YaYa and PoPo's visit Part 2

Here are more pictures from YaYa and PoPo's visit.

Here is YaYa sitting next to a sleeping man on a park bench in Ueno Park.

Here is Husband, Sister, YaYa and PoPo standing in front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum in Ueno Park.

Here they are standing in front of some Torri gates near Ueno Park.

YaYa walking up stairs...SLOWWWWWWLLLLLLYYYYYY....

Here we are taking a taxi. (Since YaYa has a hard time walking for long periods of time, we had to take taxis a lot of the time.)

YaYa and PoPo's visit Part 1

Here are just a few pictures of YaYa and PoPo's visit to Japan. (They are still here and will leave on January 9th.)Sunday Sushi with YaYa, PoPo and Sister.

Sunday Sushi!

Menji Shrine near Harajuku.

YaYa and PoPo playing board games with Jude.

YaYa and Jude decorating gingerbread cookies for Santa Clause.

I'm another year older!

Well, my birthday isn't until 10:41 PM tonight, but WHATEVER!

I plan to party like a rock star tonight in Tokyo. Running Babe has created a fun evening of dinner, drinks, karaoke, and dancing. We plan to spend the next 2 nights in Tokyo having a good time. YaYa and PoPo will take care of the kiddos, so we can party like it's 1999.

We plan to party Japanese style. So, I will be wearing a blue jean mini skirt that barely covers my ass, along with blue glittery tights (it's colder than a witches nipple in a brass brazier), a purple and black sequined shirt, black glittery leg warmers (that's right, I said leg warmers...in Japan, anything goes!), brown 3 inch heeled ankle boots, and a pink and black wig. Why would I want to look so ridiculous on my birthday, you ask?? Why not?! I say in return. In Japan, fashion is much different. You can wear anything you want and no one cares. So, tonight I plan to do just that. I'm really excited about the leg warmers and pink wig. It should be awesome!

So, Happy Birthday to me!

Don' t worry, I'll take tons of pictures for your viewing pleasure. However, since we'll be gone a few nights, it might take a few days before I'm able to download.

Tomorrow is my birthday!

So, tomorrow I will officially be another year older. Wow! I'm still having my "year end crisis" that I typically have around my birthday. So, I made Husband go out and buy me a scale for my birthday. Yes, it was my idea. As mentioned before, my pants have been tight, and my current scale only shows a 2 pound increase, which I know can't be the case. So, Husband bought the new one for me, and sure enough it showed a whopping 4 pound increase. Somehow, though, I don't believe either scale. I believe I've added about 5-10 pounds, but the scales don't agree.

And, the next item I want for my birthday is a full length mirror. I want to see where the added fat has decided to bond on me. I know, I'm weird. My thought is this: if I see just how fat I am in the mirror, maybe I won't eat as much. This theory or idea seems to be working with the scale. I'm already down a few pounds. And, when I get the full length mirror, I'm sure I'll be horrified by the sight and stop eating such large, Sumo sized portions. So, wish me luck!

I know I seem overly consumed with being fat even though I have a normal BMI (body mass index), weight, still fit into a size 3/4, and can run 13.1 miles faster than ever. But, my clothes don't fit the same and I can no longer squeeze my fat ass into my size 2 jeans without causing bodily harm to myself. And, my waist is definitely thicker, and I don't like it. I don't feel comfortable in my clothes or my skin. So, I plan to start eating better and less. I'm only 4 foot 10 inches, but I eat the same amount as a grown man. So, I know the additional weight is self induced. I don't blame anyone except myself for shoveling in the extra calories that my small frame obviously doesn't need.

So, I hope my scale, mirror and tight clothes will be enough deterrent for me to stop feeding my fat face!

Wish me luck and Happy Birthday to me!

Christmas Cards

Thanks to all who sent us lovely holiday cards. We are so pleased to proudly display them. We especially love all the ones with photos on them. It makes us happy to see all of your smiling faces, mainly because we haven't seen your smiling faces in over a year now!

So, thanks for the greeting cards.

And, a special thanks to those of you who sent me birthday cards. I really appreciate it!

Gifts...

My guts are making really weird gurgling noises right now. I just ate half a gallon of home made salsa and chips. Now my stomach is on fire from the combination of spicy and acid from the tomatoes. Since I ran 9.2 miles this morning, I was craving something saltly. So, I decided to indulge in a little salsa and salty corn chips. And, well considering I don't do anything "small," I bit off more than I can chew, I mean digest. Granted, I'm exhausted. I've had a fun filled day of running, eating breakfast, chatting with BJ, downloading song from iTunes (I got an iPod for Christmas/my birthday), singing Karaoke, and watching Stuart Little 2. I'm beat, but my bubble guts are making too much noise for me to sleep. So, I'll show you what I got for Christmas/my birthday.

This is my newest toy. I didn't want to get an iPod because I'm kinda anti-establishment, and I hate the fact that Apple has kinda taken over the world with this, but I get tired of listening to music I don't know or don't like. So, for my birthday, Husband bought me an iPod Classic along with a $50 iTunes music card. So, we spent the last 24 hours downloading all kinds of obscure songs courtesy of iTunes.

This is my other gift. Nice, isn't it?! It's a new Coach purse in maroon--which is my favorite color! It looks fabulous with my new maroon scarf I bought for myself. The two go well together, and they will now be my signature look for winter...okay, I'm full of shit...I don't really have a "look." I just put on whatever I think looks cute and comfy. But now, I kinda have a look with my flashy purse and delicate scarf. Whatever!

So, those are my 2 big ticket items Husband bought for me this year. Keep in mind, I picked out both gifts, but Husband bought them. Husband is the kind of man that doesn't do gift giving very well. In fact, he never remembers any one's birthday. I have a calendar that I use to keep track of family members' birthdays. I used to rely on Husband, and that was a mistake. In fact, he even forgets to get his mother and sisters' cards for their birthdays and various holidays. I have become the official purchaser of gifts for everyone and everything. I don't mind, except when Husband complains about what I have bought. If I left it up to him, no one would get anything, not even a card. So, considering the man is the laziest gift giver I know, I find it necessary to state over and over what I want. I must instill it in his brain. It must be branded in his memory. And sometimes that doesn't even work. He doesn't really think about gift giving. He just stands there in the store like a deer in the headlights of an on coming car. It's weird how he just shuts down when it comes to giving gifts. I'm not sure if it's laziness, or a lack of caring, or the fear that he won't get the perfect gift. Whatever it is, I've gotten used to it. I just wish sometimes he would take the time and effort to pick out a great gift on his own. In his defense, last year he got me a brown and black Coach purse with a matching coin purse. It was the most thoughtful and wonderful present he had bought me in years. So, he doesn't completely suck in that department...he is good at picking out the perfect purse!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Okay, wait! After reading this post, I realize that I sound shallow and materialistic...and I'm not. I just wish Husband would put forth a little more effort when it comes to buying gifts. I don't mind picking out my own presents- then I get exactly what I want- but it would be nice to be surprised by his thoughtfulness. And, I don't need fancy crap. I'd be happy with a nice pair of running socks or perfume or even a movie that I love. Period.

Tokyo by storm!

So, we spent 3 days, 2 nights in Tokyo. We gave YaYa, PoPo, and Sister the whirlwind Tokyo Tour Weenie style! We tried to see as many things as possible, but YaYa slowed us down. As you know, YaYa has had a hip replacement and needs another one. She has trouble going up stairs and hills, so we had to walk REALLY freakin' slow for her. We knew she would be slow but not THAT slow. At one point during the trip, Jude screamed out, "YaYa needs wheels...that way she can go faster!"

So, we did the best we could.

In addition to YaYa being slow, PoPo and Sister require mass quantities of food to keep their dynamic systems functioning. So, we ate and ate and ate! Typically, Husband and I will get rice balls or small sandwiches while we are out and about, but that was not sufficient for PoPo and Sister. They required wholesome, large meals 3 times a day...something we are not accustomed to. So, needless to say, I felt the need to indulge with them, and now my pants are tight and my ass is fatter. WHATEVER!

Jude enjoyed spending time with his grandparents and aunt. We created fabulous memories that he will cherish forever.

So, over all our trip was slow and fattening, but enjoyable. I'm glad we got to share Tokyo with our family.

Sigh!

Okay, I have officially survived Christmas with the family in Japan! Praise Jesus!

Now that the presents have been opened and the turkey has been cooked, I can sit down for a little rest and relaxation. I can do what I enjoy most...blogging. I know, I'm pathetic! To think that sitting at the computer and typing my inner most thoughts is pleasurable is kinda absurd. Whatever! This is my world isn't it?!

So, I enjoy sitting here at my computer and writing about nothing. It's almost therapeutic. I like having a creative outlet for all the craziness in my head.

Now that there is a calmness back in my world, I can download pictures and write about my experiences over the last week or so.

So, get ready to get back into Weenie's World!

I kinda missed you!

:-)

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas! From my family to yours!

We are back from Tokyo. We got back yesterday afternoon. We have been busy making cookies for Santa, making treats for Santa's reindeers, wrapping gifts and preparing for today's lunch. So, forgive me for the short post. I must return to the kitchen to help YaYa.

So, Merry Christmas! I hope Santa brings you everything you desire!

Out of Pocket!

We will be gone the next couple of days. We are taking YaYa, PoPo, and Sister to Tokyo for sight seeing. We will be staying at our favorite Western hotel in Tokyo. And, I'm not taking my computer. So, expect a few days of silence. But, I will bring my camera and report back to you when we return. I will try to keep track of all our misadventures.

So, talk to you when we return!

I ran 13.1 miles yesterday!

Yesterday I ran a half marathon training run. I ran at 6 AM with my running club. It was the furthest distance I have attempted and completed since moving to Japan. It wasn't a race, but I was the only person in the group who had ever completed the distance before. I kept my group entertained, encouraged, hydrated, encouraged them to eat (sport jelly beans), and kept their pace between 9:30 and 10:40 per mile. We completed the distance in 2 hours and 16 minutes--one of my personal records or PR. Our average pace was about 10:19. We ran great considering most had never completed the distance before.

Since I'm training for Tokyo Marathon, I've managed to maintain my training schedule. I have even added an extra day of speed work to help increase my pace. Apparently, it seems to be helping. We ran our 13.1 miles at a faster pace than last week's 11 mile run. I was so happy to hear that. I was a little worried about the run, because I haven't been sleeping well since YaYa and PoPo came to visit. Husband and I have been demoted to an air mattress. As a result, we wake up tired and achy. But, it hasn't seemed to affected my runs.

This morning I woke up with no muscle soreness, no aching knees or feet, no anything. I feel great! In fact, I feel better after a 13 mile run than I do after a 5 or 6 mile run. I know that sounds weird to most, but I guess I'm just made to go long distances.

After the run, my lungs were a bit tight. No inhaler was needed, but I could hear a slight wheeze in my breathe. I think it was caused by our last two miles at a 9 minute pace. We also ran later in the morning, and the pollution was pretty bad yesterday (it hasn't rained since Wednesday).

I am so pleased with my running. I haven't walked or stopped on any long runs. I drink water and eat while running. (Yes, you must eat to run long and maintain your speed.) I can now tell my pace by my breath. It's amazing how far I have come in the last few weeks. My body has been good to me even though we've been adding distance and speed. My lungs have also been good. No inhalers needed in the last month or so. The only problems have been my sore feet. But, with the new shoes, they're getting better.

So, I'm ready! I'm ready for the Tokyo Marathon. I'm ready to run further. My mind is set and ready to go further, and I know my body will respond to the request.

I feel good..no great! I am excited, pleased, and looking forward to running longer distances. I know I can do it. In some sick, sadomasochistic way, I enjoy running long. It's part of me, and I look forward to it. It's a challenge I like to beat.

As a child, I never knew an asthmatic could do this. Now, I know anything is possible.

It's amazing what can be accomplished when you work hard!

I AM SO PISSED OFF!

Okay, to most this will seem insignificant, but to me it matters...so, I ordered about 150 photo greeting cards from Walgreen's.com. I created a cute photo card with 3 cute pictures of us in front of our pretty gold Christmas tree. I checked and rechecked the message I wrote on the bottom of the card. So, today, after 2 weeks of waiting for the cards, I finally received them. I opened up the box, and, to my surprise, my name is misspelled. That's right, Husband and I somehow over looked the misspelling of my name. If I lived in the states, this would be a non-issue. I would just go back and return them or get new one's printed in an hour. But, I can't freakin' do that! I live in freakin' Japan! So, I've got 150 stupid, fucking photo holiday cards that say Happy Holidays, From the Weenie Family, WeNIE, Husband and Jude. Okay, on the cards, my real name is missing one letter. I want to throw the damn cards out the window, because I'm aggravated that they aren't exactly as I had envisioned them. Husband and PoPo think I should just send them out because the pictures are cute, and they believe no one will even notice the misspelling. They believe people will just be happy to have 3 cute pictures us. However, I am OCD (obsessive compulsive), and I cannot send something out that has a spelling error. After all, I have a freakin' English degree and teach English. To me, there is no excuse for a misspelling, especially from me. I guess I hold myself to a higher standard.

During the creation of the cards, I asked Husband to help me proof read them. I am known for making silly errors and thought another set of fresh eyes would catch any mistakes I had made. Apparently, I was wrong. I'm not blaming Husband for my mistake. But, I'm just pissed that I made it in the first place. And now I have 150 misspelled holiday greeting cards in my possession.

So, I'm asking for your advice...what should I do??? I thought about putting a holiday sticker over the misspelling, but that looked ghetto. I thought about calling Walgreen's and asking for a re-do. But, even if I do that, the picture cards probably won't make it here until January, and then it will take another 2 weeks for you people to get them. So, what should I do? Would you mind a cute card of the Weenie Family with one letter missing from my name?? Would that bother you?? Would you be pleased to have cute pictures of us in front of our Christmas tree, even though my name is misspelled??

You decide and let me know, please! Your opinion matters to me!

Thanks so much!

They're Here!

YaYa and PoPo made it here safely last night. They were slightly dazed and confused (because of the long flight and time change), but okay. They were so glad to see us and to see Jude (which they call Chunky Monkey). They were amazed at how big Jude has gotten in the last 6 months. As you may recall, they were here in May for a short visit. We don't have too much planned for today. Since they've been awake since 2 AM Japan time, I think a nap will be in order later this afternoon. So, today we will stay close to home and meet Husband for lunch.

I sent Jude to school today so we can wrap presents. I need to start working on that. I've got a pile of crap, I mean gifts, waiting to be wrapped.

YaYa is already hard at work cleaning up the dishes from this morning's breakfast.

PoPo is perched on the couch watching useless Japanese television in hopes of catching information about the American Stock Market.

So, things are as they should be.

Holiday Card

BJ sent us her Christmas card she created from ElfYourself. It was so funny I nearly peed my pants. So, being a copy-cat, I created one, too. So, from our family to yours, Happy Holidays!

http://elfyourself.jibjab.com/view/ajtvnsQptfVQn7rrLdjo

Hee-Hee!!

Oh Crap! I'm stuck in my bra!

(This is the damn contraption that nearly ended my life today! They should put a warning label on these! It should read: Only attempt to remove if you are a contortionist or if you have assistance! It should have an emergency zip cord that you can pull in case of an emergency and you get suck it in!)

So, I recently bought a new jogging bra. The elastic in my old jogging bras was starting to get weak causing my droopy, banana boobs to bounce up and down and flap in the wind, like a dog running with long, floppy ears. And, well, after 11 miles of that, my banana boobs were a bit sore.

So, this morning I took out my new bra on it's maiden voyage. I ran a quick 4 miles on the track. We did intervals of 4 minutes fast and 2 minutes recovery. Whatever! So, I ran great considering I ran 11 miles on Sunday. No problems, and the bra worked well.

But, when I came home this morning at 6:15 AM, I needed to take a shower. Even though it was only 30 degrees Fahrenheit and my car was covered in ice, I was still sweating like a fat man eating pizza with tons of Jalapenos. So, I hopped into the restroom and stripped off my tights, long sleeved running shirt, and running jacket (I don't wear underwear when I run...that's just one more thing to cause chafing!). I tried to pull my new running bra over my shoulders and head, but it was wet and tight. I tried again and again. I could get it over my boobs, but it kept getting stuck on my shoulders. I finally managed to wiggle one arm free, and then I was stuck again- really stuck! I called for Husband, but he decided to vacuum this morning since YaYa and PoPo will be here in less than 36 hours, and he didn't hear my calls. And, Jude was asleep on my bed. I called Jude's name in hopes that he would get his father. Instead, he opened one eye. He saw me in the restroom stuck in my bra with one arm out and one arm in, and then he laughed. I begged him to get his dad, but he just kept saying, "I can't hear you, I can't hear you!"

So, I wiggled, squirmed, pulled, tugged, sashayed, and shimmied to get the damn bra off. After about 5 minute of acting like a contortionist, I finally freed myself from the soaking wet sports bra AKA the jaws of death. I felt relieved and exhausted after the bra came off. And, I was disappointed that my sweet son refused to help me. I should warn him that he might be getting a lump of coal from Santa this year since he didn't help his loving, sweet mother in her time of need!

So, my lesson for today is: only wear THAT jogging bra/jaws of death when Husband is home and able to assist with it's removal!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

T-minus 36 hours...

YaYa and PoPo will be here in about 36 hours. Watch out Japan! No good can come from 2 pepper bellied, retired, loud mouthed, bionic people invading your nation! (They are bionic because YaYa has had 2 hip replacements, and PoPo has had a shoulder replaced.)

I've been cleaning like mad for the last 2 days. I even scrubbed the shower and got rid of the soap scum residue and the reddish slime in the corner of the shower. Yuck!

But, today I will spend most of my day making fudge for my Japanese students. I plan to give them homemade fudge, popcorn bark (popcorn covered in melted chocolate), and chocolate candies for Christmas. So, I will be busy cooking and wrapping these homemade gifts in cellophane wrapping paper and ribbon. You can just call me the Brown Betty Crocker!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

I love running!

So, yesterday I ran 11 miles. It was the longest run I have attempted since moving to Japan over a year ago. I am proud to say that I ran the entire time! I did not walk one step! We finished in 1 hour and 57 minutes. It was a fabulous run. Long-legged-Lady and I chatted the whole time. The weather was cool and breezy. It had rained all morning long and stopped at 1 PM. Luckily, we didn't run until 2 PM. It was like the Lord stopped the rain just so we could go out and run 11 miles.

Before the run, I had bad mojo about the run, because Husband had attempted and completed 14 miles earlier in the morning, in the pouring rain. He came back home looking like death. Usually, Husband runs great, like a gazelle. He usually comes back home energized and happy about his run, but not yesterday. Yesterday, he looked whipped, tired, pissed off and like he needed an IV of fluids. After a few hours, he came back to life. So, I was really worried about my run. I was worried that I would get cold or too tired to complete the distance, but, luckily, none of that happened. Instead, I ran well...no, I ran great! Now, I know, without a doubt, that Tokyo Marathon is within my reach. I look forward to race day with a new sense of anticipation and certainty. I now know I can complete 26.2 miles on March 22, 2009!

Thank God for the brilliant, clear, brisk afternoon.

Our average pace was about 10 minutes and 37 seconds per mile, which isn't bad for a training run for a midget Mexican momma with asthma! Praise Jesus!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Voice Mail Message from Big D...

This is the voice mail message Big D left:



He began the message by singing...It's the most wonderful time of the year...he sang in a nice, clear, melodic voice. He continued the message by saying:



"Ya know the easiest way to go shopping at a Wal-mart? You drive through an Eskimo Hut and get yourself a double shot of something. You get about half-loaded. By the time you hit the Wal-mart, you don't care about the retards, the rednecks, the fat people...you just shop your ASS off. With that being said, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!"



It was a fabulous message. I kept playing it over and over laughing my ass off!



Thanks Big D!


By the way, an Eskimo Hut is where you get alcoholic beverages to go. It's a drive through convenience shop that sells alcohol through a drive through window. They have them in North Texas. Here is a link to their menu:
http://www.eskimohut.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=41&Itemid=55

"You said a naughty word, mommy!"

So, my little Jude is the most awesome child on the planet. I know it's my job to believe this and to convince others of this, but it is absolutely the truth--I promise.

So, the other day when I was driving in my banged up Honda Civic, I heard a silly song on the radio. I was waiting with anticipation for Britney Spears' new song Womanizer. (Yes, I will admit publicly that I like that song-- in fact, I love the song...it's catchy and has a catchy line...Womanizer, wo-wo-womanizer, your a wo-wo-womanizer...sorry for breaking out into song and dance, I just couldn't control myself.) The DJ on the radio had mentioned earlier he would be playing the song next, and I was looking forward to singing at the top of my lungs and performing a little Britney dance as I drove Jude home from the bus stop. So, when I heard a lame-o song come on next, I yelled, "Stupid song!" I was let down that I would not be hearing my new favorite song.

Jude heard me yell, and instantly replied, "Mommy, that's a naughty word!"

"Oh, shit, sorry baby, I didn't mean to say a naughty word," I replied back.

"Mommy, you just did it again!" he replied.

"Oh, crap, sorry sweetie, mommy screwed up," I told him.

"That's a naughty word, too, mommy!" he yelled back with frustration in his voice.

"Damn it, sorry sweetie, I'll try not to use naughty words again," I told him.

"Mommy, you just said another one!" the kiddo replied.

"Jesus Christ kid, I'm sorry!" I told him, knowing that I had just fucked up again!

"Mommy, it's not nice to say that, either!" he said.

"Okay, I'm sorry, I just won't talk...okay?!" I told him.

"Now, that's a good plan!" Jude replied.


We remained silent in the car until we reached the parking lot of our apartment.


Just another day in Weenie's World!

My feet smell like rotten cheese!

So, today I walked around in my Kenneth Cole, Mary Jane looking, black shoes. In my haste, I neglected to put on footies. As a result, I can smell my disgusting feet as I sit at the computer. Sheesh! My feet smell like stinky butt cheese after a 15 mile run. The stench is totally grossing me out. In fact, I must leave you now, because I have to go wash the nastiness off my feet.

Wish me luck! Gambatte (that's Japanese for good luck!)

I love MySpace!

Okay, being here in Japan, I miss out on running into old friends here and there. Back in Texas, I would run into people all the time from my past. I would see them at the grocery store, at parties, out to dinner, and so on. But, here in Japan, that doesn't happen for obvious reasons.

So, I've resorted to stalking people courtesy of MySpace. I love it! I get to check out their MySpace page, photos, and catch up sorda, without them ever knowing I was there. That is, if they have their space public. So, I love MySpace! It's a stalker's paradise!

Reflecting back on 2008

Wow, what a year!

This year has been unbelievable! I have been to the most amazing places, met amazing people, been harassed by the police, fell deeper in love with Husband, realized just how blessed I am, watched my baby turn into a boy, and appreciated everything just a little more than before.

I'm so thankful to be given the opportunity to live abroad. Most people only dream of coming to Japan, but I get to live here. And, I get to raise my child here, which is another plus. I hope by living here, my son will be more open minded, think outside the box, and appreciate people's differences. I know he will look at the world differently as a result of growing up in Japan. I know his world will be smaller, kinder and better than mine. I know that living abroad will make him a more interesting individual capable of seeing things through other people's eyes. For that, I'm grateful.

However, I do miss those closest to us...like BJ, JC, Big D, and Rice Spice. I miss those who have made me who I am today. I try to keep in touch as best I can through e-mails and phone calls, but I know sometimes I can be a slacker. And, by being here in Japan, I have missed the birth of BJ's baby, Princess. I have yet to meet Princess, and she is almost 6 months old now. I am sad about that. But, BJ is incredibly understanding. She knows that even though I can't be there to watch here baby grow, I think about them all the time. After all, I have a mini-shrine on my fridge. I've got pictures of Princess plastered on my fringe like she's a wanted felon.

And, I miss the kind, positive words of Big D. I miss hearing his goofy laughter and seeing his smiling face at the end of each day. I miss running with him and hearing the sound of our footsteps as they move in unison to become one. I miss our adventures together. We were always ready for anything, whether is was a half marathon race or a trip to Oklahoma to run 20 miles. Whatever it was, we did it together...no questions asked.

I miss Texas. I miss the red dirt of North Texas and the pine trees of East Texas. I miss the beautiful skyline of Downtown Houston. I miss the smell of fresh cut grass running down Allen Parkway or Memorial. I miss hearing my footsteps as the crush the dirt beneath me on the trails near Memorial Park. I miss the colorful people and the diversity only Houston has to offer. I miss Montrose, in the heart of Gay Mecca. I miss my flamboyant, gay neighbors who used to make me smile as I watched them manicure their yards to perfection. I miss the 100 year old Oak trees in West University. I miss the beautiful bayous filled with dead people and debris. I miss the sight of pickup trucks and boats hitched to the back. I miss the smell of the humid, salt filled air near Rockport, Texas. I miss the sight of sea gulls coasting in the light, ocean breeze. I miss all of it.


Even though I miss Texas, Japan is now my home. Japan is where I'll stay until told otherwise. I will continue to marvel at the architecture and beauty of this great nation. I will try to assimilate as much as possible and make a positive influence on the Japanese people. I will show them Texas hospitality and kindness the way only Texans can. I will tell them about every thing wonderful that encompasses my great and wonderful state. I will make them love and appreciate Texas the way I do.


So, again I say, wow- what a year! I have so much to be thankful for and so much to miss!

Welcome back...Rice Spice!

So, after about 3 months of silence, she's back. Rice Spice is back in the world of blogdom! Yippee! I'm so excited to have her back. I miss hearing about her adventures! And, since she was my inspiration for my blog, and encouraged me to write about my own misadventures, I feel excited and giddy to have her back and writing. However, since she left Houston and moved to Tampa with her boyfriend, she has moved blogs and started a new one. Here's the link to Rice Spice's new world:

http://atexapinointhesun.blogspot.com/

I think it has a very appropriate title, by the way! So, check out her blog, I'm sure you'll find it a great read.

So, welcome back Rice Spice! We missed you!

Wait...I gotta poop!

(This is a picture of me pretending to use a Japanese squatty potty. This picture was taken in July and posted previously.)

Okay, it seems in my house that we are always running late because of some one's bowels. I know this sound disgusting, but I'm just letting you into my world. And, frankly, my world is full of bowel movements...either mine, Husband's, or Jude's!

As a runner, I mean social jogger, my bowels can often dictate a run. If they're empty, there's less chance of them causing issues. And, there's nothing worse than being out in the middle of no where and having to take a poop. Or, running in Tokyo, Japan, and having to find a convenience shop with a Western style potty to poop in. So, to eliminate this, I try to go before I run.

Husband is the same way. He, too, must empty his bowels before a run. But, his bowels aren't as...let's say...able to perform the task when asked to do so. Me, on the other hand, I can pretty much go when needed...thank Jesus for that! Husband must eat yogurt, high fiber cereal, fiber muffins, and fruit on a daily basis in order to keep things flowing smoothly, if you know what I mean.

Then, there's Jude. The kid is NOT so regular. You never know when the kiddo is going to have to crap! And, it seems as though it always comes at the worst possible moment. Since starting school, the kid has had issues going. He doesn't drink much at school, and they always serve rice. So, with the combination of those 2 things mentioned, the kid sometimes has issues going. And, when he has to go...it usually takes him like an hour. When he empties his bowels, it all comes out! Sometimes, the kid fills the toilet bowl more than once, which I find completely amazing!



So, this morning, as we were running late for the bus (as usual), Jude says, "I gotta poop!" I think oh shit, not now kid, we're gonna miss the bus, and then I'm going to have to drive you to school, which could possibly take 2 whole freakin' hours out of my busy day...shit. He had just finished eating his scrambled eggs, bacon, and chocolate milk. So, I grabbed the kid, stripped him down, and put him on the potty. While he was sitting there on the toilet, I got him dressed for school, sorda. I put on his shirt and socks, and then put his undies and pants around his ankles. I wanted to brush his teeth while he was on the potty, but he refused to let me do it. His response was, "That's nasty mommy!" I guess in my haste to get him ready, I lost all common sense. So, the kid pushed and pushed for what seemed like eternity. After 1o minutes, I told him he was finished and wiped. (That's right, I wiped his ass!) I could have let him do his own wiping, but I didn't feel like watching him smear shit all over his back, and then having to bathe my shit covered kid.




I brushed his teeth, he put on his shoes, I grabbed his backpack, and we ran out the door. Luckily, we made it to the bus stop before the bus left. Praise Jesus!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Marathon Training Update

I finally bought new shoes! Yippee! My old shoes are the exact same shoes as the one pictured above except they are the older model/version. I ran my last marathon in these shoes, and I love them. So I keep buying them. They are ASICS Gel Evolution 4. They are designed for people who over pronate and who have fat, flat, wide feet who need extra support. And, well, that's me. These are the best shoes for me! They are pricey, but worth every penny! I would even pay more for them, because I love them so much, and they are so good to me. (They cost about $110 per pair.)

So, this weeks running is going great! Last week I ran 4 miles Tuesday, 5 miles Wednesday, 5 miles Thursday and 6 miles Saturday. This week I've done 4 1/2 miles Tuesday, 6 miles today, and I'll do 5 tomorrow and 11 on Sunday. I'm really looking forward to the long run on Sunday. I do better at longer runs. I know it doesn't make sense to non-runners, but I don't get into a groove until about mile 6 or so.

So, I'm feeling great and running pretty good. Most runs are good, but occasionally I feel sluggish or like I have lead in my feet. Last week's 6 miles on Saturday kicked my ass! Since it was a back-off week, I didn't think much about the run. But, then when I was running, my body was tired and lacked energy. I even had to walk for about 30 seconds to catch my breath at mile 4. My running buddies also had a hell of a time with last week's 6 mile run on Saturday. Who knows, maybe we had bad air or something. Whatever!

So, this week is going great, and I'm thankful for that. When YaYa and PoPo come to visit, I plan to take advantage of the free child care, and run my ass off. If I can get about 3 weeks worth of awesome runs, I'll be set.

So, wish me luck!

Muffin top!

Do you see how the top of the muffin has kinda oozed over the muffin cup while baking?? Well, that's how I look in my size 2 jeans. I was going to take a picture of my own muffin top and show you, but I thought I would spare you the horrid site of my jelly roll/muffin top.

You would think with all the running, I would be lean and trim, right?! Well, wrong! My legs are tight and cut. You can see definition in my quads and calves, but the rest of me...not so much!

Granted, I've never had a great body, that's for sure, but now the little road bike tire around my waist has grown to a mountain bike tire. Sheesh! I've only gained about a pound or 2, if that, but my clothes are definitely tighter, especially around the waist. My butt's gotten slightly larger, too. But, I'm thrilled about that! I used to have a "back with a crack," but now I've actually got some junk in my trunk! Praise Jesus for that! Now Husband has more to grab when we...wait...I'll stop there, you can finish the sentence yourself! So, yes, I'm becoming booty-licuous, but with a spare tire, and that's NOT sexy! I've been trying to cut back a bit on the portions I eat, but it doesn't seem to be helping. However, once I start really marathon training, I'll start to get leaner. When I say "start really marathon training," I mean running 10-20 miles in one run. This weekend I'm running 11 miles on Saturday and that should help...I hope! (By the way, each time I type the word marathon, I accidentally type marathong! What the freak? You know where my mind is!)

So, Husband has also gained about 10 pounds since moving to Japan. But, on that skinny, little man you can barely tell. I think now he weighs 138 pounds. Oooh! Whatever, I weighed more than him when I was pregnant with Jude. Now that was a scary sight!

So, I'll try not to think about the extra whale blubber I'm carrying around my waist. But, the force of the top button cutting into my muffin top will be a daily reminder that I need to quit eating so damn much. And, I refuse to buy new pants. Instead, I will continue to stuff my booty-licious ass in my jeans, and suck in my muffin top when I meet new people. For the rest of you, I will simply unbutton the top button of my jeans when I sit and eat. Again, I refuse to buy new clothes. I refuse to get fat and wonder "Jeeze, how did that happen?" I know how it freakin' happened! I stuffed my fat face with too much freakin' cookies, chips, ramen and tempura.

Crap, now I'm old and fat!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Happy Birthday to me!

The picture above describes how I feel about my birthday! I'm okay with getting older, really...I am. Well, that's what I tell myself. With age comes wisdom, right?! I think that's just what old people tell themselves so they can feel better about being closer to death.

So, every year I do something drastic near or around my birthday. A couple of years ago, I cut my hair really short and dyed it red. Husband didn't care for the cut or the color.

I kinda go through a mid-life crisis as I watch each year pass quicker than the year before. But, this year has been good to me, I must admit that. I've made great new friends and experienced what Japan and Tokyo have to offer me.

But, I don't like the physical effects of the aging process. Just the other day, I thought I saw glitter in my hair. To my surprise, it was just another silver/gray hair peeking through. I'm sure by 40 I'll be completely gray at this rate!

Hmmmm, yep, I'm almost another year older. Wow! They say age is just a number, right?! Well, they are wrong! Your age says a lot about you. It says what you have experienced. It says whether or not you're naive or content or wise. Just think about it, have you ever met a wise 18 year old person. Hell no! At 18, you are just beginning to discover who you are and what you want in life. At 18, you are trying to figure out ways to cut your college classes and party while being hung over. At 18, you are developing yourself into who you will become at 30.

You know that with each day that passes, you are one day closer to death. Sorry for that little tid bit.

Ahem.

Well, at least on my birthday, the whole freakin' world parties with me. That's right, I was born on New Year's Eve. YaYa has mentioned that every one was drunk when I was born some 30 years ago. That kinda explains a lot, doesn't it?! Granted, she wasn't drunk (well, at least she SAYS she wasn't), but I believe the doctors were and so was PoPo. It's a good thing she's a nurse!

So, yep, I'm another year older. (Sigh!) Hmmm....yep, older and wiser, grayer and fluffier, more forgetful and slightly more neurotic. Boy, I have so much to look forward to...after all, I'm one year closer to death....

Okay, okay, I won't bring you down from your happy little place. Let's try to look at this in a positive light. In 30 or so more years, I can get discounts when eating out and going to the movies. I can fart and not even have to try to fake it or blame anyone else. I can just fart and stand there in my own fart smell, letting it permeate through my clothing. I never have to use the restroom...I can just wear adult diapers and piss myself. I can yell obscenities and slap hot chicks on the ass. Oh, wait, sorry, those are things that dirty, old MEN can do and get away with. Old ladies can get away with.....ummm....okay....ummm...shit, that sucks! I can't think of one freakin' thing that old ladies can do and get away with. Man, that sucks! Wait, I got one! I can sit in an old rocking chair and pretend to forget who you are. That sounds like fun! I can dowse myself in perfume that smells like moth balls and pinch the cheek's of small children. I can call and harass my son's wife on a regular basis. I can make Jude's future wife feel inadequate, unworthy, and ask, "Have you gained weight...you look a little swollen." Now, that makes me happy! I can't wait to do those things! Yippee!

Okay, so after discussing this with you, you have reminded me of all the things I can look forward to as I become an old lady. Thanks!

So, happy freakin' birthday to me!

Oh no...the police!

So, the other day I got pulled over by the police for talking on my cell phone while driving. Technically, I was not operating a vehicle, though-- I was at a stop light, and I put my car in park while I left Husband a voicemail message on his cell. By the way, it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Japan.

So, I heard the sirens, and I saw the police officer on his motorcycle. He came up to my driver's side window and motioned for me to pull over. I did as I was asked. I rolled down the window, and he started yelling at me in Japanese. I let him yell for a few seconds, and then I yelled back, "Wakarimasen, wakarimasen!" (That means I don't understand, I don't understand.) Then, he lowered his voice and said, "May I see your license, please." I handed him my Japanese driver's license, my pass port, my Texas driver's license and whatever other ID card I had in my wallet. I think I even gave him my old library card. I was really nervous and didn't want a ticket.

This was our conversation:

"You please no talk on phone while you drive, okay?" he said, unsure of himself.

"Gomenasai, gomenasai," I yelled. (That means I'm sorry, I'm sorry.)

"No talk while driving, okay," he said again in broken English.

"Technically, sir, I wasn't driving...I was stopped with my car in park," I replied.

"No talk while driving, huh?" he said again a little louder.

"But, technically, I wasn't driving and talking...I was stopped," I said again.

"You no talk on phone in car!" he yelled at me. I could tell he was getting annoyed with me.

"Okay, okay, sumimasen, gomenasai, gomenasai!" I yelled back, hoping he wouldn't give me a ticket. (I said Excuse me, I'm sorry, I'm sorry!)

He looked at my IDs and looked at me. I smiled my cheesiest smile and tried to look pathetic.

"Oh, you American from Texas...I don't want problem...no talk on phone in car, okay?" he said.

"Yes, I'm gaijin from Texas, Yeehaw!" I replied. (Gaijin means foreigner- kinda like alien.)

He smiled and said, "No ticket, just warning...no talk on phone, okay?"

"Okay, okay, arigato goizai mas!" I replied. (That means thank you very much.)

He handed me back my IDs and went on his way. My heart was racing. I was so scared I was going to get a ticket. But, even in my scared state of mind, I still wanted to let him know that I technically wasn't driving and talking on a cell phone. I was parked at a light.

When I came home, I told Husband what had happened. He got mad at me for using my phone while driving. Then, I had to explain to him that I technically wasn't operating my vehicle--I was parked at a light. He didn't want to argue with me, either. He just told me not to do it again.

But, I still don't think I did anything wrong!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Christmas Photos!

A friend of mine came over this morning and took our family photo for our annual Christmas card. Here are some of the pictures she took. Enjoy!

Dinner with the 3 amigos!

Tonight for dinner, I invited Running Babe, Bean, and Marathon Man. We ate left over Mexican food from my cooking class. We pigged out!


We had a great time eating, chatting, and discussing plans for my birthday night.


There's nothing more enjoyable than good food and good friends! (Wait, it sounds like I ate you guys, and that's not what I meant. I meant that having good friends over for dinner is enjoyable. I didn't mean that I was "having" YOU for dinner, and I didn't mean that I was "having" YOU like in a sexual way. Okay, I should just stop. I'm digging myself deeper and deeper into a hole! WHATEVER!)


(By the way, I'm sorry the beans gave you gas! I hope the after dinner mints (Maalox) helped.)

What are you thankful for?

As the year is coming to an end, I feel like I have so much to be thankful for. I've always been the type of person to see things in a positive way, and for that I'm grateful. For me, the glass is always half full, and I never sweat the small things--life's too short for that! I guess being positive in itself is a wonderful thing. This sounds cheesy and lame-o but...I know some how, some way things will work out for the best. They always have and they always will. I guess the Lord watches over me and protects me-- for that, I'm grateful. I know I sound like a holly-roller or a televangelist trying to get you to call in and give me money, so I can pray for your lost soul. But, I truly believe the Lord takes care of me. I'm thankful for that. I know it's probably hard work to protect me, especially from myself. So, I'm thankful for that. I'm thankful that I have a loving, forgiving Lord who watches over me and protects me.



I'm also incredibly thankful for the small things that I think others take for granted. For example, when I pray at night, I thank the Lord for the food in belly, the air in my lungs, the roof over my head, and the warm, cozy bed in which I sleep. They may seem like small things, but to me they matter the most. Without the nourishment of food, or the roof over my head, or the warmth of my blankets, I could not be who I am. And, I never, ever take for granted the ability to breathe. I know that in an instant, that could stop. After all, I have asthma, and every breathe of fresh air truly is a gift.


So, what are you thankful for this year??


When you believe that even the small things are blessings, you live a much more fulfilled, enjoyable existence. And, you never take things for granted.


I think that's why I'm so happy and fun to be around. I'm always incredibly thankful for every moment of every day. I'm thankful for my Husband, my beautiful, goofy son, my family, and my friends. I'm thankful for even the silliest of things...like sour cream and Triscuits.


When Husband and I got married, we screwed the system and went to the Justice of the Peace. After that, we headed down to our local Luby's Cafeteria and ate lunch. We got married in blue jeans and Birkenstock sandals. We were just so happy to be husband and wife that the rest of the crap didn't matter. I'm thankful for that.


I'm thankful that I'm healthy enough to train and run the Tokyo Marathon. Being healthy is so important to me. I believe our bodies are gifts from the Lord. He created us, and it's our job to take care of our gift. So, it is our responsibility to nourish our body, exercise, and protect it.


I also believe that God created man in his own image. Therefore, every person I see is a gift. Even though I might make fun of someone for having a weird haircut or wearing something slutty, I believe that each person on the planet is gift. Because I believe this, it makes it hard for me to hate. I'm thankful for that.


So, now that you know what I'm thankful for...tell me what you're thankful for this year. After all, we all have so much to be thankful for!

Mexican Fiesta...Japanese style!

So, yesterday was a success!! Eleven of my Japanese students came to my apartment for a Mexican Cooking Class/Party. I taught them how to make tacos, guacamole, beans, and Mexican rice. They really enjoyed it. We pigged out! We were all busting at the seams. For some of them, this was their first taste of Mexican food. They loved it!


Here are some pictures from the event. Enjoy!

Considering most of my students are old enough to be my grandparents, they treat me with respect and honor. They are great people who are very eager to learn. They make me appreciate my job. Thanks Ome Class! Y'all rock!

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree...

The holiday season is upon us.

I love the holidays, but now even more. Jude's sense of bewilderment and curiosity has created the same feelings in me. Every year the holiday season becomes more and more exciting for us. Now, we get to share Christmas Carols, stories and traditions with our son. I love it. It gives me purpose to teach him what I know and more.


And, I'm especially excited to spend the holidays with YaYa, PoPo, and Sister.


Here are some pictures I took of Jude the other night while he was harassing the Christmas tree. Enjoy!

I'm not a vampire!

So, this morning I woke up and used the restroom as I normally do. Then, my nose itched, and I rubbed it vigorously. Suddenly, I felt something warm above my lip. At first, I thought it was snot dripping. Naturally I licked it, but it wasn't snot. It was blood. And, it wasn't dripping out...rather it was pouring out like a faucet. I grabbed some toilet paper and pinched my nose. Within minutes the toilet paper was saturated, so I grabbed more. I got off the toilet and went to the living room to see if husband was home. He wasn't. So, I went to the couch and laid down while pinching my nose. But, then the blood started to run down the back of my throat. I was forced to swallow the warm, metal tasting blood. Instantly my empty stomach started to process the blood, making weird gurgling noises.



My nose bled for about 15 minutes, filling my stomach full of blood. After my nose stopped bleeding, I got up and got Jude up for school. My stomach was upset from the mass quantity of blood inside of it. I drank some water to calm my stomach. It didn't help. Then, I ate some cereal, thinking it would absorb the blood in my stomach and stop the nausea and gurgling sound. It didn't help. Then, I burped and the taste of warm blood came up. It was disgusting. My mouth tasted like metal and blood, so I brushed my teeth.


When Jude woke up, we saw blood all over the bathroom floor, on the toilet, on the white bathroom rug, and all over my shirt and face. He immediately wanted to know the cause. He seemed intrigued by it. I cleaned up the bloody mess, and then got Jude ready for school.


My trash can is filled with bloody paper towels and toilet paper.


If a forensic team were to enter my apartment, they would probably assume someone was murdered here. The amount of blood I lost was amazing. So, I'm writing this to ensure you that I'm alive and well. So well in fact that I've already done 2 loads of laundry.


And, I have come to the realization that I could never be a vampire. The taste of blood isn't so bad. But, when you burp it up, that's just nasty!!


Just another day in Weenie's World!

Christmas Lunch...Weenie style!

So, on Christmas day my apartment will be filled with people. There will be me (duh!), Husband, Jude, YaYa, PoPo, Sister, Running Babe, Marathon Man (perhaps Giuseppe Verde will pay us a visit...that is...if we give Marathon Man enough alcohol!), Bean, and Jesus (it's not pronounced Jesus- like the son of God, but rather Hay-soos, the way that Latinos pronounce it in Espanol.) (And, yes, if you believe in Christ, he is always with you...but I'm not referring to Jesus Christ, but rather I'm referring to my devoutly Christian Japanese friend who I will call Jesus (pronounced Hay-soos) here in my blog). (Got it?! Good!)

It should be an interesting afternoon of food, fun and laughter. I know it's 23 days away, but I'm already looking forward to it.

***I forgot to mention that Sister is Jewish. So, she will be celebrating Hanukkah, not Christmas. (That's right, my Sista is a Jew. How a confirmed Catholic became a practicing Jew is beyond me! Whatever floats her boat! I guess I should pray for her or something, right?!)

I smell like a Mexican!

This is for you BJ...Taco, Taco...Burrito, Burrito! (Do you remember the South Park episode where Jennifer Lopez sings Taco Flavored Kisses??? I do, and I was singing that song as I was preparing my recipes. I was making myself laugh out loud. Here is a link to the song: http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=713207)

Anywho, sorry folks for that! As you know, I'm easily distracted. If I see something shiny, I'm often drawn to it!

So, I'm having 11 of my Japanese students over tomorrow for a Mexican style lunch. I'm preparing beef tacos, frijoles a la charra (bean soup), arroz con pollo (rice with chicken), and cookies. I've already started making the beans, that's why I smell like a Mexican. I'm cooking them in my crock pot (courtesy of A Year of Crockpotting-- by the way, this is the best damn blog I've found in a long time...she has great ideas for great food...you should check it out!).

So, I bought all my ingredients for tomorrow, and I've cleaned the whole fucking house, I mean apartment...what the hell, you know I live in an apartment, right?! Sorry, again I'm easily distracted. I'm really looking forward to everyone coming over tomorrow. It should be a blast. I'll make sure to take lots of pictures just for you!

So, that's why I smell like a Mexican.

Husband came home for "lunch" today, if you know what I mean. I think the smell of beans and garlic turned him on. Ooh, that sounds nasty doesn't it?! Or, maybe because I smell like food, he was turned on. WHATEVER!

Ahem.

Moving on. So, tomorrow my apartment will reek of Mexican food and old Japanese people. It should be awesome!

Have I mentioned before that I love Japan?! If not, let me say it again...I love this country!

Shibuya at Midnight...

After Karaoke, we returned to our hotel by train- after all, we had been drinking, and we NEVER drink and drive! Mass transit is awesome in Japan- especially after drinking!


We had to walk through Shibuya, and it was crowded! The streets were packed with intoxicated Japanese. It was awesome! I tell you, the Japanese can party like it's 1999!

(Sexy couple, huh?!)

(Look at all the people!!)

Karaoke...Room 601

(Here is Giuseppe Verde rocking out singing karaoke!)

In the movie Lost in Translation, the main characters sing karaoke at this Karaoke Bar in this exact room...room 601. Husband sang his little heart out, and we rocked out until the wee morning hours. (We had a babysitter for Jude, of course.)

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Park Hyatt Tokyo

Friday night we went to the Park Hyatt for drinks. This is the exact seat where Bill Murray's character, Bob, sat in the movie Lost in Translation.


The view from the 52nd floor was spectacular! Enjoy the pictures!
(Husband and me sitting at the bar.)

(Running Babe and me having cocktails at the bar.)

(Husband and Giuseppe Verde (aka Marathon Man) sipping their cocktails.)

(Look at the beautiful view! The lights go on forever!)

(Aren't we a cute couple??!!)

(Running Babe and me in the cab on the way to the Hyatt.)

When Marathon Man drinks alcohol, the corncob that is permanently stuck in his butt seems to fall out. He becomes a really decent, fun guy. So, when he drinks, he becomes Giuseppe Verde...his alter ego. He is hilarious, witty, edgy, fun, and spontaneous. But, since he has his reputation to worry about, Giuseppe Verde can only come out to play on special occasions. And, my birthday is right around the corner... I can't wait to play with Giuseppe Verde again!

Just another day in Weenie's World!