Reply to "Curious in Colleyville"

One of our esteemed readers (Anonymous) has posted a question regarding my status as a Ninja. Now, as I have already explained, Ninja's are supposed to be like secret agents. If I told you I was a Ninja, it would not be a secret anymore. I will tell you this much. Someone that looks a lot like me will be touring the USA in the Spring and teaching several ancient Ninja skills. The first class will include the Kuji-in "nine finger cuts" to use while driving in freeway traffic. The second will go into the mind control and meditation techniques that allow Ninja to nap with eyes open while answering boring questions from people who want to know about Ninjas. The third class is a big-time secret and will be revealed only while under the influence of Sake as the sun rises over Mt. Fuji. Of course, the date of the Mt. Fuji class is a secret too, so we don't anticipate a big rush to sign up. I hope this answers your question "Anonymous."

Recruiting Mt. Fuji Climb Team

I'm giving you fair warning ... July & August are miserably hot in Tokyo; but, it is the only time of year that one can climb Mt. Fuji. I am putting together a Mt. Fuji climb team. I hear that grandmothers and children make the climb... Of course, maybe they start out as children and are grandmothers when they finish it. I also hear that it takes about 10 hours and it is best done at night so that one can be on the top for sunrise. Maybe I should clarify these rumors before we start climbing. But, just in case, start training now and join the team ... a free shot of Sake for all team participants that make it to the top .... A very expensive medical evacuation helicopter ride for those that don't make it. For further details, send your inquiries to barbarasmith@austin.rr.com

Forget the Year Party

So you've had a bad year????? The Japanese solution at the end of the year is to have something called a "Forget the Year Party." I personally think this is a great idea. I will be in Austin to see family and friends so will miss the festivities here in Tokyo. I guess that means I have no excuse to drink myself into forgetfullness....