Daddys

Long before this stay in the Japanese Alps, I traveled to another land full of verdant mountains. Instead of rice patties, there were sheep. Instead of sunny skies, there was a haze of fog and mist, which created a whimsical and mystical scene. There were no leprechauns, but I definitely found a pot of gold in rural Ireland.

My dad took me to Ireland after my high school graduation and fueled my passion for traveling. Dad, thank you for inspiring a life-long love of travel and life-long memories of bonding with you from Alcatraz to the Cliffs of Moher. I wish I could share my current mountain vista with you in person.

Happy Father’s Day to my dad, who literally showed me how to climb mountains and never stop striving for the top. Happy birthday to my husband, who teaches our boys the same message, though more figuratively:) And thank you for giving our family the opportunity to create another generation of world travellers.

From Vegas to Farm Town

Life in the heart of Japanese farmland is a big change from the glitz and modern conveniences of Vegas.  The lack of distractions here is refreshing. When I ride around town, I see vistas of emerald mountains, rice patties, apple trees, and traditional homes constructed of weathered wood. This is in stark contrast to the desert landscape of warm hues, endless rocks, and 24hour gaming joints with glittery lights.  We start our days with homemade breakfasts made from produce and dairy from neighboring farms. We eat overlooking a plum tree orchard and huge vista of the Japanese Alps. In a country packed full of people, it is a real treat to live with a view of uninhabited mountain tops.

 

Today’s breakfast included sushi-grade salmon I pan-seared with soy sauce, local rice, and old-fashioned watermelon with seeds.  Modified produce, like “seedless” watermelon is not prevalent in Japan and produce really tastes different and better. Tomatoes and cucumbers actually have flavor!

After breakfast,we journey through winding country roads to a small city center in the neighboring town and drop Nico off at school.  I am still obsessed with the adorable outfits and bowing three year olds! When we walk into the school, Nico must change from his outdoor sneakers to special indoor shoes. As we changes, a group if his classmates greet us in dress-up clothes, smiling, bowing, and shouting out “ohayo gozaimasu” (good morning).

While Nico plays at school, the baby and I head to a local bakery. I indulge in this white mochi (smooth, sweet sticky rice). Soft as a marshmallow, I bite into and discover a green tea whip cream with mashed up azuki, sweet red beans frequently used in Japanese sweets. So umami! So delicious!

I wish I could leave samples on the blog!