Brrr

The weather turned today. It's warmed up a bit and the sun shone warmly for a few hours. I sat on the carpet basking in the sliver of sunlight this afternoon. I actually felt warm in my home for the first time in weeks.

This is my first winter in 14 years! I guess I did have one on my mission, though I was in southern Portugal. I'm not sure if that counts. It has been a LONG time since I've donned gloves and hats and even a coat. Lately, I felt like they're a permanent fixture. The first week was fun and novel. The novelty is over. We're ready for spring, ready for those hot summer days (which will come in full force in no time at all!).

Jesse and I have agreed that we never want to experience winter like this again. If we do, I'd insist on central heating, insulation, some electric blankets, and maybe even heated floors. I'm warming up just thinking of the list. What about a wood stove? Marshmallow anyone?

Watch Jesse Dive

I used to be super embarrassed how Jesse dumpster dives. It's in his blood. His Dad broke (or bruised, I'm not sure which) a rib dumpster diving. J's really proud of that fact. He's even taught M to look at the side of dumpsters for treasures. She'll tell you that's where she found her suitcase. He's found futons and blankets, pots and pans, dishes, even a Spider Man figurine (saving us at least $250). To say nothing of the stuff he found in California. I wouldn't even know where to start. Maybe with the wood he built our desk with, or the boxes we packed our things in, or the cool brown shirt that Brooke's brother is now wearing.

I decided that I would be much more embarrassed if we were dodging bill collectors, chronically borrowing money from relatives, or thousands of dollars in credit card debt. I will however, leave him to dive on his own. Especially in Japan. But I will eagerly await a look at his treasures when he comes home!

Statuary of Takao-San

Foo Dog

And Tengu

Cook's Illustrated video podcast

Everyone who loves Cook's Illustrated has got to check out their video podcast on itunes. Of course their website is fun as well. They're looking for people to test their recipes. Maybe when we get back, but in the meantime...Rena? Da? How about cooking for a good cause?

Takao-San

A mountain close to us, part of the quasi-national forest we hiked on Saturday. I love quasi-hiking with the family.

There were several temples on the mountain. G had to ring each bell on each of the 10+ shrines by wildly swinging the rope.

There was just a dusting of snow at the higher elevations. But it doesn't take much for the snow starved J and kids to make a snowman. It was mostly M's project, hence the proud look on her face.

So this hike was one of those death march/character building experiences for all. The kids whined, we didn't pack enough snacks, forgot to get hiking treats, crowded trails. But a few days distance with just pictures to remember it by and I'm almost ready to go again. It's great getting out of the city.

Setagaya Antique Fair

The RS went last week on a little excursion to the antiques fair. I didn't find any antiques, but I did find these:

A new apron for me. I think it's an apron dress, but not for me. I'm thinking of how I can alter the back . Now it's a full panel, but I think I'll make ties. It will have to wait some months for my sewing machine, though.
This is to tie around a kimono, but I just liked the fabric. I'll make a runner for a bookcase or small table.
And this is a kimono. I bought it for the fabric. I'm thinking of collecting a couple of kimonos to make a quilt with.

Fabric fun

Amy introduced me to fun Japanese fabrics. I paced myself and only bought 3 prints. I'm planning on making a few more trips to the fabric stores. I plan on getting some oilcloth that is simply delicious.
I'm thinking of making sundresses for the girls with the sleeping beauty fabric.
And what to do with these two? I can imagine making library bags, church bags, aprons... See. I have to go back for more now!