GNi9L1K1q-yg-GNUFvAHHVZkYWs7jG8fqbvZhiWF7ZZjp8tUFhcWPEckQbDcT0dc/s640/TieChair2+009a.jpg" width="480" wt="true" /></a></div>
This is one of the projects I have been working on the past little while. This is the second one I made (well, third if you count my half made test pattern!). Charlotte has had a hard time waiting for her finished project. When she saw that it was done, she jumped around clapping her hands. <br />
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There have been several times over the last 8 years when I really needed a portable highchair. Visiting the In-Laws, friends, church functions, etc... When I realized that I could be without a highchair for up to 90 days when we move and we would be visiting family again - I decided I had to have something and I had to have it now. I saw pictures of a cute <a href="http://www.tiechair.com/">Tie Chair</a> and so I came up with my own version.<br />
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I didn't have mine tie in front (even though I love the bow in front) because my kids spill so darn much, I figured it would get gunky after one use!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAK4i6JZL9oTnkwfPSoXO084YgL-J7Rhg-iuDsqdCEhTJvAY3D7YEMCOLfkJXHstrz259peMSswWZrPJD3LBoWF8l75ESoMsJIb_q-cwivJEN9fmvmHvMOzpq5eOKR2mHXEx_yCMOwoY/s1600/TieChair2+015a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHAK4i6JZL9oTnkwfPSoXO084YgL-J7Rhg-iuDsqdCEhTJvAY3D7YEMCOLfkJXHstrz259peMSswWZrPJD3LBoWF8l75ESoMsJIb_q-cwivJEN9fmvmHvMOzpq5eOKR2mHXEx_yCMOwoY/s640/TieChair2+015a.jpg" width="468" wt="true" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPosi5u-A0i0ZqGYKrNrxDpgi1OtYhnhm1kRZA0j7GU-vQ1vOShoO5xURk7RDJZD3T-wY_2rxmAa9jF7CJrvbJoqXsPEF9Lba1k3-7q-TDVrytUur5S2eVM4S9RhDqSR60KQxm5lP8Q4c/s1600/TieChair2+016a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPosi5u-A0i0ZqGYKrNrxDpgi1OtYhnhm1kRZA0j7GU-vQ1vOShoO5xURk7RDJZD3T-wY_2rxmAa9jF7CJrvbJoqXsPEF9Lba1k3-7q-TDVrytUur5S2eVM4S9RhDqSR60KQxm5lP8Q4c/s640/TieChair2+016a.jpg" width="480" wt="true" /></a></div>
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For those How Did You? Requests</div>
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This is not a full tutorial, I saw the idea and copied and don't want to take credit for creating this design.</div>
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These are my original notes, so hopefully it all works out.</div>
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Created with 1/2" seam allowances.</div>
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Cut 2 rectangles (I did one polka dot and one teal) 27 3/4" x37 1/4"</div>
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Cut 1 rectangle (polka dot, this creates the back pocket for the chair back to slip inside)27 3/4" x21 5/8"</div>
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For the ties, cut 8 at 5" x 44" </div>
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Here is a rough sketch showing finished measurements. Like I said - rough sketch. Let me know if you have more questions.</div>
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<a href="http://s886.beta.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013Jan/TieChair.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo TieChair.jpg" border="0" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013Jan/TieChair.jpg" height="237" width="400" /></a></div>
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A second attempt at making this a tutorial. There will be no step by step pictures.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ktW_O2eMndSbEr349Pm-_nJOPRlK3zlzkvEU5nnPNFb8NwmpJFceSCk38G6txDwAhzUXFfZSlxdXAppBo71jQd21C7iDLQJ36xBw3UjdMjUxvIVFYMwe15sSRyqnMfuTBSlVFEXklQQw/s1600/tieonhighchairpatternpieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2ktW_O2eMndSbEr349Pm-_nJOPRlK3zlzkvEU5nnPNFb8NwmpJFceSCk38G6txDwAhzUXFfZSlxdXAppBo71jQd21C7iDLQJ36xBw3UjdMjUxvIVFYMwe15sSRyqnMfuTBSlVFEXklQQw/s320/tieonhighchairpatternpieces.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are the pattern pieces, by dimension. You will have to measure and cut the rectangles and grab a plate or bowl to get the leg cut-outs so you like them.</div>
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1. cut out the pattern pieces according to measurement. On the two large rectangles, you will cut out two semi-circles leaving 10 1/4" wide at the narrowest point.</div>
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2. Sew your ties. Place two pieces right sides together. Sew leaving one end open, you can choose to sew the one end at an angle - but it is optional. Right side them out, work your corners to nice and pointy. Iron and top stitch if you choose.</div>
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3. Take the small rectangle and hem one edge (27 3/4"). Fold and press under a half inch, fold under another half inch (double folded). Iron and top stitch. </div>
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4. Layer your rectangles, all three are going to be sandwiched together. Lay your front down right side up, Place your ties and pin then. Be sure to secure the loose ends or you might catch them while you are sewing everything together. Then place your smaller rectangle (line up the un-hemmed 27 3/4" edge) right side down on top of your laid out pieces, on top will be the back side (mine was teal) right side down. Pin the edges together. (make sure your ties are not going to end up sewn down in the wrong places).</div>
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5. <b> Leave an opening so you can turn everything to the right side. </b>Turn everything to the right side. Be sure you layer correctly so you don't have to unpick!! Tuck and press in your raw edges at your opening and either hand sew closed or top-stitch all around for a nice finished look.</div>
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6. Iron and tie it on!!</div>
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7. If you have any further questions feel free to comment and I will try to answer them. Try to be as specific as possible in your question.</div>
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Original posted on 5/13/10</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-73380834047017648302013-10-29T15:29:00.002-07:002013-10-29T15:31:38.600-07:00A Spooky Charlotte's WebThe last few days the kids have been on a bug collecting kick. Today after school, Charlotte burst in the door wanting her bug box for a really cool spider. She grabbed it and out she ran. This is what she brought back.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013Oct/CharlottesWebcopy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo CharlottesWebcopy.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013Oct/CharlottesWebcopy.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Fortunately no humans were harmed in the collection process. A neighbor girl actually collected this beautiful Black Widow specimen. She is a fantastic, eerie, creepy, perfect example of a Black Widow. Everyone here now has the heebie jeebies. I think Jason is spraying tomorrow!</div>
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Happy Halloween!</div>
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-19348823047008771862013-10-17T22:06:00.000-07:002013-10-17T22:06:00.764-07:00Pretty in Pink and OrangeWhile my 3 oldest boys are roughing it in the cold, it is getting in the 30's. They are also sporting attractive orange clothing. I thought I would share a complete contrast.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/PinkSunset_0009.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo PinkSunset_0009.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/PinkSunset_0009.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Okinawa Sunset</i></div>
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Stay warm and safe!</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-15497051569685138602013-10-16T21:56:00.000-07:002013-10-16T21:56:00.237-07:00Our Little ParkJust before we left Japan we spent lots of time at our little park. Jason would frequently use it as his way of entertaining the girls while I was busy with the baby. I joined them one day and Jason had his camera. Those fun moments you get to watch your kiddos be kids.<br />
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As the temperatures get cooler and cooler here I start to miss the mild temperature of our island. I think I would even take a typhoon if it meant I was warm and could wear flip flops. We are adjusting and getting settled, it just seems like there is always an urgent situation needing out attention and I can't get into a routine. I am craving it. How do you get a routine going when every day something important disrupts it all? Seriously, would love to hear!<br />
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<br />Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-65030545952864435242013-10-15T21:30:00.002-07:002013-10-15T21:30:59.670-07:00Why We Use StrawsThis is why we use straws to drink my smoothies!<br />
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I make really thick smoothies because that is how I like them, more like a Frosty. Except my Frosty's have spinach, kale, blueberries, raspberries, flax, and pineapple juice. Lately I have been throwing in an apple from the local orchards - oh yummy! My friends taught me that the blueberries cancel out the bitterness from the Kale (and never use the stems, too bitter). The kids like them as long as I use plenty of pineapple juice.Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-31690399205399586052013-10-02T11:59:00.001-07:002013-10-02T11:59:27.555-07:00Pictures of our last day, Jayce's Perspective.I was downloading pictures and found these from our last day in Japan. I of course demanded that we spend part of it at the beach. We only had the morning until Jason had to drop off our car to its new owners. What I love about these pictures is Jayce had the camera for a big part of the day. I get to see what he thought was worth taking pictures of, I think they are cute.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/LastDay_0005copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo LastDay_0005copy.jpg" border="0" height="414" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/LastDay_0005copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Digging for sand toys.<br />
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They decided to splurge and pay for a banana boat ride. The Japanese are always worried about safety.<br />
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They are waiting for the ride to start, I don't think Jason was impressed. It was impressive enough for my boys.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/JayceCollage7.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo JayceCollage7.jpg" border="0" height="159" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/JayceCollage7.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
I love all the selfies! I wonder if the sign is warning about Typhoons or what. The wave is picking up that poor kid.<br />
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He loves the soda machines and Shisa's!<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Tych3.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Tych3.jpg" border="0" height="159" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Tych3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Jayce will miss the vending machines and soda choices.<br />
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A wooden ship playground, the kids love the zip line.<br />
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I had never read this sign and always wondered why they chose a wood ship for a playground. Thanks Jayce for the story!<br />
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More cute selfies!<br />
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Our final sunset, it was beautiful.</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-6039677684840483372013-09-18T22:30:00.003-07:002013-09-18T22:30:48.527-07:00Moustache Smile!After being re-united with family we loaded up into 4 or 5 vehicles for the final drive home. I quickly realized that my family had other plans and Charlotte was staying with cousins before I had time to say no. <br />
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The next time I saw Charlotte was lunch the next day, she was in borrowed clothes and this....<br />
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She is stinkin cute even with a moustache. (I love that the cousins put it on upside down and filled it in with permanent marker - which was the least permanent part of the moustache).<br />
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After lunch with 11 kids we headed back to Grammy's for the rest of the evening. By bedtime Charlotte was overly tired and we thought it was so funny. You couldn't tell she was upset, she had a permanent smile. Love that face.<br />
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Taking her picture helped to cheer her up and then we tucked her in and I don't think we saw any kids until late morning.</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-58376283839978686252013-09-17T00:04:00.000-07:002013-09-17T00:04:18.082-07:00Back in the Saddle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I apologize for my longer than expected absence. They packed up our belongings in Japan on June 18 and then we didn't see it again until August 24. We are still getting settled, but we are finally all connected again. I received a kind e-mail from blogher informing me that I was going to be dropped from their ad campaign, it has been too long since I blogged. I have had it on my to do list, but with unpacking, school, and a new business - I have been slower than I wanted. So, I am back to blogging and hope that my readers will return!</div>
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So much has happened and the time has flown since we left the hotel in Japan at 6:30 am on July 1. We spent the next 25+ hours travelling back to the states and our new life here.</div>
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30 minute bus ride</div>
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2 hour minute flight</div>
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6.5 hour layover</div>
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9.5 hour flight</div>
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3 hour layover</div>
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2 hour flight</div>
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1 hour layover</div>
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1 hour flight</div>
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30 minute car ride</div>
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14.5 hours flying</div>
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10.5 hours waiting</div>
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1 hour commuting</div>
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+ 1 sea bag, 2 medium suitcases, 5 carry-ons, 6 large suitcases, and 3 car seats (1 of which was a carry on) (not counting Jason's luggage)</div>
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Which of course it wasn't that smooth. Everything was relatively smooth until we reached Seattle. When you go through customs you pile all your luggage and carry-ons on to the carts to get through. Then they load it on a conveyor to go to your connecting flights. The airport personnel are so efficient that they had grabbed Jude's car seat and sent it off down the conveyor belt before we realized it. We needed to get it back. They told us it would be no big deal. We followed their instructions and said good by to Jason who was staying in Seattle.</div>
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Thank goodness I have a husband who worry's about us a ton. I took the kids and our carry-ons and headed to the gate. Parked us and sent Jayce and Grahm with money to buy some burgers while we waited. Shortly after that Jayce and Grahm return without burgers, but with Jason and the car seat. The airport had not idea where to send the car seat. we would have lost it! After feeding and pottying everyone I realize that they had changed our gate, fortunately not too far.</div>
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They are late boarding us and getting us to SLC. I only had an hour layover to begin with. And now I have no layover, 5 kids, carry-ons, and a car seat. We land and they asked everyone to stay seated so those of us with connecting flights could make it - no one every stays seated. We were at the back. We go off and I sent Jayce (who is very concerned about missing the flight), Grahm, and Charlotte to run ahead of me. While I carry Jude in the carry seat and beg with and plead with Tennyson to please run and keep up (this is at 24 hours of travel). Some how we made it to the gate, and they let us on. They even let me take Charlotte to the bathroom before we boarded (the plane is waiting for us). Tennyson and Jude are both having meltdowns at take off. We made it and were welcomed home with signs and a crowd.<br />
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We will forever miss Japan and will cherish the time we spent there.</div>
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-92004236465010325262013-06-15T07:44:00.001-07:002013-06-15T07:44:59.639-07:00MovingOur adventure in Japan is coming to a close. Our computer will be packed up in a couple of days and then it will be a month or so before I see it again. So, posts will be few and far between until we are settled.<br />
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We will miss Okinawa and are excited to have family in our daily lives again.Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-22267454550913755942013-06-15T07:42:00.004-07:002013-06-15T07:42:53.847-07:00A Couple First Smiles<br />
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-14900418815917269562013-06-14T08:14:00.000-07:002013-06-14T08:14:47.182-07:00Ryukyu Mura Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0210copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0210copy.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0210copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 17px;"><i>Here are my kiddos with the performers. There is the Emperor and Empress and their attendants, Kijimuna, female dancer and taiko drummer.</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 17px;">One of the really fun things about Ryukyu Mura is the parade/performances they hold twice each day. These performances showcase several of the festivals held during the year. It gives you a quick snapshot of all the fun you can have during the year.</span><br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych4.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MurasakiTych4.jpg" border="0" height="238" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;">The first picture is of the Miruku parade. The guy with the mask is the Bodhisattva of happiness, rich harvests, and prosperity. </span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;">The two female dancers in the middle pictures are performing some kind of harvest dance. They are holding farm tools and whistling and singing. The Okinawans are amazing whistlers.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;">The dancer on the right is performing the Juri Dance. The performers are holding two wooden pieces in each hand that they click together.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The dance was staged to bring auspicious conditions for a good harvest and profitable business. However, the Juri dance (Juri means prostitute in the Okinawan dialect) has not been performed since 1989, when a feminist group criticized the decadence of the event. They started performing again in 2001. <a href="http://www.japanupdate.com/archive/index.php?id=2059">Source</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych3.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MurasakiTych3.jpg" border="0" height="159" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"><br />The picture on the right shows the royal party who watch over the festivities. I love the sheer orange kimono that the </span>Empress<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 17px;"> is wearing.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 17px;">The next two pictures show the Shi Shi Lion and his master the Kijimuna. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Legend has it the Shi Shi lion lived on a mountain in what is now Uruma City, and that they were instrumental in keeping devils away and protecting the community. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">The Shi-Shi-Mai(Lion dance) is known to have the power to ward off evil spirits and summon the god off harvest and wealth, bringing prosperity to the region, and the tradition has been passed for generations everywhere in Okinawa. <a href="http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/event/event_110900_shishi.html">Source</a></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 17px;">Tennyson did not enjoy the Shi Shi Lion getting that close. They are pretty cool costumes.</span><br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych5.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MurasakiTych5.jpg" border="0" height="427" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The two pictures on the left I believe show the performers performing the <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 38px;">Kachāshī </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 38px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Dance. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">In Okinawa, it is often a feature of celebrations such as weddings and victory festivities after Okinawan <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sumo" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0645ad; text-decoration: none;" title="Sumo">sumo</a> matches and public elections. Traditionally, the dance is accompanied by the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanshin" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0645ad; text-decoration: none;" title="Sanshin">sanshin</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drum" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0645ad; text-decoration: none;" title="Drum">drum</a>, and often punctuated with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf-whistling" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0645ad; text-decoration: none;" title="Wolf-whistling">finger whistling</a> called <i>yubi-bue</i> <span style="font-weight: normal;">(<span class="t_nihongo_kanji" lang="ja" xml:lang="ja">指笛</span><span class="t_nihongo_help noprint"><sup style="line-height: 1em;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Installing_Japanese_character_sets" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: initial; background-image: none; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0645ad; text-decoration: none;" title="Help:Installing Japanese character sets"><span class="t_nihongo_icon" style="color: #0000ee; font: normal normal bold 80%/normal sans-serif; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0.1em; padding-right: 0.1em; padding-top: 0px; text-decoration: none;">?</span></a></sup></span>)</span>. <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kach%C4%81sh%C4%AB">Source</a></span></div>
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The picture on the left is of two Kijimuna!</div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych6.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MurasakiTych6.jpg" border="0" height="427" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MurasakiTych6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 17px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 17px;">A few more pictures of the Juri Dance, the Shi Shi Lion and Kijimuna, and the Taiko Drummers (I have posted about them before).</span><br />
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</span><a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0209copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0209copy.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0209copy.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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<i>A street performer entertaining the girls.</i></div>
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**Note for our memory - Grahm decided to be very upset with everyone and would not get close enough to be a part of any of the pictures. I think he surprised my parents with how stubborn he can be.</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-22432015792644426162013-06-12T23:06:00.002-07:002013-06-12T23:06:46.010-07:00Photo Catch Up and a JokeJoke first:<br />
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40 Grahms = 1 Ton<br />
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He thinks that is so funny.<br />
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<i>Little Mommy</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/JudeSleeping_0004.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo JudeSleeping_0004.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/JudeSleeping_0004.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Time Outs are rough!</i></div>
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<i>That face makes me want to hug her so tight...</i></div>
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<i>...and kiss away all those tears.</i></div>
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<br />Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-79612014731389587182013-06-07T09:05:00.000-07:002013-06-07T09:05:01.737-07:00Ryukyu Mura Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We took my parents to visit a replica of an old Okinawan village. The mock village is called Ryukyu Mura. You can view several old homes that they have restored and relocated to this area. It lets you see what homes were like 100 years ago, how they cooked, how the rooms were divided up. It is really cool. There are several places to see and participate in Okinawa crafts - there is pottery, sugar extraction from sugar cane, and many more.<br />
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In the first picture Jayce, my Dad, and Jason are sitting on the edge of one of the historical homes. They were very open and simple (I wonder if it was easier to keep clean?). </div>
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The middle picture is of a Tatami Mat. I was surprised at how thick they are. These mats were made of a rice straw core and covered with a soft rush straw <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tatami">(wikipedia)</a>. These mats are still used today and are very expensive to replace. You never walk on a Tatami Mat with your shoes on.</div>
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The last picture is of a Banana Spider, pictures never do the beast justice. These things are the size of an adult male hand. They are fast and will bite, but not poisonous.</div>
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The top left is another picture of an historical home (and proof I was there). </div>
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The top right picture is of the famous Habu snakes. They fascinate my boys and creep me out. They are a deadly pit viper that is native to the island.</div>
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The bottom left picture is of Koi fish (Carp). It was crazy, all you had to do was walk near the edge and they thought you were going to feed them. They would go into a frenzy, literally swimming (climbing) over each other. We did feed them a few times, just so we could get pictures and video.</div>
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The bottom right is a picture of some yummy treats to purchase. It is pig face skin in case you could not tell. We thought the packaging made it even more appealing.</div>
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The top left picture is of a water buffalo. They use them to crush the sugar cane. I think that is the purpose of the wheel behind Jayce in the upper right photo.</div>
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Almost every where you go the Japanese provide photo ops like the ones in the bottom two photos. This one depicts the Kijimuna, tree spirits. There are several folktales about these mischievous spirits, here is a <a href="http://www.chicagookinawakenjinkai.com/Folklore%20Pages/Kijimuna.html">site that has several of them</a>. Jayce really likes them because of the red hair.</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-80569849325389732092013-06-01T08:01:00.002-07:002013-06-01T08:05:52.165-07:00Remembering the War cont.After we visited the Navy Underground Headquarters we headed to Peace Prayer Park. Jayce has been wanting to take us there to visit for awhile. Since the Underground Headquarters was exhibits and a tour, we wandered around the park grounds rather than head inside. We enjoyed the outdoor exhibits and beautiful park grounds and ended up missing the exhibits inside. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;">We only read a portion of the 240,000+ names of those who lost their lives during the Battle of Okinawa. The park grounds are very large and we didn't see all of it my any means. We obviously need to go back.</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><i>Enjoying the view.</i></span></div>
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<i>Walking around the grounds. A lot of the outdoor exhibits only had plaques with Japanese on them, so we probably missed a lot. (Tenny has her belly button).</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0239.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0239.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0239.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>The boys ran down a long flight of stairs and this statue was down there. </i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0242.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0242.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0242.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>There was an entrance to another underground military headquarters. This was not open to the public for touring, but Jason got a picture so we would know what was at the bottom of the stairs.</i></div>
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<i>Found a broomstick in this pavilion, so we rode around a bit waiting for them to come back up the stairs.</i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0236copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0236copy.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0236copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i>Grahm found a stick bug!</i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">The Basic Concept of the Okinawa Prefectural <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Peace</st1:placename> <st1:placename w:st="on">Memorial</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Museum</st1:placetype></st1:place></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333333; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 16px;">In late March 1945, a fierce battle such as has rarely been seen in history took place on these islands. The "Typhoon of Steel" that lasted for ninety days disfigured mountains, destroyed much of the cultural legacy, and claimed the precious lives of upward of 200,000 people. The Battle of Okinawa was the only ground fighting fought on Japanese soil and was also the largest-scale campaign of the Asia-Pacific War. Even countless Okinawan civilians were fully mobilized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333333; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 16px;">A significant aspect of the Battle of Okinawa was the great loss of civilian life. At more than 100,000 civilian losses far outnumbered the military death toll. Some were blown apart by shells, some finding themselves in a hopeless situation were driven to suicide, some died of starvation, some succumbed to malaria, while other fell victim to the retreating Japanese troops. Under the most desperate and unimaginable circumstances, Okinawans directly experienced the absurdity of war and atrocities it inevitably brings about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333333; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 16px;">This war experience is at the very core of what is popularly called the "Okinawan Heart," a resilient yet strong attitude to life that Okinawan people developed as they struggled against the pressures of many years of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:country-region w:st="on">U. S.</st1:country-region></st1:place> military control.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #333333; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 16px;">The "Okinawan Heart" is a human response that respects personal dignity above all else, rejects any acts related to war, and truly cherishes culture, which is a supreme expression of humanity. In order that we may mourn for those who perished during the war, pass on to future generations the historic lessons of the Battle of Okinawa, convey our message to the peoples of the world and thereby established, displaying the whole range of the individual war experiences of the people in this prefecture, the Okinawa Prefectural Peace Memorial Museum.<a href="http://www.peace-museum.pref.okinawa.jp/english/"> (LINK TO MUSEUM)</a></span></div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-26954189057257289112013-05-28T22:57:00.002-07:002013-05-28T22:58:07.978-07:00Jayce is Certified!Our Youth Center here in Okinawa is awesome. The director Mr. Rhinehart does amazing things for the kids. This past October he was able to provide a scuba certification class to the youth. Since Jason and I are now certified we jumped at the chances to allow Jayce that opportunity. He had to mow the lawn a few times and do some other chores to pay for half of the fee.<br />
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He had fun through the process. He was nervous for a few of the tasks (so was I). I think it was good that he was in the class without his parents, so he would tough it out through the scary parts. He did awesome and is now certified. He finished up his certification while my parents were visiting. Here are a few pictures of Jayce the Scuba Diver.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/JayceDivingCert1.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo JayceDivingCert1.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/JayceDivingCert1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Tired after the swim.</i></div>
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<i>The equipment is pretty heavy. At one of the dives Jason had to help Jayce out of the water, he was tired. This time he made it out on his own.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/JayceDivingCert2.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo JayceDivingCert2.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/JayceDivingCert2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>The jealous bystanders.</i></div>
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Looking at these pictures makes me want to dive. I really hope I can get in one or two more dives before we leave. I just need to find a willing babysitter to watch Jude near by so I can nurse before and after dives. Any locals interested?Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-239128574913663042013-05-22T05:45:00.000-07:002013-05-22T07:21:32.922-07:00A Day to Remember the Sacrifices<br />
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My parents arrived hours before a big typhoon had us locked down in our housing for more than a day. It was avery long and boring way to start off their trip to Japan. Unless winds moving cars around is exciting? After we were cleared to leave our house we headed out to see the damage done and we ended up at the seawall to check out the ocean and get the wiggles out. It was still very windy and the waves were crashing more than usual. Jason calls this our lion picture.</div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0255copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0255copy.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0255copy.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
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The next day we headed out to visit some of the historical sites. First we visited the Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters. </div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/NavyUnderground.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo NavyUnderground.jpg" border="0" height="339" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/NavyUnderground.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;"><i>Entrance to the Japanese Navy Underground Headquarters (photo from Okinawa Hai)</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #111111; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px;">Dug into a hillside outside of Naha city is one of the islands most somber reminders of the bloody Battle of Okinawa. In 1944, the Japanese Navy Corps of Engineers dug a 450 meter tunnel complex to serve as an underground headquarters. Towards the end of the battle, as things began to get hopeless, the commanding officer and 175 of his staff committed suicide in the tunnels. In 1970, most of the tunnels were restored and opened up for the public. <a href="http://okinawahai.com/2011/02/japanese-navy-underground-headquarters.html">(OKINAWAHAI)</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'MS Pゴシック', Osaka, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: 'MS Pゴシック', Osaka, 'ヒラギノ角ゴ Pro W3', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">The semi-circular tunnels hardened by post and concrete were 450 meter in length at that time. They served as underground headquarters to endure the American bombardment and long drawn out fighting and could sustain 4000 soldiers. After the war, tunnel remained untouched for many years. The remains of those who died were collected and a 300meter portion centered on the commander's office was renovated and opened to the public.<a href="http://www.okinawastory.jp/en/view/portal/0600007616/">(OKINAWA STORY)</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/NavyUnderground2.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo NavyUnderground2.jpg" border="0" height="419" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/NavyUnderground2.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Photo from Okinawa Hai</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0224copy.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0224copy.jpg" border="0" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/Edited%20photos/MomandDadVisit_0224copy.jpg" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>
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<i>Here we are descending into the tunnels.</i></div>
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It was cool to see some of the history of the war and very sad. This poor island went through a lot during the battle, it was pretty much decimated. The pictures and artifacts on display helped educate me on the battle and tore my heart. It is wonderful to see how the island and the people can recover from something like that. The Okinawans are very warm and kind to those of us visiting from the US. There are definitely those here that wish for the US to withdraw, but we have had a wonderful experience here. One of the best of my life. The human race is amazing when it chooses to be.</div>
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-575707298940751032013-05-17T03:05:00.001-07:002013-05-17T03:05:33.528-07:00A Long, Long Time AgoA long time ago (last year) my parents visited and we had lots of fun. Here is a re-cap of our adventure, so you can see all the cool things in Japan you are missing. One night we BBQ-ed at the beach and enjoyed the sunset. It was a perfect evening. The boys ran off to explore and we hung out by the water.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/MomandDadVisit_0178-2.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0178-2.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/MomandDadVisit_0178-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/MomandDadVisit_0158-1.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MomandDadVisit_0158-1.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/MomandDadVisit_0158-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0038.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo October2012MomandDad_0038.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0038.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0025.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo October2012MomandDad_0025.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0025.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0013.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo October2012MomandDad_0013.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0013.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0011.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo October2012MomandDad_0011.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2012October/Mom%20and%20Dad%20Visit/October2012MomandDad_0011.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-53436553132653930902013-05-15T07:59:00.000-07:002013-05-15T07:59:05.179-07:00Jude UpdateI thought I had better get some new pictures of Jude posted before Grandparents start calling!<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/ShellGatheringJudeFirstBeach_0007copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo ShellGatheringJudeFirstBeach_0007copy.jpg" border="0" height="476" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/ShellGatheringJudeFirstBeach_0007copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Just over a week old. First Outing to the Beach.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/DaddyJude_0002.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/FirstBath_0002.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo FirstBath_0002.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/FirstBath_0002.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<i>First Bath, just over 2 weeks old.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/SweetBaby_0002.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo SweetBaby_0002.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/SweetBaby_0002.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<i>2.5 weeks old.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/P1050408.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo P1050408.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/P1050408.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>About 1month old.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/DaddyJude_0002.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo DaddyJude_0002.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/DaddyJude_0002.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Almost 1 month old.</i></div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-15307907968209932802013-05-11T01:06:00.002-07:002013-05-11T01:06:58.730-07:00The Tambo Fest!<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/Mud_0091.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Mud_0091.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/Mud_0091.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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First of all, I am sorry I haven't posted much lately. I rarely have two free hands these days and our internet has been painfully slow. This post took me several days to get up!<br />
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Golden Week is the week where there are 4 national holidays, including Children's Day. Children's Day is to celebrate the happiness of children. It was originally Boy's Day and carp flags are traditionally flown throughout the week. <br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/MudTych4.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MudTych4.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/MudTych4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Jayce really got into it after a week start.</i></div>
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The Tambo Fest or Mud Festival was held during Golden Week. In Japanese Tambo means rice field. In the community of Kin a farmer allows his field to be used for the festivities. Basically the kids play in the mud, swing, slide, swim, whatever they can come up with. Jason hated every second of it, he later convinced the kids that there was manure of one kind or another in the mud. He told me it was a bad idea. I want to know what happened to my country boy - do you think he will still like country life?<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/MudTych2.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MudTych2.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/MudTych2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Charlotte was hesitant but jumped in and enjoyed gettin' muddy.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/MudTych3.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MudTych3.jpg" border="0" height="285" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/MudTych3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Grahm my usual wild one was hesitant, cold, and decidedly not in love with gettin' muddy.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/MudFestival_0115copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MudFestival_0115copy.jpg" border="0" height="476" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/MudFestival_0115copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Jason declared Tennyson the brightest because her toes were almost too muddy for her tastes.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/MudFestival_0118.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MudFestival_0118.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/MudFestival_0118.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<i>Muddy hair, the black moss was almost impossible to wash out. Several rounds of shampoo and more conditioner than normal to try and comb it all out with a little screaming for fun.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/Mud_0110copy.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Mud_0110copy.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/Mud_0110copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>As we were leaving we noticed these worms on Grahm's back. Gave Jason and I the heebee jeebees so bad we both took a shower too. My google research says they are blood worms - midge fly.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/MudFestival_0120.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo MudFestival_0120.jpg" border="0" height="511" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/MudFestival_0120.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>The muddy bunch and one vampire.</i></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013May/Mud_0117.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Mud_0117.jpg" border="0" height="480" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013May/Mud_0117.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>Trying to get clean enough to get into our awesome van - because it would be awful if it got dirty (just ask Jason. I only cared about the baby's car seat).</i></div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-28902753407296836912013-04-16T06:00:00.003-07:002013-04-16T06:00:35.943-07:00A week later!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here are a few pictures of Jude. They change so fast.<br />
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<a href="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Jude/1Week_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" photo 1Week_0006.jpg" border="0" height="428" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Jude/1Week_0006.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Jude/1Week_0013.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo 1Week_0013.jpg" border="0" height="640" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Jude/1Week_0013.jpg" width="428" /></a></div>
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<br a="" href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Jude/1Week_0006.jpg.html" target="_blank" />Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-22954313083870918952013-04-16T05:49:00.002-07:002013-04-16T05:49:55.800-07:00The good pictures of Jude<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-58086847692818041602013-04-16T04:27:00.001-07:002013-04-17T04:01:30.129-07:00Welcome Jude Kai Geary<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We recently welcomed baby Jude into the world. He came in to the world weighing 9 lbs 11.9 oz (picture for proof) and measuring 21.75 inches. We instantly fell in love with our sweet baby boy.<br />
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-49638552782744554562013-03-31T22:00:00.000-07:002013-03-31T22:00:02.459-07:00 My Birthday Celebration We celebrated <strike>my birthday </strike> I mean Jason's Birthday a few weeks ago. His birthday celebration involved steak, a massage and a movie. The best part about setting up a celebration like that, is you get to enjoy all of it!<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/2013March/Pedicure.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Pedicure.jpg" border="0" height="150" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/2013March/Pedicure.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<i>I'll leave it small, because... well... its feet.</i></div>
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I ended up with a pedicure! Jason had also rented a couple of movies for the weekend. However, as the parents of 4 we watch one when we can fit it in. So the night before his Birthday celebration we watched an action movie, we weren't sure how late we would be getting back the night I was taking him out. Well we got back early enough to watch a movie, so we watched Breaking Dawn Part II. So, probably not his ideal night - but I enjoyed it!!<br />
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Happy Birthday! You are one amazing husband and father. Thank you for all you do for us. I hope we helped you relax, even if it was only for an hour and an half. Love You.<br />
<br />Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-37997901433233488512013-03-27T04:26:00.000-07:002013-03-27T04:31:06.326-07:00Ichigo Daifuku - a tutorial<br />
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<i>This is my friend and her two Japanese neighbors who taught us how to make mochi. They were so sweet and their English is amazing, left me wishing my Japanese was better!</i></div>
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My latest Japanese favorite wagashi (Japanese confection made of mochi, azuki bean paste, and fruit) is Ichigo Daifuku. This is a strawberry stuffed mochi, and it is so yummy.<br />
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The first time I had Mochi (Rice Cake) I didn't really love it, it has a strange texture and flavor. Too much of a good thing, maybe. A rice cake is about the size of you palm and made entirely of mochi and might be flavored. Mochi has the consistency of a dough. However, when stuffed with sweet beans and strawberry it is super yummy.<br />
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There are lots of tutorials available on how to make Mochi, this is how I was taught. A friend arranged for her neighbors to teach a couple of us Mochi addicts how to make Ichigo Daifuku. We made about 30 that day. We made the mochi in 2 batches because if it cools you can't shape it or get it to stick around the strawberry.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ingredients: Makes 6</span> (I think a few more, these were a little big)<br />
Shiratamako (glutinous rice flour) 100g<br />
Sugar 20g<br />
Water 150cc<br />
Strawberry 6+<br />
Anko (sweet red bean paste) 30g/each *****I think 15g/each is better*****<br />
Katakuriko (potato starch) or Corn Starch for dusting <br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Shiratamako.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Shiratamako.jpg" border="0" height="320" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Shiratamako.jpg" width="214" /></a><a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Anko.jpg.html" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Anko.jpg" border="0" height="214" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Anko.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
On the left is a bag of Shiratamako. On the right is a bag of Anko, you can also get it in a can. I was told that the Anko in a can is wetter and harder to work with for mochi.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Directions:</span><br />
1. Preparation:<br />
Remove stem from strawberries. Wrap strawberry with Anko and round to make ball (you want the tip of the strawberry to peak through). Have some water in a bowl to use for your hands to keep things from being so sticky. If your hands are a bit damp the Anko doesn't stick to you as much.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/AnkoStrawberry.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Ankowrapping.jpg.html" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Ankowrapping.jpg" border="0" height="400" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Ankowrapping.jpg" width="266" /></a><img alt=" photo AnkoStrawberry.jpg" border="0" height="212" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/AnkoStrawberry.jpg" width="320" /></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Ankowrap.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Ankowrap.jpg" border="0" height="265" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Ankowrap.jpg" width="400" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/wrapped.jpg.html" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo wrapped.jpg" border="0" height="261" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/wrapped.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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2. Measure out dry ingredients. Put Shiratamako and Sugar in a heat resistant bowl and mix.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/measuremochi.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo measuremochi.jpg" border="0" height="347" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/measuremochi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/drymixing.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo drymixing.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/drymixing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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3. Pour water into the bowl, gradually. Mix until smooth.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/mixsmooth.jpg.html" style="display: inline !important; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo mixsmooth.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/mixsmooth.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Addwater.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=" photo Addwater.jpg" border="0" height="265" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/Addwater.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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4. Loosely cover with saran wrap. Put the bowl in the microwave and heat for 2 minutes and stir the dough. Heat the dough in microwave until the dough becomes clear (2 min - 1 min each time). Stir the mochi quickly. If you dip your spatula in water the mochi will not stick to it as much.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/cover.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo cover.jpg" border="0" height="266" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/cover.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the early stage of cooking, you can see how white the dough is.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/microwavestir.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo microwavestir.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/microwavestir.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is when the dough is done, you can see that is clearish compared to the previous picture. It does not turn completely clear.</div>
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5. Dust a flat pan, plate or table with some Katakuriko.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/dumponpowdered.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo dumponpowdered.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/dumponpowdered.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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6. Remove the hot mochi from the bowl to the dusted surface. The mochi is hot and sticky so be careful!! Dust the top of the mochi.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/powdertop.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo powdertop.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/powdertop.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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7. Dust hands with more Katakuriko and divide the mochi into 6 or more pieces. You can use a pastry scraper, they work great.<br />
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/dividemochi.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo dividemochi.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/dividemochi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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8. Make 6 flat and round mochi. Grab a piece and pat it out. Be sure to not get it too thin, especially in the center. </div>
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<a href="http://s886.photobucket.com/user/gearyfamof4/media/Ichigo%20Daifuku/flattenmochi.jpg.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo flattenmochi.jpg" border="0" height="267" src="http://i886.photobucket.com/albums/ac66/gearyfamof4/Ichigo%20Daifuku/flattenmochi.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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9. Wrap anko/strawberry in the mochi. Place the point of the strawberry down. Pinch closed and use Katakuriko to keep the mochi from sticking to you and to the container you are going to store it in. When you have it all wrapped up you kind of roll the mochi in your hands to smooth the outside and shape it nice.</div>
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Notes:<br />
I have made mochi several times now and I will tell you that volume measurements don't work as well. You can also use Mochiko flour - the recipe is a little different as is the flavor and texture. The differences are subtle, so most people wouldn't know the difference unless they have them side by side. Use good strawberries! You want to see a bit of pink peaking through the top of Ichigo Daifuku.<br />
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Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8946005283298109660.post-32937139379008441662013-03-18T04:58:00.001-07:002013-03-18T04:58:32.045-07:00Has Japan Changed My Taste Buds?I am beginning to wonder if my short 3 years in Japan has changed my taste buds. A fact that my 3 sisters kept reminding me of during their visit a few weeks ago.<br />
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I like mochi, enough to figure out how I am going to have fresh mochi in the states. A tutorial on ichigo daifuku is in the works.<br />
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The fact that I am starting to enjoy mochi (at first I was not a huge fan) does not in itself cause me to wonder. It is the fact that the past few weeks, I have been wishing for more of these.<br />
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These are sugared beans. They are the size of large Lima beans. A friend found them in mainland and brought some for me to enjoy. We joked that this was the ultimate hippie food. Could you imagine a cupcake topped with one of these? They were that big - a cupcake topper. But, I did enjoy eating them. Anything with sugar for me!!</div>
Micah Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08218659466954676727noreply@blogger.com0