Greetings fellow aliens, Namaste to All

2012-01-25T05:40:00.001-08:00

G`day All,

I am currently on a cattle ranch where the owner practices holistic management using no violence with the animals and no chemicals or fertilizers on the plants. Random impact grazing would be another term for it. It is quite the science.

A rainbow showed up on the morning of our departure.

A good omen.

Herding the cattle.

This not a "running of the bulls" scene. It is an "I am feeling very lazy today. It is too hot for us to move ALL the way over there to graze. (Really not that far!) I think I will stay in the shade."

Oh no you won't. lol. The grass truly IS greener in the other paddock. You'll see.
And they did. lol.

There are large geodes and crystals all over, including LARGE statues of Goddesses (mostly Tara), and are very in tune with nature (of course! They farm... lol). There is a wonderful spiritual energy that runs deeply here.

The owner is a wonderful man with genuine kindness, intelligence and wisdom. He strives to make your experience here beautiful and goes out of his way to help you appreciate the land, understand it better and make your stay a delight. I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to be welcomed into his home and learn about this place. It's just incredible.

He even gave me my first motorcycle lesson the other day. Yeah... I'm going to have to practice. A lot. lol.

Aren't these creatures just wonderful? Horses are lovely. Lovely, lovely.

It took a little bit of goading as Attila was worried the horses would kick or bite him. Well... he IS the tastier of the two of us.... (for those of you who know the "canible/deserted Island quip"... yeah...)

You should see the cows... they are so happy and healthy. You can tell they are well fed, nourished, loved and taken care of. They roam freely over the hills and meadows and frolic with the wild/free horses that are also roaming around freely here. There is even a one humped camel if you can believe it.

This is the one humped camel waiting to get brushed down.

The local beekeeper brought over a pale (no joke - a pale!) of the most delicious honey! Yum! There is also a lady who gets the locals pure, natural milk. (For those who enjoy dairy) No hormones, no antibiotics... nothing.

Last night was clear and I could see so many beautiful stars. I was sleeping in a cabin, (which should really be called a chalet as it is absolutely stunning and not rustic at all) on the top of the highest hill in the area.

This is Barney, the family's pet wallaby. He comes and goes as he pleases, he even has his favourite spot on the couch. Instead of a dog, there is wallaby. He's great.

I spent many hours outside looking at the stars, in total awe and wonderment of mother nature. The moon was bright and full of love, frogs were singing their happy songs and the wildlife was hopping and flying by all around me. (Wallabies, eagles, goannas, water dragon lizards, hundreds of beautiful butterflies, tropical coloured parrots, owls and more).

We take the motorbikes down every few days to the "garden/orchard" where there are the most delicious peach and avocado trees. Do you know how expensive avocados and fresh peaches are? Yes, I know you do... even here they are at least a dollar a piece. But we just pick them right off the branch... it's fabulous. I loved that about Europe and Asia too.. how you can fruit ripened ON the tree and the flavour is just out of this world. It is incomparable to anything else.

I am here for two weeks doing a work exchange. I work (physical labour) on the ranch doing whatever they need, as well as pitch in for cooking and cleaning, afternoons I spend working on a website for them. That was what they requested from my particular set of skills. In exchange I am here for free to enjoy the natural surroundings, learning whatever I can/am interested in and spend time with the locals. Though mostly I spend my down time alone walking the hills and hanging out with the cows.

Mornings I get up early to walk amongst the hils and watch the sun rise. The air is fresh and clean, the skies are always doing something interesting with dancing clouds and it's just very peaceful... the vibe here is calm and relaxed. Often times I can`t help but feel like breaking out in song; "the hills are aliiiivvvvveeee... with the sounds of muuuuussiiiccc... la..la la la.... " Yes, I realize that sounds cheesy, but there it is. I love my morning walks in the hills. It's spectacular!

Though you DO have to stop on the ground while walking to scare the pythons away... and the brown snakes as they are deadly venomous. Many of the spiders are about the size of my palm but not very venomous, just unpleasant to be bitten... the little funnel spiders however, will kill you if you're not careful.

No shorts or open toed shoes here... no matter how hot it gets. Even a trip to the bathroom at night requires you to make noise. Most of us are trained to be as quiet as possible so as not to disturb any other sleeping folks... not here.. you HAVE to create vibrations so you don't get bitten by a surprised snake as you move about outside.

A few days ago we did a bush burning to get rid of the old, stale grass, naturally fertilize the ground and allow for fresh new grass to grow. The cows will enjoy it, but that was some intense heat generated.... I've never before seen hills alight with fire like that. It was... strange to think this was a deliberately man made fire.

"Baby won't you light my fire..."
Remember that song? We were singing it. lol

Kevin and I watching the fire burn over the hills.

When I saw this "ring of fire" I instantly thought of "Mordor" from Lord of the Rings.

The evening entertainment; Kevin and the Italian girls sat with their beers watching the fire run it's course while the sun went down. I took photos intermittently.

There is a lot of "common sense/old world wisdom" that locals are in tune with which most city folk (including me) would not think to do. Simple solutions to all sorts of isses that are free or inexpensive and work. Many variations on fencing and ways to lock gates for example. It took a few tries before I finally got the ones we frequent the most down. No need for fancy schmancy machinery and logistics. Just common sense in most cases.

I got a wonderful tour and lesson on crystals by Kevin, the owner of the ranch. He has quite a large collection. It was really lovely. One was even from Budapest.

Sunrise from the chalet at the top of the hill.

Sundown from the same spot. Notice the clouds above and the mist below.

The colours are gorgeous.

It`s been raining torrents for two days straight. We kept waiting for a wee break in the rain so we could go out and move the cattle to graze on a different paddock, but it never really happened. Finally we had to do it as it had been put off long enough. So Kevin and I put on some leather jackets and went out to move the mob (cattle) in pouring rain on the motorbike. Wow we were soaked... but it was pretty fantastic. All the rain had increased the water level in the creeks as well as the tide and riding through them was definitely not th same during a dry day! lol.

Every time I see the cattle start moving in their herd and pick up their pace I instantly think; "running of the bulls." Hey... you would too if you saw them. Today they were really running and nearly jumping to get across the rushing waters of the heightened creeks.

I just couldn't stop breaking out in smiles thinking how I never could have imagined the day I'd be riding around country hills on a motorcycle goading hundreds of cattle through the paddocks. lol. Me. The city girl. Yeah. I loved every minute of it. Ha!

Two weeks ago I was deep in the forest of a national park/nature reserve. Wallabies were eating their breakfast just a few feet away from me eating mine. lol. The wildlife is different, beautiful, interseting and often dangerous. There truly is a "wild feel" to this place and it forces you to respect it in ways most people are not accustomed to. It is not the same kind of "wilderness wild" you would find in Canada... but almost a Jurrasic Park type of 'wild' with things "lurking" all about you. lol.

Well, I had better put my long pants back on and hard shoes and socks... and get that walking stick out as I have to go out to the bathroom now to brush my teeth.... ahh... the production...... lol.

Lots of happy "moos" from the countryside.

Yvette

Australia week 1

2012-01-14T19:21:00.008-08:00

If I had the money, I would have purchased a pod for the plane ride over. You know the kind... where you can actually lie down and sleep. lol. Either that or work on those teleportation skills I've been meaning to get to.

I got to Sydney in the morning. Attila and his g/f Ashley met me at Central station. It's like Union station but significantly larger. He told me to meet him by the Christmas tree. I got some strange looks from the personnel when I asked where this supposed Christmas tree was located, but eventually I did find it and them.

The coastline around Pittwater. About two hours North of Sydney. This was a nature reserve.

We walked around for a few hours catching up and seeing some of the sites. Sydney Opera House (of course) the lovely Botanical Gardens, (also my favourite spot in the city thus far [Attila's too]) China town (I felt right at home) and some of the downtown core.

Australia is a very interesting mix of both East and West. You see tropical plants and wildlife all around you, along with pine trees and other North American species. One moment you get the sense you are in South East Asia, then Europe or North America.

Full moon from a lookout at Ku-Ring-Gai national park.

Attila got me a very refrehsing fruit juice to welcome me to OZ. It was indeed quite nice. After hanging out at the harbour for a while, I said goodbye to them and headed back to Central station to grab a bus North. I had booked a week at Ku-Ring-Gai National Park. I figured it would be good for me to have some down time closer to nature for a few days.

It took a little over two hours to get to Pittwater, which was the specific area in which I was staying within the park. Once you get off the bus, you then need to get on to a ferry to get you across as the place is only accessible via water.

A starfish by the beach.

This is the Wilunga trail and lookout. It is the highest point on the Island (4 hour walk) and allows you to see all around the Island.

I had arranged a work exchange with the owners of the place; I spent the mornings cleaning and helping them with chores in exchange for free accommodation. This was great because it was sunny all week and I was able to make good use of the facilities and area. The week was spent being both in and on the water and in the bush. I went kayaking, swimming, bushwalking (hiking in the wilderness) went on photography jaunts at all hours and spent many evenings chatting with other guests and learning about the surrounding foliage and wildlife.

About halfway through my week, I got invited to take part in a sailing race. This was really wonderful as I had never sailed before. The most important part of my job was to not get killed by getting hit in the head with the boom when the winds changed and the sails swapped from one side of the boat to the other. A French engineer, Charles and I were the only inexperienced sailers so the crew were great at explaining some of the terminology and various elements involved. Constantly checking where the wind was coming from and going, looking at the water conditions as well as where the other boats were at any given time, strategizing the best way to get ahead (and not capsizing) - wow... I have a whole new appreciation for this pastime.

I am sitting on the side of the boat weighing it down as it turns sharply during the race. It probably looks like I am sitting there leisurely relaxing. I am not. I am gripping the line to keep from flipping out the side with my legs in the ready position to scurry to the opposite side when the winds or direction changes again.

At a slightly more relaxed moment!

This was the view from our breakfast place in Pittwater. Those frangipanny flowers are very aromatic. The wallabies quite enjoyed coming by throughout the day to eat them.

Scenery from one of the bushwalks.

The coastline surrounding the Island is packed with boats of all kinds. It's quite lovely.

The wildlife is truly incredible to observe. Wallabies having breakfast just 10 feet away from where you are eating yours, parrots flying about with feathers ranging in colour from tropical green, red, yellow even white and black. You've got goannas (aka: big ass lizards) sitting out sunning themselves. They are about 3 feet long without the tail and about 5 feet long with.

Even with the sunblock (and frequent reapplication) and wearing longsleaves during the hottest part of the day, I still managed to get a tan. (*ahem/slight burn*)

After spending several minutes nibbling the frangipanny flowers, this wallaby bounded away.

Some of the guests included a Swedish diplomat, a lovely Spanish girl who made tortillas one night, a French engineer taking a years break from working in Switzerland, a Belgium lady who sold her house so she could spend the next 12 years travelling the world, many families from Sydney who come up to the place as a weekend retreat, as well as a couple where one was from Holland and the other a Canadian whose brother happens to be a very well known chef in Peterborough. What a small world. They invited me to come and visit them in the Blue Mountains when I return to Sydney. I think I will.

Kayaking for the first time in my life. Going out was great, but getting back was tough as the winds had picked up, the water was choppy and I was not nearly strong enough. lol. It took me nearly two hours on the return, yet only about 25 minutes to paddle to the little deserted beach you see below.

Friday I caught the ferry and bus back into Sydney where I met Attila once more. We spent a few hours catching up, then my friend Ruth came to meet us. Ruth and I met in Barcelona seven years ago and this is the first time we've seen each other in the flesh since that time. I am currently staying with her and her husband Carlos - who is a lovely man from Spain and also made us tortillas last night! Yum! We made a feast of a dinner together and spend that first friday night talking late into the night catching up and discussing all sorts of things. It's been great seeing her again.

On one of my bushwalks I had the company of some of the other guests. This spider was just slightly smaller than the size of my palm. (And I am not a petite gal with small hands!) I remarked at how large it was, only to be told that this was not the largest. Gee, I wonder what constitutes a large spider here?

Last night we had another dinner party this time inviting Attila and a friend of theirs. We all pitched in making different things to eat and had a good time chatting. Later I escorted Attila back to the station. Since the train wasn't coming for another 40 minutes, he suggested looking for an ice cream shop. It was nice, he invited me for gelato - it was the first sweet dessert-like item I've eaten since I got here.

Tomorrow morning bright and early we are catching the country train link to Taree. It's about 6 hours north of here. We are going to be working on a cattle ranch for a couple of weeks then meeting up in Sydney again afterwards.

Should be an interesting experience! I'll tell you all about it when I return.
Cheers from Australia.
YF

ps. Anyu, Apu, (mom, dad) see?! Attila and I have NOT been eaten by sharks. So things are looking good.

Toronto visit

2011-10-18T09:25:00.008-07:00

What a whirlwind visit! Wheh! I wish I could fit more in... but alas, t'was not possible. Fantastic to see friends and family. GG's organized a whole luncheon around my visit - Marika you are fabulous!

Thank you to Debbie who got me free passage on VIA between Toronto and Montreal. Collecting points really does add up. It was great to meet some of her family and put some faces to the names and stories she`s been telling me. They very generously let me stay overnight with them and regaled us all with song, stories, explanations of how to throw a boomerang properly, the basics of bee keeping and much more. Her uncle Wolf even serenaded our departure with some wonderful bag pipe music. What a talented family you have Debbie. It was a delightful visit.

Attila schemed with Shireen to arrange a surprise meeting my first night in. It was wonderful to see you babe! That gorgeous redish shawl you spent a month and half making is stunning! I can't believe you made that for me! And the bowl you made from last year's show is very happy to find it's brother plate. lol.

Fiona you threw the most wonderful dinner get together I could have asked for! The food was delicious and it was just great to see so many of my dear friends take time out of their busy lives (even with kids!) to come and visit.

Yay Fiona! You fed me! lol. Thank you! "Fed/nourished me" spiritually, emotionally, mentally. I have the most wonderful, down to earth and genuine friends. I'm very lucky. (The food was actually spectacular as well... but then, this is Fi we are talking about!)

Denise, we missed having you at your own birthday, but we knew you were there in spirit. Hope you got all our positive birthday wishes. Bowie and Hendrix were your proxy and made sure everyone had some of your cake.

Avi the new look suits you. Very excited about all the wonderful and positive updates. And very happy that you will be taking walks with me here in my back yard very soon. My wonderful niece Bowie definitely pulls off the princess look very nicely. She and Avi had a fabulous conversation about magic. I think he is now her new favourite person. lol.

Yuriko and Mohammad, baby Cameron is beautiful! Running a busy and successful restaurant on Queen street AND starting a family - wow - you guys don't kid around. lol. Effie and Senan... sounds like what you did too... everything seemed to happen the same year. I'm so glad you were able to make it down to visit. Baby Thomas is not so small a baby anymore, and Alene has just blossomed! Jenny and Jason, congrats on the newest addition to the family. Elizabeth is just beautiful and Katherine will no doubt be a wonderful older sister. We really MUST plot out that "farm" in Fiji sometime... lol.
Rob! How long has it been?!! Ages! Wonderful to finally catch up a bit, Bart rocks!

Shireen you are now a Nidan! Very, very proud of you.
All your hard work and discipline has paid off.

Senay, you look fabulous as usual and I felt totally pumped and uplifted by our conversation. Many good things coming to us moving forward... yesss! Loved your business idea - thanks so much for sharing it. I can't wait to move forward on that... and other PAX and Abraham related things.

Thank you to my mom who put up with me crashing at her place while I came and went, came and went non stop from the second I got in until I left. Great to spend some time with my family, even being able to go up to Rice lake and visit my grandparents. They are selling the cottage so it may very well be the last time I see the place.

My mom and Zserbo. I named her after one of my favourite Hungarian desserts, zserbo; it's a pastry with homemade apricot jam and freshly crushed walnuts in the middle. The top has a light layer of semi-sweet Belgian chocolate. Wow it's good!

My grandmother Katimama with Attila. Aka: the little one.

Yeah...6`7`` and he`s the `little one.` I`m only 6`, but the firstborn... therefore... the boss. lol.

My grandparents and I enjoying some together time.

My dad and I hanging out and getting some fresh air before returning to make a dent in the feast he prepared.

It was very nice to have felt so loved, appreciated and... well... loved. Already missing you all.... so come and visit me already! lol

Shireen visits

2011-10-18T09:23:00.013-07:00

Shireen and I spent a week travelling around Annapolis Royal and Peggy`s Cove in Nova Scotia. It was beautiful!

It was also the first time since we were kids that we were able to coordinate this much time together. What a great way of catching up!

We spent a lot of time photographing the different areas, knitting and chatting while sitting on those long bus rides. lol.

The B&B`s were great. People super friendly. In Annapolis Royal, a local couple even adopted us and drove us around to all the different wharfs and coves as we didn`t have a car. They then showed us their blueberry fields and let us pick to our heart`s content. (They farm blueberries and beans.) What nice folks!

There is a highly recommended graveyard tour in the area which was very well presented. Annapolis Royal has Canada`s oldest cemetery, and of course, Acadian`s have their roots in the area so it made for a really educational and interesting tour. Apparently the word `Cajun` is actually derived from `Acadian` as Cajuns are actually Acadians who made their way South.

Shireen showed me some new knitting techniques and I showed her the EU (Continental) way of knitting. She also gave me some great tips and advice for the camera I was using; a Canon 5D - a gift from her actually.

I made my first hat and shrug. The shrug ended up getting unravelled only to be started again last night because the dimensions ended up not working for me... ah well.. practice makes perfect. The hat worked out great however and my mom is now happily wearing it to keep warm.

Building "Bullwinkle." Oh yes... we did name our inukshuk after the cartoon character. We felt that "Rocky" was a little too obvious.

Shireen chilling on the boulders. This place sang to her soul. I hadn't seen her this peaceful in years.

We also did a little stop in Moncton, NB to go see Hopewell Cape/Rocks. Even the second time it was just as amazing to see. Luckily the weather was pretty good... lots of sun during most of the trip... we even got a tan!

Apparently Annapolis is quite warm in the winter... rarely ever snowing and it has the warmest waters North of the Carolinas... hmmmm... maybe I moved to the wrong place...? lol

Check out some of my photos!

Nova Scotia`s Peggys Cove | Make Your Own Book

Nova Scotia`s Annapolis Royal | Make Your Own Book

Avi visits

2011-10-18T09:22:00.006-07:00

Avi came to visit for a week. It was wonderful and so great to see him. We went to lovely Prince Edward Island for a couple of days. It was beautiful, especially the oceanside. P.E.I was really easy to drive around... nearly impossible to get lost... just pick a coastal road and eventually you'll come to the Confederation bridge. The longest bridge in the world crossing the Atlantic ocean and connects P.E.I to New Brunswick. We had a blast.

Debbie and I have been making bath bombs, flax filled pillows/meditation cushions, foot soaks, iron on transfers for funky T-shirt creations, cat treats and many more things. It's been an interesting experiment. This life is going to make a good screenplay some day. Totally bizarre in some respects and amusing in others.

Organic flax filled meditation cusions (or dream pillows) infused with lavender. I'm holding bags of flax, and have several cotton sheets to work with.

It's official; the sweatshop is open for business.

And after many hours and trial and error... with more error than not... we have the finished product. Aren't they cute? And I have to tell you, it feels really cooling and wonderful to put your head on one of these babies. The lavender mixed with the flax is just a fabulous combination.

New Brunswick week 7

2011-05-14T12:39:00.011-07:00

I find it pretty amusing living here. I burst out in laughter so often... I laughed out loud again while I was typing some of the stories below. This is just a small sampling... nearly every day something happens or someone does something that is so different or unexpected, yet totally delightful. I am surprised and amused on a fairly regular basis... I haven't literally burst out laughing full deep belly laughs till my eyes watered in years... and it happens a lot here. I am really learning to love this province. It's just so amusing! Utterly ridiculous and amusing. lol.

We got our wheatgrass kit in the mail and have started growing it. You'll see the photos on my multiply account. Our veggies have really started to grow too so I've repotted many in larger pots. Hence, we had to go out and get some topsoil and compost.

Now for those of you folk who are used to going to the nursery or mall or shop that sells plants, and grabbing a bag of soil... ha! Not here my friends! You get to "shovel your own!" I nearly burst out laughing in the store... I half expected to see chickens pecking the floor at that point.

Here are my two bags; one is topsoil the other manure.

I had looked everywhere for soil and compost, didn't find it so finally I went up to the cash and asked them where they kept it. The lady bent down and fumbled around for a bit, then got up and handed me the biggest shovel you ever saw! I WISH I had my camera! She then gave me two large, thick plastic bags and told me what route to take to the compost and soil pile "out back." .... I'll leave THAT description for another time.

There were many hills, each at least 20 feet up in the air, of various natural fertilzer (dung...sheep, chicken etc.) about 5 types of compost piles, a couple of varieties of top soil and about 5 different types of mulches. Some gravel piles too. If I had known that I would be "shoveling my own" I would have brought a camera and came on a warmer day. It was below zero, snowing, very windy and everything was frozen. I had to hack away at the pits to get anything loose enough for me to put into the bag. Thank God I was wearing jeans and sneakers. And thankfully Debbie was there like a good friend holding the bags open for me to put the stuff into... but mostly just quietly and patiently waiting for me to regain some semblance of control after yet another fit of laughter got a hold of me....lol.... I kept hearing Denise's voice in my mind saying "this is ridiculous... this is ridiculous" and I found myself laughing out loud thinking how funny this was... it WAS ridiculous and that made it even funnier somehow. Can't wait to go back...with a camera next time!

"Blue sky scenes" from the trails.

My wonderful mom drove all the way from Toronto to visit me, spend Easter weekend and a few days with me AND very kindly HAUL all my books here. THANK YOU Anyu!! You are amazing!

This isn't even the half of it...

I had made an Easter basket and filled it with brightly painted eggs and a little Easter bag surprise for her to keep her going on her trip back. We walked about 7-10k every day at least once, usually twice... she went out on her own too. Except for one day it rained pretty consistently.. but that didn't stop us. We also went to St. John to pick up more book shelves and other necessities. On the way we stopped to see the Reversing Falls which was interesting. Two diverging currents flowing into each other. You would not want to fall into that part of the ocean I can tell you.

One of the trails we walked daily.

Crossing one of the bridges on the St. John river.

In front of the Reversing Falls in St. John.

When we returned she doled out the instructions; "Yvette, build the shelves, put the books away, clean up and then clean some more. I'm going out for a walk, have it done by the time I get back." "Yes mom." lol. You don't mess with the moms.

Building yet another shelf... sheesh... I seem to be spending a lot of time in this position lately - with hammer and screwdriver in hand.

I did a little acupuncture for her while she was here as she managed to pull her right shoulder. That was good. It was healing pretty well by the time she left.

Being the efficient and fabulous mom that she is, she promptly got to work fixing all the mechanical issues we had in the house. The very day that she was to arrive, our bathroom sink clogged up. I mean, seriously clogged... we couldn't get any water to drain at all. We thought we had tried everything. Debbie even went out to grab some draino and we tried to manually clear out the pipes. Well, my mom came in, took one look, asked for the plunger and got to work. Within a few minutes she not only got it to work but to do so PERFECTLY. In fact, it ran better than before! I'm not surprised but definitely grateful. She then fixed the leak in the kitchen sink and a few other things.. but I'll stop there... you get the idea. Our house now runs even more smoothly and is more energy efficient since her visit. lol.

My mom fixing the leaky sinks in the house.

Best of all though, it was really, really good to see her. We had a lot of good laughs, talked over family stuff, made some decisions about other things and made plans for her to visit in the fall during the Blues and Jazz Festival. Already looking forward to it.

Senan would be happy to see the bike mechanics tool he gave me all those years ago making yet another appearance. I've made several adjustments on the bike to make it more comfy for me. I love that little blue multi-use tool set. I still remember that one week I had 12 (TWELVE!!!) flat tires. Three times during which I got caught in one of Toronto's famous summer torrential downpours. All three happened while riding over the Viaduct. One of those times was on my way to work. I showed up looking like a drowned rat, completely and utterly soaked with not just rain, but mud too, luckily, my boss, being the awesome guy that he is stuck my clothes in the laundry and lent me clean, dry, comfy ones to wear while mine dried.

This is a GREAT tool to have in your knapsack. Keep it with you at ALL times when riding around.

Speaking of bikes, I had a bit of an "awkward" moment the other night. I had my brand new amazing bike in my bedroom and was sitting in the living room on my computer looking at other bikes. I was apparently looking very excited because my roomate asked what it was I was looking at. When I told her she said I was just like the stereotype of the guy who had a wonderful girlfriend waiting in the bedroom while he was out here on his computer looking at other girls. So... I guess I was guilty of "bike porn." I could see her point... and for a moment I actually did feel a bit badly.

But not for long!!

Man oh man... that Norco Heart is soooo damn hot!!! You've got to see it! Any hotter and she'd be a motorcycle. I`ve got total bike envy... which started when Denise let me ride her bike once.... (this is all your fault Denise) - it's a DREAM bike.. wow... it's very nice.. what can I say.

So when I saw the Norco in the shop I spun right around and couldn't help but look her up and down. OMG that bike is hot! I had SUCH bike envy you wouldn't believe it. It's unusual for me because I don't normally feel attached to physical objects, but I will admit that in this case, I was hooked. I wanted one. I wanted one badly. Perhaps I'll buy one as a "guest bike" for when friends and family visit. Yeah.... a guest bike.... riiiighhttt. lol

Unfortunately though, it's not practical at all. It's a total vanity bike. I'll have to get gears on it and tires with treads. Otherwise it's pretty useless on the roads here. In the meantime, I really do like my Norco Vermont. It's a hybrid that rides smoothly both on and off trails. Still.... it's a good thing the Vermont is not the jealous type.... lol

"Green scenes" from the trails.

Bike locks are another matter entirely. If you want one... forget it. A decent one, anyhow. Can you believe no one sells proper bike locks here? I even looked at the motorcycle dealership but they didn't have anything that worked for a bicycle. No Kryptonites, no OnGuards, none of the usual steel cable etc. Just the usual Canadian tire 5 - 10$ locks. Even at the bike shop! I couldn't believe they didn't carry proper locks. I inquired and they said their locks were very good. I told them they weren't. My roomate Debbie got one of their locks and that very day it was snapped off and her bike stolen. She didn't have that bike for even one day. That was really too bad... it was an excellent mountain bike with great Shimano parts, shocks.. the works. Even though it's possible to twist through Kryptonites, it's still better to have a proper U lock and heavy cable. Even in the Maritimes bikes get stolen folks. Don't let the pretty smiles fool you. I've heard some say that my "uber careful/cynicalToronto ways" aren't needed here... ha!.... I beg to differ. At times. At least when it comes to bikes.

Effie and Denise you will no doubt be happy to hear that here it is illegal to ride a bike without a helmet, which is forcing me to finally do it. It's the first time in my life where I actually have to do it. I got one. I use it. Though EVERY time I go out I promptly forget it because I'm so unaccustomed to it. Probably by the third week of my having to go back to the house to get it (yet again) I'll start remembering to put it on before I leave with the bike. Yeah... that would help. lol I've noticed that everyone, and I mean everyone without fail always has a helmet. No exceptions. It's probably a good thing, but I have to say I don't really like it and wouldn't wear one unless I was going to get fined for not having it on.

...sigh... bells are not mandatory here but helmets are... I know it's for my own good, but honestly, I don't like it. For the same reason I always sparred without a helmet... just don't like the feeling.

Debbie and I are saving up for a sauna. We are getting a two person dry sauna. It will go in to the kitchen. The wheatgrass is in the kitchen too.

Wow! This place is really turning into a mini ashram or wholistic retreat centre! lol. I love it! Life is ridiculous so why not make it do the things that most delight you? And friends, I am delighted by this place over and over.

Last week I decided to try an experiement. Been wearing a watch on my left wrist since I was 13. I NEVER took it off except for when I was in the dojo or yoga studio. Then put it on promptly right after the class. When I`m at the ashram I`ve tried several times in the past to get away without having it... but to no avail.. within a couple of hours I was desperately searching for my watch. I don't want to be a slave to `time.`

So I figured I`d do a one week experiment now that I feel so different and find myself in different circumstances. I am pleased to say that my addiction to needing to know down to the second where `I stood` in terms of time and using it as a main reference point is pretty much gone.

By day three I was confident I could live without it. So I gave it to Debbie who will use the stopwatch on it to time her workouts. I love a life where I really don`t NEED to know what time it is, in fact, we really don`t need to know what day it is either because they are the same. Of course we generally do anyhow.. but Ì have to say it`s been nice to not feel shackled to any type of daytimer.

The first two days I did notice the usual lifting of my arm and twisting of my wrist forward to see what time it was... but then realized it was just a habbit... I didn`t actually need to know the time... so I made a concerted effort to break that habbit. I`m done my one week and will continue to refrain from wearing a watch. FREEDOM!! - from yet one more thing... oh soooo good!

Now I am looking closely at other habbits I have created, indulged in or slipped back into and will work on abolishing the one`s which no longer serve me. Lot`s of constant self reminders and being stringent.. but with good results.

I came across this solitary feather during my morning walk... still fresh with the morning dew. Really liked the visual of it against the rocky beach.

Attila is hanging with our cousin Agi in Germany. Lucky him. She is awesome! He's spending the weekend in Amsterdam, then next he goes to London, and then to Sweden where my uncle has some cash jobs lined up for him. Nice. Check out his blog... it`s pretty funny in places... especially the reference to Silence of the Lambs. http://canadianemuaroundtheworld.blogspot.com/

That kid has quite the sense of humour. We must be related.

New TG books are finally printed!!! FINALLY! So, they should be in stores again next week. I have a feeling they will be sold out again very soon. Luckily, the online version will be available in the coming weeks so people will be able to purchase the book via the internet too. That will be awesome.

http://www.torontograffiti.ca/

Now, I did promise my mom I`d do my level best to `fatten up` so I am off to buy more durian! Yum! Looooove LOVE durian.

Happy vibes and light from the ocean and forests of the East Coast.

There IS a god....

2011-03-20T08:33:00.001-07:00

....and his/her name is "durian." ~ Yeah!
Sadly, there is no China town near me, however, I did manage to stumble upon the one and only Asian supply shop in the city. They have a bit of everything... and... AND.... they have durian! Yesssssssss!!! Soooo pleased at this discovery! I splurged and got myself a little frozen treat for a "rainy day." .....ok, ok... who are we kidding..... that "rainy day" may happen at any moment! Any durian within site is in danger.... lol

Full Moon beauty

2011-03-20T08:28:00.001-07:00

Last night we had the most beautiful full moon. It was the closest it will get to our little planet this year. You can see her through the branches and the light reflecting off the river. Very powerful energy... I was up ALL night. Ka pow!

Turning a "new leaf"

2011-03-20T08:24:00.001-07:00

I've applied for a plot of land in the local community garden and have started growing veggies in preparation. These pics show just one of the mini greenhouses that now line the windows. Here are the baby broccoli coming up. The spinach, carrot, beets, cauliflower and basil have also started peeping through the earth. Can't wait to get out there and do some "meditative gardening."

Storytelling, fireplace magic and deep humanity

2009-04-01T07:04:00.002-07:00

IT'S SPRING!!! YAAAYYYYYY! Happy Spring everyone!

Last night I went to a Storytelling Festival. It was the PERFECT evening for a gemini. I was entertained, moved, excited, my imagination tingled and inspired. There were amazing storytellers, musicians and all manner of "human based community building" going on! Absolutely delightful! Thank you Siva for inviting me! OM OM!

Then, to make my evening even more complete, I went home to find Avi had lit the fireplace, it was dark, sensual, warm and inviting. (Big happy sighhhhhhh....ahhhhhhhh.......)

2005-11-03T08:25:00.003-08:00

Samadhi estates....one of the places Swami Vishnu lived

Yoga in Quebec

2005-11-03T08:19:00.002-08:00

Here I am in the Laurentian mountains, at the Sivananda ashram in Val Morin, Quebec. It is spectacularly beautiful, and soooo good to be out of the city.

Today I got up into headstand for the first time. It was wonderful! I felt such joy at doing it finally too. But they weren't kidding when they said that it works on the psychological component of fear. Not long afterwards I felt a lot of sadness and frustration....all the unhappy energy that I couldn't afford to allow myself to feel after breaking my knee. All the limits and restrictions imposed on my while I relearned to walk - I am not only still feeling these things, but feeling them quite strongly. Man, I really need to release this, it's not doing anything for me. I guess I have to keep doing the headstand then! lol

I am here for a month doing the TTC (teachers training program) and my main reason for being here is to heal my knee (both the physical as well as mental/emotional) as much as possible. Hopefully I can return to the Iai do training afterwards also. Well....we'll see how far along I have progressed in a months' time.
peace,
YF

2005-11-03T08:16:00.000-08:00

Eating breakfast out in the open, fresh air, forests and hills, organic food made with love and awareness....it was truly beautiful

2005-11-03T08:11:00.000-08:00

The peace plane museum...this is the plane that Swami Vishnu flew over troubled areas to deliver flowers and messages of peace

2005-11-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

It's october and I'm still walking around barefoot....good good..

2005-11-03T08:04:00.000-08:00

You vant pots...vee got pots...mua ha ha.. Louis and Kirsti doing karma yoga in the kitchen. My karma yoga was scrubbing the toilets....I now have the whole proecdure down to a science, I have a PH D in the art of toilet cleaning!

Yoga in Quebec

2005-11-03T07:48:00.010-08:00

I've been at the ashram for over a week now, and I've discovered that my knee and tendon isn't just badly inflammed, there is an absess developing as well. (Man, that's just one more thing that I SO don't need right now.) No wonder the sudden and intense burning pain.

Good thing I carry a medical kit and acupuncture needles wherever I go. Took a shower, made an incision, drained the area, cleaned and dressed the wound. Did some acupuncutre, rested a bit and am now trying not to aggravate the knee. Remember, this is the knee that I smashed to bits and pieces and spent the better part of a year undergoing surgeries and then relearning how to walk. Not pretty. But definately in the past and moving on. The problem is, is that everything we do at the ashram aggravates the damn thing! lol. Sitting meditation, intense poses, lots of weight on the knees, LOTS of walking, hiking etc. I don't want to let it bother me, but does bother me. I don't like being limited by the body...I have great will power, but sometimes, the body just isn't....ah..."there yet."

I am very determined to find perfect balance in Scorpion. (Vrichikasana) I practice constantly.

Prahlada, the head instructor, likes to `help` - then make fun and attempt to `goad` me into even more `fun` challenges. He`s such a rajasic Pitta. People, do NOT play volleyball with him unless you are willing to seriously `bring it.`

There are lots of interesting things to learn... it's like being in class all day, but it's sooooo good for you, and besides, I consider it fun. It's the type of challenge that I enjoy - plus, this whole month I am not in Toronto, therefore, technically, I consider myself on vacation. Any time spent outside of Toronto is vacation time in my books.

I managed to get up to full headstand today, twice, though not for very long.
Everyday we sit for many hours on the floor, our asses hurt so much we can hardly sit down for dinner. I have taken to squatting during the meals. It's just like when I was training at the shaolin temple in China....squat..eat....be ready for anything...

I've also started sleeping on my side or belly due to the discomfort of my behind....it turns out nearly everyone else in the program is experiencing the same phenomenon. Of course, bending your knees hurt just as much as keeping them straight for any length of time. They feel stretched, strained, pulled and abused beyond what you think you can endure....every morning I think, oh god....another 8 hours of sitting with my legs crossed..... Ah well, transformation is never really easy.

If I was into acrobatic kung fu, I could make it look really good.

We get up at 5am every day. This is the easiest part of the whole program for me. Staying up is the difficult part. The 30 of us in the course really bonded... when you've cried, laughed, screamed, sung in front of everyone (by yourself - and I'm not a karaoke type of gal) have hearty discussions about your latest bowl movement and decided to divorce your husband/leave your girlfriend, change your life etc....you can't help but feel close.

Ok ok....I have Sanskrit prayers to memorize....gotta go
peace,
YF

Our first yoga class was done to the rising sun in the morning. Simply spectacular.

Early morning meditation on boulders in special areas deep in the forest, vibrating with high frequency energy. Highly nourishing. And damn cold.

2005-11-03T07:39:00.000-08:00

...when not pulling catheters out my nose, I like to hang out near tridents...

2005-11-03T07:37:00.001-08:00

Kirsti's hamstrings haven't felt this good in years!

2005-11-03T07:34:00.000-08:00

On the way to the temple for another puja ceremony

2005-11-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

Uma demonstrating while Shambu tells us a story....."uh...Shambu, can I get down now?"

Yoga in Quebec

2005-11-03T07:06:00.002-08:00

On Wednesday we practiced Kriyas, or cleansing techniques. It was all very comical, actually, and I too would have been laughing had it not been for the fact that I too was in line with everyone else throwing up. (That's therapeutic vomiting you non-kriya people!)

No wonder all the flowers surrounding the pool area are all so pretty, they're constantly getting "watered." Apparently this is where all the kriya lessons take place, so this area has a rich history of being used as the main spot for the purgation of one's insides.

Well, no one will ever go barefoot in the pool area ever again, that's for sure!

I never thought I'd say this, but it turns out that diarrhea is your friend. There are two reasons for this;
1. after a strict change in diet, most people in the program had severe (and I mean SEVERE *ahem*) constipation for over a week. Any one of those poor folks would have welcomed the "urge" to go. You know, the funny thing was that pretty much every one finally felt like going about 8-10 days into the program, but unfortunately, the ashram had run low on toilet paper at about the same time....man, you never saw so many people hoarding tissue in your life! Sneaking off in the middle of the night....taking the car into town to buy tissue and toilet paper...half the ashram was in town on "reconnaisance missions..."
2. One of only three possible and viable excuses to get you out of a class if you desperately need the rest. The other two things being illness and death - yours, of course! - And they do check.

I've wanted to learn how to do the scorpio asana for years. Soon, I will get it. The other day I fell out of the pose while Prahlad was helping me with it and developed a wicked bruise. I (of course) managed to hit that very same spot again today!....ahh...back to being black and blue.....now if only my hair matched..

In the morning it turned out that the parking lot was looted and my roomies' car stolen. They found it later that day, luckily it was in ok shape, but they stole her two mantra chanting CD's. Now here is the interesting part of that story;

My three roomates and I decide to go to town for some "provisions" - now this is the first time Debbie is driving her car since it was stolen a few days earlier....It is a beautiful sunny day...we role down all four windows and Debbie remarks how it is too bad the thieves took her CD's. She is about to turn on the radio when she notices there is a CD in the player...looks like the thieves left her a "gift." What the heck, she turns it on and blaring out of the four opened windows come intense, hardcore french rap! And it was sooooooo good.....all four of us were completely into it....except for the fact that right at that moment the swami walks by and stares at us in surprise! Well, it was good while it lasted anyhow!

Tonight we are observing silence. What bliss. Too bad it is only for a night. While at the ashram in BC several years ago, I would do a week of silence at a time, it is SUCH a great exercise. I highly recommend you try it at some point.
peace,
YF

2005-11-03T06:56:00.000-08:00

That's right people, you really are seeing what you think you're seeing....in the nose, and out the mouth. This is called sutra neti, one of the 6 cleansing techniques that all diligent yogis do! (brush the teeth, clean the nasal cavities....you're morning routine will never be the same again!)

2005-11-03T06:49:00.001-08:00

Prahlada was one whip cracking teacher who liked to keep us on our toes...you never knew what crazy thing he would get you to do next!

2005-11-03T06:46:00.002-08:00

Kirsti relaxing in the grass before class..."is that the bell?....no...it can't be....the grass is calling to me.....just..another.....five..minutes...."

I couldn't resist... Kirsti looked so relaxed and content lying in the grass. Wow.. this feels so incredibly good... I haven't done this since... well.. ever.

2005-11-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

Jovana enjoying some much needed time off

Quebec and Toronto

2005-11-03T06:08:00.008-08:00

So I am back in Toronto, and surprisingly, not too unhappy by this prospect. But things are falling into place.

The month of the TTC (teachers training course) in Quebec was a very good, purgative, occasionally cathartic, and joyful experience. Nothing like a little discomfort, misery, bliss, laughter, failures and successes to bring 30 strangers together.

The teachers we loved and admired. The view, the food, the air, the silent walks, the evening bonfires, chanting, meditation, the stargazing, the saturday night talent shows and company of those we shared this with is missed. It seems like a dream, as all such things do. Then again, according to vedanta, it IS a dream. So much for that! lol

I love crow variations... they make me feel like a kick-ass breakdancer! Kapow!

Happily, I have two others from the course here in Toronto with me. I've made arrangements for them to teach with me at the dojo and Scadding court.

So, some interesting observations:
I am ready to fully practice TCM, and acupuncture again. I did a fair bit of it at the ashram and it felt sooooo good to get back into that modality. I am looking forward to it.

After the advanced pranayama, my old dim mak elbow injury and broken right jupiter finger injury resurfaced. Neither of these injuries healed properly and I've always had trouble with them, but it's been over 15 years for both and I hadn't felt the intense soreness and discomfort since they were first injured. Especially the elbow, I was paralyzed for a month before it started to heal, and thus, bend....but only a little bit at a time, and man was it ever painful. Holy cow....don't ever get dim mak-ed people. It sucks.

These energy blocks never healed properly and the pranayama was finally getting to levels deep enough to address that. It was working. I felt really sore in these areas for about three days, then suddenly it was much better. The pranayama is REALLY cathartic - it altered the regular course of my menstrual cycle, my bp and normal body temperature.

There is a reason you are told not to mess with this stuff unless you have a good teacher or you really know what you are doing. It was due to intense, and I mean intense qi gong and pranayama exercises that I got into a bit of trouble in my early 20's - I basically had to "check out" and move to the mountains of BC and live with monks in utter silence for months on end to learn to "cool down" and regulate my body once more. It was the only time in my life where I was somewhat frightened that I had managed to do something to myself that I (possibly) couldn't get out of. Another term for what I experienced is known as the "kundalini syndrome' - if you don't take care of it, you can go insane, no joke. It's painful physically, and maddening mentally.

So, I am looking forward to doing the Sadhana intensive next year. (Basically TONS of pranayama, but you have teachers assigned to "watch" you and make sure you are maintaining mental stability. Not everyone finishes this course, now I know why...) It will clean up A LOT of stuck or blocked energy. If only two days of pranayama began the healing process of such old blockages and massive martial arts injuries, imagine what two weeks of day in and day out pranayama will do! Then again, I might become insane, apparently that is one of the possible side effects....a risk I am more than willing to take.

I left Val Morin at this time last week. It is a sunday afternoon. My journey is taking a turn and opening new doors....doors I want opened. So, I continue my training and work towards the next ego breaking, reality shattering, no sleep for four weeks ashram experience.
peace, Hari OM
YF

2005-11-03T05:58:00.002-08:00

Adi Jon (65 years old) doing headstand with feet in padmasana (on the roof of the lodge, no less) - you go my friend!

2005-11-03T05:54:00.001-08:00

The "puja pit" where we gave offerings of fruit and flowers during ceremonies - this particular one celebrated Lord Ganesha.

Europe 2005

2005-10-20T11:20:00.005-07:00

My return to Europe was a personal trip. There were some interesting moments though. London reminded me terribly of Toronto, so I got on the first plane out of there and landed in Edinburgh, Scotland. What an immensely wonderful surprise Scotland was. Travelled around the northern Highlands for a while. It was spectacular. Definately one place to see before you die. The Isle of Sky. I will say no more. Go there. Also checked out Northern and Southern Ireland. Absolutely gorgeous scenery... the history and tales of these two countries are incredible... and even more... there truly IS magic to be found if you look hard enough.

The famous ``hairy cows`` of Scotland

Writing on THE wall in Northern Ireland.

Joy and I didn't quite make it to the castle in time. Ireland has this very beautiful type of rainshower... it is wonderously sunny WHILE the sky drops rain pellets on you gently. It's hard to get mad when it feels like the skies are caressing you softly.

Harvesting peat.

Local ruins in Southern Ireland. While up here I could hear the "baaaaing" of the local sheep from the other side of the valley.

Northern Ireland. Very interesting geological fomations... the science behind it is good to know... however, the story/legend of how they "really" formed.... what with Patrick's undying love for Fiona... now THAT'S truly interesting! I love a good storyteller... and to my delight, I was awash with many beautiful and historic tales... it's a gemini's dream come true.

One of my last days in Scotland I met a woman from Amsterdam who was studying at the Edinburgh film school. She was on her way to Budapest to do a documentary. Within a week we were sipping tea in a downtown cafe in Budapest. (Since I too was on my way there)

Astrid and I in Budapest.

It worked out great because I met my fabulous roomate Kati through her, as well as helped her with the translations for her film. (Which is now showcasing at both the Berlin and Amsterdam film festivals btw) Astrid (the film director) was thinking of getting a tattoo, so I went with her to a great little studio in Budapest to translate.

One of several famous bridges spanning the Danube.

Locals from a nearby village in traditional costume, singing folk songs.

The folks there saw and loved my tattoo and asked if I would agree to be in the next issue of the Hungarian tattoo organizations' magazine. Hmmm..interesting I thought. Not at all creepy either, which is good. You can never be too careful in Budapest my friends.
If you do find yourselves in Hungary though, make sure you go to the Roman baths. They are divine.

One section of the grand Szecsenyi bathhouse in Budapest.

Bathhouses... mm mmm... what's not to love?

Ran around in Spain and Portugal for the next little bit. The problem was that Europe was going through a cold spell at the time, so nowhere was really very warm, which my Canadian bones were disappointed with. But ah well, there were many beautiful and wonderful people along the way.

Honestly, I have to tell you... I absolutely ADORE Spain. It's a feel good country. I returned three times I liked it so much. Malaga locals performing traditional songs.

Las Ramblas... the Yonge street of Barcelona.

Ahh... Barcelona...

Seriously... no Hungarians will EVER eat here. lol.

That's hilarious! If you are Hungarian and reading this... then you know why! Ha!

Hanging with the geese in the Gothic Quarter... one of my favourite places to chill out in Barcelona. Actually, I have many favourite places...

I'm sure you all know who is responsible for this...

Overlooking the land from the top of Ronda in the south.

Ronda is well worth the four hour drive from Grenada.

Historical, traditional and unique in many ways.

If you need a "pause," go there for a bit.

Unlike their North American cousins, folks here scratch text into the cacti.

I like it.

This was on the beach right in front of the restaurant and next to the ocean. The fishermen brough a pail of fresh fish every couple of hours, the "cook" skewered and smoked it right there, then a waiter from the restaurant came down to the sandy beach with a plate... and then took lunch/dinner to the customer sitting in the shade about 10 feet away. Now THAT'S both fresh AND local!

2004-11-03T18:29:00.001-08:00

A William Blake moment....just gaze off into the sunken leaves and catch some peace in the reflection. (Taken in Kyoto, Japan, just outside of the Ryoanji - famous rock garden)

China

2004-11-03T18:18:00.005-08:00

Hello Everyone,
I'm in China!

First stop was Shanghai. My uncle's friend, Bela, picked me up from the airport. They had booked an apartment for me at Mandarin City. It was really amazing, great facilities, full breakfast included, swimming pool etc. It was very close to all sorts of markets. He took me around to all the major sights, the "New/Old Shanghai City," Xintiandi road (wicked night life area) the Bund, the old, traditional part of Shanghai where the buildings are all built in a very traditional style. I went to a very famous market, but you know me, I hate to be hounded and surrounded by vendors trying to force their wares on me.

My God are they persistent. I left fairly quickly due to their aggressiveness. Normally, agressiveness alone would not deter me, but it ended up becoming a bit too much.

Yu Yuan garden was gorgeous. It was built by a man who wanted to give his parents a lovely place in which to retire. Very traditional, fish ponds, all sorts of rooms and antique items.

A few days ago I flew to Hong Kong to meet up with my martial arts group. I was quite happy to have found them at the airport with no problems. In Hong Kong we checked out the skyline from the top point of a mountain which is supposed to be very famous just for this one purpose.

The bus driver drove quite perilously around the curves and bends of the road down the mountain. There were no fences or guard rails to keep the bus from plumetting us to our deaths should the driver make an error. Ah....best not to think of such things...hmmm...perhaps I should not send this particular e-mail to my family. lol.

One of our drivers took us around the city to a lot of the sites. I went out to see the nightmarkets and got quite lost on the many, many, little side streets. I finally found my way back to the hotel after only about 40 minutes of racking my brain for landmarks to look out for. Well worthy the "wanderings" though.

Traditional tea offering for guests.

Local artisan showcasing his calliagraphy.

Making silk duvets in a Shanghai factory.

The shore line of HK is quite beautiful, who would have thought HK has so many Islands. It's almost tropical, actually. The day after tomorrow we are taking the hydrofoil across the Island to Maccau for a couple of days where the training begins. Tomorrow we have tai chi early in the morning in the park next to the hotel. That should make for a great start to the day.

Worshippers offering incence to appease the gods and ask for boons.

Damn that girl has a lot of incence sticks! She must need something baaaadddd.

Looks like my film ran out. That's right people... I also use film. I'm oldschool that way.

Folks out on the water in Beijing, enjoying their Sunday on the water and in the parks. The folks in the parks were off in little groups, some doing tai chi, some were laughing clubs, some playing MahJhong, some playing traditional instruments like the erhu. (my favourite Chinese string instrument)

Then we are off the see a buddha at one of the famous temples here, and then the beach for some relaxing and swimming. I'm happy to report that my knee is holding up, and I have three strong men and a woman (who I train with) who have all offered their backs for me to travel on if I start to feel really sore. (For those that don't know, I flew out to China just a couple of weeks after my last knee surgery and it is still a bit testy) Tomorrow, the hiking stick comes out though, My knee needs the break. Pride or no.

Ok, c'est tout pour maintenant, mes amis. I am thinking of you all, enjoy your significant lack of humidity (in Canada, that is)- oh yeah, I have to say, after doing Bikram's yoga in a 45 degree heated and humid room, the weather here does not bug me at all. It's nice to have the balminess.
much peace, joy and power to All, Yvette

China

2004-11-03T18:09:00.008-08:00

Hi Everyone,
Well, it's been an interesting few days. Let me just say that for all those people who like to joke about things like "getting taken to a little room with no witnesses in a foreign land at the border crossing"- it's not funny. Especially if it's You. (The following is a watered down version since my parents are reading this too.)

So there I was at the border coming from Hong Kong trying to get into Maccau. (For the record, I DID ask for a double entry visa, but the consulate in T.O said I didn't need one - ha ha - sarcastic "ha ha")

My whole group was at the final border check, and I give my passport to the official. He is taking waaaaaay too long and calls over the head official.

Giant urns in the Forbidden City.

They start going through all my papers, then the head person comes out and points to me, my passport and puts out one finger and says "only one, only one" - and shakes her head vigorously! Well, let me just say, that my heart just about sank to the bottom of my stomach at that point. They both start arguing with each other and me in Manadarin - well sheesh, that's not helpful! I don't speak Mandarin. I get the tour guide to come over and translate.

Apparently my visa is no good. I said a few pretty Hungarian words about the consulate in T.O. She and two armed guards took me away to get a new visa. Now, later on my group said that they couldn't hear what was going on, they just saw the body language and felt really really worried about what was happening - especially when I was taken away at gunpoint. From their point of view, all they saw was that it was taking too long, security was called over, and finally two armed guards took me away to a little room with no witnesses from which I did not emerge for a very long time. They had no idea what was going on. Of course it was all alright - as soon as I agreed to "pay" to get a"new visa." hardy har har....It all worked out though.

Two nights ago we went out to the summer palace and saw an amazing theatre performance with horses, flying martial artists combating in midair, half a dozen different styles of traditional dancing etc. It was truly beautiful.

Terracotta warriors prepared for battle in Xi'an province. I really liked Xi'an province. Many interesting archaeological sites, historical areas, cool air with many bamboo groves, less busy with a rather peaceful vibe.

Yesterday we were in Guangzou, - the birthplace (so to speak) of SARS. Ray, for some reason I think you would appreciate this part - at one point on our way to the restaurant, the guide said...."oh and by the way, you see this hospital to your right, yes, this was where the worlds' first SARS patient was taken." And of course our bus pulls in right next door. Starting from that meal, the number of vegetarians in our group rose significantly! No joke.

Trainee monks at the Northern Shaolin Temple giving a little performance. After we ate and drank and hung out with them. Good times. Especially after the 100 proof qi elixer I drank... I hadn't had any alcohol (not even a beer if you can believe it!) for about 8 years at that point... you can imagine how that went down. It did wonders for my qi, however. lol. I actually used to bartend at night in Toronto... imagine that... a bartender who didn`t drink. Ever.

Oh, and speaking about vegetarians, for a Buddhist country, it's actually very difficutlt to get a vegetarian meal. All our meals are preordered apparently, and even when we ask for rice or tofu, it's mixed with pork and ham bits. Finally, we figured out how to say in Manadarin what we want. It's actually becoming quite comical.

Last night on the way home, one of my companions gave me the most wonderful neck massage, man was it needed. Every day we go to a new province, new hotel new everything. We walk several kilometers a day, up and down stone steps, many times with our HEAVY luggage. All in preparation for tomorrow's training, apparently.

Up until now, we've been getting up at 4:30 - 5am for tai chi, qi gong, kung fu, and tomorrow we are starting full day training. Can't wait! Can't wait, can't wait!
Ok, I can wait until after I've slept more than four hours...lol

...and here I am NOT having slept more than four hours as desired.... lol. It's 4am and I am on my way out to meet with locals and practice some tai chi together.

This morning we flew from Guangzou to Xiamen and let me say, that so far, the hotels have been fantastic.That is the one and only thing that is consistently North American in standard. Boy do we all look forward to dropping our stuff at the five star (that's right folks, 5 star) hotel at night after 15 hours of walking around and training. Now that's not to say I expect or even want "North American" but a good bed and clean bathroom are always priceless treasures. Especially where one's sanity is concerned...

My new nickname is the "Task Master" because every night a bunch of us get together for some "extra"training - pushups situps, crunches, stretches etc. I keep time, counting, yelling, motivating the group to give it their all, not slack off etc. I'm quite good at it. I didn't teach at Northern Karate for all those years and not learn a thing or two about positive motivation!

At first I was called Mistress Farkas, then Mistress Drill Sargeant, now it's the Task Master. I think our group is becoming slightly masochistic, me, well, I've a bit of the sadistic happening too - well gawd, if you've been doing the crazy training we've been, you would be too! Ray, next time you have to do this trip. You'll surely derive some sick sense of satisfaction from the torture. We are off to the Southern Shaolin temple in a couple of days to train with the monks there....goodie goodie goodie...rats, my internet time is up....I'm wishing you all well, enjoy your summer, lots of happiness, peace and power to you all,
Yvette (Mistress Task Masta)
=====

China

2004-11-03T17:59:00.003-08:00

Hi Everyone,
This letter will be a short one. I just came back from the Southern Shaolin Temple in Fujian province, and I have to say it was the MOST incredible place we've been to yet. It was everything you see in the movies, and then some.

It's almost like a dream...

As we walked up the path to the main monastery, there were smaller stone and brick buildings with the sounds of kids training in one, and adults in another. "...step step kiai....step step aiiiia!" - all very rhythmic and timed perfectly.

Incense was perfuming the air, the sound of monks chanting from the head building was wafting through the trees. Of course many of these things are indeed done for tourists and donations, but they still live a pretty authentic life amidst the cell phones and busy outside world.

Finger tip qi gong.

However, a short walk up the path and you can no longer hear the cars, see the traffic, and all you see are the shots of monks training, meditating, praying, chanting, sparring, eating..etc....kind of like Jet Li's first couple of films from when he was 16 - 17 playing the monk.

The energy in the place was powerful. What a sense of history and "hard calm." It's the only way I can think of how to describe it. I know many of my friends who are Chinese are all probably shaking your heads, but for me who has been wanting to come here since I was about 4 or 5, it is incredible.

The head monk invited us all back this afternoon for training, so we'll be here a few more days...Ah....and the food! You haven't lived until you've eater here! The BEST vegetarian food I've ever had. Ever. In my entire life. As someone who studies Taoism, I could see that it was put together to give maximum nourishment. Pumpkin with the seeds (zinc -particularly good for men) lotus and taro (paticularly good for women, or yin energy) lots of beans, tofu, veggies (not steeped in oil) ohhh...it was such a delight! I must have looked like I was high when eating..... mmmm mmm

That's about it for the 5 star hotels, it's starting to get a bit "rugged" now. lol. Oh, apparently, one of the other black belts is uploading photos from the digital cameras of several students, try the site, I think it's now up: http://www.davebattlerphotography.ca/ That's it for now....The bus is pulling up to take us back to the Shaolin Temple for TRAINING!!! Yah! Ladies, (Fiona and Effie - you would LOVE this) lots of power to ya'll Yvette

2004-11-02T19:09:00.000-08:00

Definately one of my favourites...looking in on the world of geishas......who use $3000 cell phones!

2004-11-02T19:07:00.000-08:00

Prayer plaques at local shrine

2004-11-02T19:06:00.000-08:00

Miyajima tori just hours after the typhoon

China and Japan

2004-11-02T18:47:00.006-08:00

Hi Everyone,

I am now in Japan! Whew hoo!! But before I get into that, I'll backtrack to where I last left off.
Let us begin in North China.

So there we were at 10pm at the train station. All 40 plus people with all their luggage. This is the local train in a town that doesn't get many foreigners. Apparently, our presense freaked out the locals because they were so outraged that they tried to prevent us from boarding the train! They had to call out the guards to protect us from the mob! Can you believe it? I was there and I still kind of don't believe it.

Kung Fu school midway up Wudang.

Locks following you up part of the way to the top of Wudang.

Finally! I made it... busted knees and all... Ahhh.. I cannot describe the feeling of getting to the top, looking around and seeing clouds, mountain peaks here and there and being in such a sacred place. Meditating at the top (no guard rails folks so you had better not fall asleep! Ha!) of Wudang was one experience I've checked off my life's to do list. Surreal...

The locals tried to attack us and keep us from boarding. The atmosphere was pretty serious and stressful. At night, there were guards at either end of the platform to keep the locals on the trains alongside ours from entering. What a crazy night we had, not only that, but we only had a ten minute delay to get all of us and our suitcases off the train before it continued on.

It was pitch black, 2:30AM and we were all pretty stressed out and exhausted and on our toes for a possible attack.

Next we headed off to Henan province, Luo Yang city where the world famous and older Northern Shaolin Temple was.

IT was AMAZING! I won't get into it here, but suffice it to say that I was blown away. I have no words to describe how incredibly happy I was to walk the same grounds as those monks. I felt right at home, and in fact, this was the same place that I was planning to come to and train a number of years ago. I think I may still do that for a three to six month journey somewhere down the line. Once my knees are up to it perhaps.

Near the front gate of the Northern Shaolin Temple. Aren't you excited just looking at this picture.... don't you wish you could be there? I know you do. I know I do.

This is the original archway leading to the front gate of the Northern Shaolin Temple. It was one of the only parts of the original building which was not destroyed in the fire.

Inspired to do a little practice "out back" behind the main buildings of the Shaolin Temple.

Now here's a familiar site...

I'll skip ahead to Peking/Beijing where we got to say AT THE SAME HOTEL for three whole nights! What a treat! I actually got to unpack my bag. I hadn't seen the bottom of it for a month! It was lovely to just relax and do as we pleased. I treated myself to some German hazelnut spread (similar to Nutella) and ate it with some banannas - oh,....there is indeed a God, there is indeed a God - it felt SO good to eat something sweet with happy nostalgic qualities. hmmm.. yum yum.
Now back to Japan: so for all of you who know that Catholicism isn't the most popular religion in my vocabulary, will be quite surprised to find the following; I am currently living in a church! That's right, a church.

We're talking serious bible study christian church. They house the English teachers for an incredibly low rent price, and since I am a friend of a friend, they've offered a space for me too. Issn't that really kind of them? I thought so.

Originally I was going to stay with my friend Junko, but she recently found a new job that requires her to be out of the house pretty much all day, from 7 - 7pm. This place has more english speaking folks, an onsight laundry, free internet, a kitchen and clean bathrooms. So for now, it's better for me to stay here.
My first day here we went swimming to freshen off. That was very nice, even more so since it was incredibly humid that day. I am figuring out the train system, it's excellent, but this place is bloody expensive, makes me wish I had brought more things from China. My visa allows me to stay until November, but I may only be financially capable of staying until mid October. Then I head off to Hungary to visit my grandmother. Well, life always throws interesting twists our way, I'll see what actually transpires. This Sunday I will be introducing myself to the church community here....should be interesting for one more versed in Buddhism than Christianity.....ha ha..
good qi to all
Yvette

2004-11-02T18:47:00.000-08:00

...shall we see what's on the other side?.....oh look...it's a fake wedding!!

2004-11-02T18:44:00.000-08:00

Lanterns for the danjiri festival at night....the morbid come out to see who will get crushed at this years festival...

2004-11-02T18:43:00.002-08:00

Border at the rock garden in Kyoto...mmmm...it's all fun and meditation until someone gets hit on the head with a bamboo stick by the head monk.

Japan

2004-11-02T18:31:00.004-08:00

Hello Everyone,
It's been a while, I know...I know....For those of you new to this list, the 'Hello Fellow Aliens' is a title I usually give to long-winded emails of this nature. Please bare with me.

Right now I am in Hiroshima, Japan. It's the place where the world's first atom bomb was dropped. I've got to say, its pretty sombre (as it should be) - but amazingly, after only a few decades, this city is flourishing in a way one would not expect. It is refreshing and alive!

There is one area left which has been kept in it's original (semi-destroyed) condition to remind people of the devastation, and the need for peace and understanding between peoples. Very powerful. So, let's back up a bit...say.....two weeks.

Wow! I can't believe I've been here two weeks! Big difference from China in exactly the ways I expected. Rigidity, rules, sterility, expensive prices....however, it turns out that things are not as they may seem at first. The veneer is important, in terms of what people will think of you. You can, however, find reasonably priced items if you know where to look. (and what time of day)

I hardly believe how busy I've become. I am invited constantly for short homestays with families and friends of the English teachers here as a guest. Many times they ask me to come to their classes as a guest speaker and "chat." It's more interesting for both the students and instructor, plus its good for me because I meet so many new people.

As most of you know, I am interested in studying Iaido here sometime in the future when my knee heals up - the grandfather of one of the English students is an Iaido instructor, - that's great! They are trying to arrange for an introduction as we speak.

And if at all possible, I would be deeply honoured to have a chance to meet with and train with Oshita Sensei.

I've also visited several dojos in the Osaka area, mainly Kendo, Karate, and Judo. It's interesting, most Japanese have never even heard of Iaido. They know kendo, but not Iai - very few people actually know what it is, so the fact that one of the student's grandfather is a teacher is really amazing. i am very fortunate.

I've gone to Nara and fed deer. They actually roam around on the streets and are treated a bit like the cows in India, everyone dotes on them and pretty much lets them do as they please. They are very cute, but you know, there is only so much "cute" one can take before they try to take a lick of your ice cream!

I've also been to Miyajima (Japan's most famous Tori is there - you've seen it in all the pictures) however, it was badly damaged by the typhoon two day sago.

During the typhoon I was at Kansai airport trying to exchange money....(note to those who want to come to Japan ...only US cash and don't expect to use your visa card for cash advance - the systems don't read you card) This little surprise can throw a wrench in your travels - hence the reason I had to go all the way back to the airport.

I kept a strong pace at all the temple's, shrines, castles, hiking, mountains, moats, museums etc. I've seen in the last two weeks. It makes me think of China....it was nothing but go go go.....non-stop. I was going to rest the first week in Japan...but alas, 'twas not to be my fate. But that's ok. It's a spectacular part of the world and there are so many places to see and things to do.

Yesterday I experienced three earthquakes, two at night, and another several hours later in the early morning. I had to get up and keep the shelves in the room from falling over, it was about a 7 on the Richter Scale, which is actually quite big. The typhoon was interesting too....remember the typhoon scene in Karate Kid III (or was it II?) well, it was very much like that.

Umbrellas were useless, they were ripped right out of your hand. People were holding on to whatever they could to walk down the street. Most of the trains were cancelled and I had to start speaking Japanese to get directions back to the Church where I am staying. Thank goodness I've been taking lessons...growing up in a dojo helped too...I understand intermediate level Japanese - boy was I ever grateful for this at various times in furing my trip.

I am learning quite a bit more of the language since I have to practice a lot, which is great, but I am nowhere near proficient. When I return, I'll take more lessons.

The first week I was savagely attacked by mosquitos, ants and spiders, I looked like I had measles it was so bad. But I seem to have built up an immunity now, plus, after the typhoon, the bugs seem to have abated with their biting.

I've met some amazing folks at the church. Though I have a sneaking suspicion that part of the reason they are so nice is because they pity me and think I am destined to burn in Hell. I feel their intentions are positive and honourable and honestly, they are actually really wonderful people.

Tomorrow I am headed back to meet a friend in Kobe. Then on Saturday I am meeting another friend in Kyoto for a day of traditional Japan sightseeing. Much fun to be had! There is a place in Kyoto where you can pay to be made up like a traditional Maiko (Geisha in training) full kimono, make up and hair. I am considering it. Besides, when was the last time you saw a six foot Geisha with blue eyes?
great qi to everyone,
Yvette

2004-11-02T18:28:00.000-08:00

Remember to "cleanse" yourself physically and spiritually before entering the shrines or temples.

2004-11-02T18:26:00.000-08:00

Yen toss for the Buddha of good fortune, and no, you don't have to aim for the bowl.

2004-11-02T18:25:00.000-08:00

One of many castles complete with protective moat, somewhere in Ako, Japan

2004-11-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

Cherry trees in the beautiful Japanese gardens always seem to have their own spirit and character...

2004-11-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

Terracotta Warriors standing ready for battle in the next life...what an incredible energy that place had - the qi hit you right in the chest!

Japan

2004-11-02T18:10:00.004-08:00

Hi Everyone,
What a crazy week this has been.... jam packed with events and places and interesting surprises. So, one of the English teachers at this church is Bobby...she is one of the most incredible tour guides ever!

This girl really knows her stuff, and helped me co-ordinate some of this past weeks' activities.

At the beginning of the week, I went to Keiko-sans' house for a two day homestay. She is an amazing woman, just went back to university (she's in her late fourties) and is studying linguistics. English and French... it was good to see my 'oh so rusty French' get used finally.

A bunch of us had lunch at her house (she made an incredible Korean meal) and then we hung out and talked. The next day, bright and early at 6am we met for breakfast and strolled around beautiful parks afterwards.

The next day was when the typhoon hit. I went to the airport to exchange money. Three earthquakes, one Hirshima and Miyajima later I found myself waiting for a new friend at Namba train station. A rather large station where it can be quite difficult to meet a friend - especially one you've never seen before. But all is well since we found each other and headed off to Kyoto for the day.

This is Michiko, a friend of Rhonda's from when she was living in Japan and teaching English. We went to shrines, the golden temple, a famous rock garden, more temples.. all through the Gion district and saw many beautifuil maikos - I guess the geisha don't come out during the day, they are all sleeping off the fatigue from the previous nights 'activities...

Michiko was a great hostess, she is very interesting, for a Japanese lady she doesn't think or act like the Japanese. Very much her own person.

Guess what I found last night? An AMAZING breakdancing spot where people just showed up and danced. They even had a dance off between two groups - it was great! I grew up in Flemo in the 80's where it was all about the beat boxing, breakdancing and skateboarding, so I have a great love of the stuff....I was so excited to see such life here.

The dancers were fantastic, they did all sorts of spins, stunts, dives, etc. not much popping though. Oh how cool! I also managed to find some graffiti too. By the way, Toronto graff is INCREDIBLE and you should definitely make an effort to find it if you find yourself in that city. And can you believe we crashed a fake wedding? That's right, a fake shinto wedding. Bobby and I were visiting a shinto shrine and the building next door happened to have a wedding show starting in half an hour.

We walked in for a break and ended up getting free desserts, drinks, being seated (like a lady I might add, where the gentleman actually pulled the chair beneath me to 'seat me properly') - oh it was great.

The food layout, the costumes, the settings, everything was fabulous. We were treated like royalty. One of the coordinators took quite a bit of time to explain the details and meaning of various items, as well as helped us fill out the questionnaire at the end - it was all in Kanji, although Bobby could read most of it. (Very impressive I might add)

It turned out that this man was a seasoned surfer (he was exceedingly sweet to us) and he learned English by himself simply by talking to people in Hawaii during his surfing trips. I tell you, people can be so interesting and surprising. He was dressed head to toe in a beautiful tux and really knew the correct mannerisms for behaving like a gentleman.

Funny, I am the least likely of all my friends to get married, yet many times I have ended up(inadvertently and totally by accident) crashing weddings, fake weddings, finding myself at bridalshows thinking it was the carpentry show etc. Funny. Well, at least they're not baby showers! I remember the last time the bouquet toss somehow came straight for me, even though I was standing as far away from the other women as possible so as to avoid it! ha ha....
great qi to all,
YF

2004-11-02T18:09:00.000-08:00

Enter...the Forbidden City....

Japan

2004-11-02T17:45:00.004-08:00

Hi Everyone!
Actually, this is part B of the last letter...I forgot to mention a couple of things... probably not very relavent, but here it is.

Let's start with the supertoilets. I remember reading about them in the 90's. Maybe you do too. How the Japanese have invented these amazing toilets that do just about everything but make you breakfast in the morning. Well, apparently, they like to play tricks as well. Back in Hiroshima, my hotel had one that played music, warmed the seat, had several types of flushes and bidets.

Well, I asked for the bidet and nearly leapt off the seat with indignation. For a moment I had thought something had bitten me in the arse! Upon closer inspection I realized that the water pressure was set on very high and very cold! - Quite the shock when you aren't really expecting it. I could just hear the toilet laughing to itself thinking 'ahhh...you vant beeeeddaaayy? I veeel geeve you bidet! mua ha ha ha ha.....!!'

And..... the birth control issue.. Apparently, the pill has only recently become legal. That would not have been so bad except for the fact that condoms are frowned upon. Most people won't use them - apparently there is this idea that it's not 'samurai' (or natural) (whatever?!) - so one reason why statistically Japanese have a very low HIV count is twofold. One, people don't get tested, and two, those that do, and find themselves positive end up comitting suicide within the first year (80%) - to keep their family from the shame. Can you imagine, all this to 'save face?' Why not 'save your life' instead?

I have to agree that the only people I've seen buying condoms are the foreigners. I'm not usually one to judge, but get with the program!

Many of the young women and girls walk in very peculiar manner. Such that all I can think of when I see this is how much damage they are doing to themselves. Turning the feet in at an extreme angle while walking so as to appear coy. I can only imagine the extra pressure they are putting on all the wrong joints. Watching this makes me feel like seeing someone scratch their fingernails down the chalkboard.

I guess it is the doctor in me who is thinking of how much joint and back pain this will cause them in later years. Proper posture really is worth the effort in later years.

I went to visit some of my friend Elsa's students yesterday. (she teaches English) One of her students knows someone who teaches Iai-do. It was completely unexpected but his son actually came to her place to meet us! How wonderful! This is a totally different style from the one we practice in Toronto and the fact that he was willing to spend so much time talking with me was great. (Let me say that it was all through a translator - so it wasn't exactly the easiest chat -but worth it) He called his father and together we arranged a special class for me to come out and view, possibly even take part in. Excellent, excellent!!!

The reason this is so amazing is also because the day we are getting together is a national holiday, the Japanese rarely get holidays, and its practically unheard of to spend it with a total stranger. Also, for those of you that know of Oshita Sensei, there is a possibility that I may get a formal introduction next week....so things are definately looking up in that regard as well.

Coming back from our meeting with the iai instructor's son last night, we ran into some 'young men' at the station. Elsa knew one of them through her boyfriend. Turns out they are male prostitutes. This guy married his wife twice (they divorced, then married again!) and now they have a baby.

Intereseted in becoming a male prostitute in Japan? So the way it works is that there are about 10 young, well dressed, good looking chaps who each get a chopstickwith a number on it. Whoever picks the chopstick with the designated number on it for that hour has to go back to the bar they were assigned to that night and try to get 'lonely housewives, foreign women, and single girls out for 'fun' to come to the bar and drink while they chat them up. (I'll never look at chopsticks the same again.)

Somewhere (waaaayyy past my bedtime!) in a hidden alleyway outside the regular network of streets downtown.

Usually it ends there (according to them) but if they want more, then they don't or can't? refuse...) Anyhow, it was obvious they weren't enamoured with their professions, and they asked us not to mention it to anyone. Frankly, we were surprised they were so open with us.

One of them tried for quite some time to pick me up, apparently he wanted us to date, but I didn't get the impression that we'd be compatible. You know, when people think of the sex trade, they immediately think of the women. For a female to have sex for money, is illegal, however, if a male is a prostitute, it is looked upon as him servicing a 'lonely housewife' and nothing more, now isn't that interesting?

Interesting how some of the shops only seem to open at night. What a sensual experience, candle flames and lanterns, fresh sushi and incence wafting through the air and the sound of running water from a nearby canal make for a quintessential moment in Japan. The sound of water is never far away in this country. It is soothing and very Zen.

Twice now as I have been walking through the streets (especially in the downtown area) I've had some lovely lads come up to me and give me a small magazine filled with very sexy drawings and pictures of women. At first I thought they were advertising female prostitutes, this turned out not to be the case. It is a special magazine for the 'lonely housewife' who can choose from a wide selection of 'products' provided by young men. Totally legal. Well then, I guess it's a good thing I'm not a lonely woman! lol

The Yakuza dress overtly well, but I wonder though with all their tattoos where they go for their 'onsen' hot spring baths? Then again, they are Yakuza, they can probably take a lot of liberties in areas most of the rest of us cannot. I can't get in anywhere because they all think I am married to someone in the mob. (My left leg, right arm, neck and head DO NOT have vines tattooed on to them. All other areas however, do.) Oh, the stares I get when someone realizes that that tiny little thing peeking out of my shirt sleeve isn't a stain! When I went swimming, it was like Moses parting the red sea, people made space for me, let me tell you. Ah well, I'll go to the hot springs in Europe, they are more open about such things there.

The top three questions Japanese ask you is: Are you married? Do you have kids? What is your blood type. Be prepared. The correct answers are: Yes, three (or ONLY two/one and you must say this while shaking your head in shame) and A/B/O or whatever your blood happens to be.

I noticed for a long time that every morning I would wake up covered in bites. For those of you who don't like bugs, arachnids or the like, this may not be the best place for you. (Good thing such things don't bother me .) Those who came to China with me saw the cocharoaches in the trains...well, they were nothing. The roaches here are about 2-3 inches (not centimeters, inches!) long and fly. The spiders that eat them (must be big, huh...? ) are huge! They are like tarantulas but the legs are skinnier. Imagine living with that. Sweet dreams folks! No wonder I'm covered in bites every morning!

great qi to all. Yvette

2004-11-02T17:42:00.000-08:00

Protecting the temple from demons...

Japan

2004-10-25T15:46:00.006-07:00

I barely know where to start.....What a TREMENDOUS day I had tuesday!
Last Tuesday I met Oshita Sensei personally! Holy cow is he ever an AMAZING martial artist! I felt such elation and inspiration. I watched him for hours, his students for hours, talked with him for quite a while and actually got a personal invitation to come back and train with him - something quite rare, apparently. Even my new friend John who was the student that introduced me, expressed surprise and said he almost never invites anyone back after just one visit. Wooo - hoooo!!! Score one for the gaijin.

Oshita Sensei is an incredible martial artist and man. His humble nature and generous heart left me determined to work even more on refining my character, reducing my ego and becoming more gracious in spirit. Much, much respect to you Oshita Sensei.

Iai do practice at Oshita Sensei`s dojo.

That`s me sitting next to Oshita Sensei in the front.
I am incredibly grateful to have had this opportunity. Oshita Sensei and Haruna Sensei were the two masters of this art I had always wanted to meet; sadly, I had just missed Haruna Sensei as he died not long before I started, but to have a chance to meet with Oshita Sensei... I have no words to describe it. Many, many thanks to all the teachers who had helped me up to this point, and whose wisdom, no doubt I shall continue to be grateful to be the recipient of.

All the way home on the train I had this goofy grin on my face. The poor chap sitting in front of me started to get uncomfortable because I kept breaking out in these uncontrollable fits of smiles and head shaking fits.. I guess he was not quite sure what to make of this foreigner. lol.

I went to Miyamoto Musashi's garden which was supposedly the place he spent the remaining years of his life meditating...and where he died. (Musashi is considered Japan's greatest swordsman.) This was in a town called Ako, the whole town is one samurai statue after another. There is the grave of the 47 ronin. It is a replica of the one in Tokyo, instead of housing the bodies of the samurai, (as they have it in Tokyo) the gravesite in Ako houses their topknots/hair. (A samurai would never cut his hair, his top-knot was a very honourable part of his attire and person.) A great place and must-see for any martial artist in Japan.

One of three areas considered to have been the final meditation/resting place of Miyamoto Musashi.

At the grave of the 47 Ronin.

Then there was the time Michiko and I got caught in a torrential (and I mean torrential) downpour with our new friend Matthew, up in Nagoya. We spent the day together wondering around the city and checking out the local castle. My god Japan has a lot of castles, though once you've seen Himeji castle, you've pretty much seen it all. In Nagoya we ate this famous dish whose name I do not remember, it's basically bean and bean roasted over an open fire. In other words, tofu smeared in sweet miso paste, scewered and roasted. Very tasty indeed! Oishi! On the way back the heavens opened up and dumped a wicked rainshower on us. Of course we came back to the van and saw that the windows were open and the inside was quite wet. Duh.

One of the english teachers brought back a bunch of DVD's from the Philipines and we made some killer salsa to go with Spiderman 2, 13 Going on 30, Taking Lives (let me interject here to say that Angelina Jolie is absolutely stunning! What a gorgeous woman, oh....my....god. She is at the top of my "if I was a lesbian" list) and a bunch more X-Files in Japanese.

I went to get a Japanese massage and acupuncture treatment to see how the techniques differ. Now, I practice Chinese style acupuncture, and even though the Japanese is just as good, as a patient, I prefer Chinese. Japanese is very quick, and barely punctures the skin, Chinese tend to go deeper and keep the needles in for quite a while depending on many factors.

I have to tell you all how surprised I was to find powdered cardamom being sold at an amazingly low price in Japan. Cardamom is the second most expensive spice in the world following saffron! I bought about 20 bucks worth for only 345 yen! Holy cow! That's less than five bucks! I didn't buy much stuff for me, but the cardamom I had to have because it's bloody expensive back in Canada. (and almond chocolate milk just isn't the same without it)

Did you guys know that Kansai is sinking? It's the famous airport for which they actually built a small Island. Unfortunately the engineers miscalculated (grossly, I might add) the figures, and now the Island is sinking at such an amazing speed, that they will be lucky if the airport makes it to it's 20th year. So sad. They are building another one to replace Kansai.

Japan is wonderful and interesting, but all on the outside. Even the most natural looking rivers and forests are made out of concrete and only made to look natural. I remember the first week I was taking a hike near Osaka castle and I leaned against the wooden fence only to find that it was pure cement, just made to look like wood. That is what Japan is like. Lovely on the outside, but totally different than what it seems to be. The spirit of the people, their discipline, their honour systems.. wow... a very unique and beautiful people, the Japanese. It is no wonder their talents are known throughout the world.

Cleanse yourself (both spiritually and physically) before entering into any temple. Remember also to clean the laddle for the next person. In Japan, you must ALWAYS be thinking of someone other than yourself.

This one is for my brother Otti; I got invited to a bbq, and surprise surprise, it was out to a race track for motorcycles and dirtbikes! How interesting! The racers were dressed head to toe in replica formula one type clothes, wicked, wicked bikes and took jumps which looked quite high. It was great, and I found a pathway up a mountain where I could get a birds-eye view of the entire racecourse while sitting next to an abandoned buddha painting filled cave.

So bizarre, when you think about that and picture it.Our friends all placed quite well. I really wished I could experience the freedom of sitting on a bike again and riding fast....(...god how I love riding "em) but I didn't dare jiggle my knee around for fear of delaying the healing time. (you know, broken joints, they're more finicky than regular bones.) And besides, the faster I get back to Oshita sensei, the better.

A week ago I went around talking to swordsmiths and seeing the different style of swords, both blunt and sharp that one could have made....let me say how much effort it took for me not to openly drool....just looking at some of the incredible craftmanship made my eyes twinkle and my soul go "ohhhhhh..." It also inspired me to be a better martial artist. Very humbling, especially after talking with Oshita Sensei.

This is my sword. Isn't she beautiful? It was custom made for me by a master swordsmith I connected with in Kyoto, based on my measurments and preferences. Believe me, I've heard ALL the comments on the colour - white, so no need to leave any more. lol.

It took a year to forge, complete and ship back to Canada. I rarely say this about an object, but this is not "just" an object... it is infused with spirit. That's right... I'm going to use the "L" word. I Love my sword. Love it.

I made Hungarian style crepes and food for the girls in the Church who seemed to really enjoy it. I continue to enjoy this adventure... travelling around higher and higher levels of formality and diplomacy. I guess that's about it for now though.

Hey, it's tough trying to spin new tales of adventure, mischief and mayhem for ya'll every two weeks! A girl's gotta sleep you know!

love, peace, and damn good qi to All, Mistress Farkas
ps. So...uh.....is anyone throwing a good old fashioned masquerade/potluck party for hallowe'en? I might be in Canada briefly around Oct/Nov.

Japan and Canada

2004-10-25T15:42:00.003-07:00

Hello Everyone,
Well, the adventure is winding down for now....actually, it came to a rather abrupt and chilly halt when I stepped off the plane in Vancouver. I had a lovely breakfast in Japan in 35 degree heat earlier that day, and dinner in 12 degrees that same afternoon. I tell you, it's just not right. It's not.

My friends in Vancouver joke that I made a wuss of a Canadian since I could barely even take the autumn weather. haha...yeah..very funny. This is one of the reasons why I love Bikram's yoga so much, the room is heated to sauna levels....ohhhh...soooo...gooooooddd...

It was awesome to see some old friends in BC. It rained most days, but it was still good fun. The international film festivel happened to be on so I went and saw a Hungarian flick which was pretty good actually. It was called Kontroll. The translations weren't very good though, especially the swearing because Hungarian is a very detail oriented, metaphorical language, and even the best English translations fell short.

Last weekend there was even a Hungarian Festival. It was quite funny, friends kept pointing that I seemed to have brought the Hungarian flavour with me to BC during my stay. There was traditional dancing, food and happy, wild, carefree, gypsy violin music, ahhhh...wild violin music...much fun was had. I visited Victoria as well. It reminded me a lot of Halifax. It had everything you could possibly want in a city, with the smaller town feeling, the people seemed a lot happier and more relaxed as well, probably has a little something to do with the fact that they get nearly 50% less rain than Vancouver.

Before I left Japan, I managed to get out with some Japanese friends to karaoke. Avi my dear, you would have been so proud of me...I actually did a song...A Chilli Peppers song that no one else could rap as fast as I - so I ended up with it and I have to say it was pretty funny. The Japanese really, REALLY love their karaoke. Ok. That's it for now.
ps. damn it's cold in this country - and it's not even minus 30 yet!!
good qi to all,
YF

2004-07-21T06:05:00.000-07:00

The very talented artist Denise sharing her views on society and it's foolishness at the annual Outdoor Art Exhibition at Nathan Phillips Square. Ask Denise about her glass blowing art, upcoming shows and thoughts on life. You can reach her at denise.ing@utoronto.com

Congrats Denise and Joe!

2004-07-15T15:10:00.000-07:00

Well, congrats you guys! Frankly, it's about darned time you announced your engagement. Joe, I hope you know what you are getting yourself into - Denise is a wild, wild, child who likes to stun her victims, then attack at will while laughing at your predicament. Actually, as horroble as that sounds, the victim is usually quite happy because she makes such torture fun. Denise, I hope you know what you are getting yourself into - Joe is a wonderful, decent person who obviously cares about you - actually, I think it's a perfect match. And to think that the first six months were frought with such crazy ups and downs. All that hard work was worth it. Ok, now you guys know I expect you to name your first child after me right? - regardless of sex.
Congrats to you two, now remember, I'll be in the country in June, so you know, that's a good month to get married....(hint hint)

Toronto rocks in the summer!

2004-07-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

This has got to be one of the best weekends in this city. Not only is there the usual (and wonderful)harbourfront music, dance, and games, but the annual art show at Nathan Phillips Square is this weekend as well....and not to mention the fact that five full blocks on Yonge street are cordoned off for major festivities.
Denise is a fabulous if not slightly twisted and deranged glass artist who is showcasing some of her work at the Outdoor Art Show in the Square this weekend. I'll be sure to take some candid shots of her slacking off and stick 'em up on some godforsaken website only she would love. Kidding....she's too astute to slack off in public. Actually, I'm more likely to find her harrassing passerby, trying to convince them to perform a little song and dance...lol...
Judy may feel like saving a soul or two on our way down tomorrow. I can see her whip out her tarot deck, look deeply into your eyes and say, "did you have cheese for breakfast?" She has that lovely ability to put the most metaphysical in line with the mundane - who doesn't love that woman?!!
I'm leaving this fabulous city in a couple of weeks and heading out to China. Toronto absolutely rocks in the summer, it's the only time I actually enjoy living here. Yeeeeessss....spending the deep and cold winters abroad in warmer climates is going to do me soooooooo good.

2004-06-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

Serenity in the twilight hours of Asia

2004-06-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

The ancient stone cities of Thailand evoked a deep sense of awe, inner quiet and solitude

2004-06-28T10:45:00.000-07:00

Avi and I falling in love with Nova Scotia...we almost didn't make it back to Toronto!

Greetings fellow aliens

2004-06-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Interesting how during the year, you can never really find the time to see everyone you want to, or even find the people you've lost touch with. Of course, just moments away from getting on a plane, everyone, and I mean Everyone, finds YOU! Ah, the universe likes to play it's tricks...
So to my fellow aliens, live as though you won't see the beginning of the next day. Live fully, passionately, with awareness, compassion and sincerity. Hold nothing back.

The insanity begins...

2004-06-28T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well, actually it's continuing... my broken knee is now almost healed, and I am just about ready to hit YYZ and fly out of the country - again.
Off to the Shaolin temples (both north and south)to do some crazy training. Little worried about not being able to bend my knee much, but I am sure a little Bikram's yoga will help fix that, along with some acupuncture and serious focus.
For those of you interested in some wicked yoga (not for relaxation purposes, but glandular and organ health, strength, body sculpting and sheer will power training...) try one of Sasha's classes. The sign above the door aptly calls the studio "the torture chamber" - ahhhh......let the fetishes, inner turmoil and reality shattering begin...lol! Check it out: www.hotyoga.ca