Tis been awhile since I've blogged. It's not that I lack material or motivation, but my energy's been engaged elsewhere. I've had loads of vacay visitors, conferences in Yokohama and Tokyo, and trippy trips of my own to hippy Hiroshima and cultural Mecca Kyoto! "Curry King" FTF came back for a month's stint and we headed to Mt. Hakkoda heaps. Most memorable was our backcountry hike up "Maedake", and sweet ride down, carving fresh lines through powder, until I hit a hidden tree stump and went flying, superman style into prickly brush. I almost escaped unscathed, minus an avocado imprint on my left thigh to prove the tale. An exact replica from a former incident in December also proved to be a quirky conversation starter in Australia while basking on Bondi beach in my bikini. Names and countries of origin were bypassed and the first question I was usually asked was, "What the hell happened to you?!"
On March 2nd, my parents, two sisters and B.G. arrived in Aomori for a week's stay! Though initially hesitant as to how I'd be able to weld two separate spheres together, and most importantly, how the six of us could survive sleeping in cramped quarters of my modest flat, I can honestly say it was one of the best weeks I've had in Japan. Time and again my family impressed me with their enthusiasm to try anything. My papa even tasted cod testes, a local delicacy which I usually decline! We team taught at Toyama together, and my sisters became instant celebrities. The students whipped out their mobile phones and simultaneously snapped photos of the blue eyed blondies. My Momma was also a hit, surrounded by her groupies for so long I had to shoo the flies away! I was really happy to host B.G. too. He balanced Spofford silliness well, and I know my Papa enjoyed their coffee talk and pool swim in piggy pink swim caps! Other highlights of the week were trying on kimonos (of which you've probably already viewed the pic), partaking in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, drinking "sake" with my colleagues, and visiting the biggest Buddha in Japan!
A day after my family and B.G. left, T.R. arrived with two great loves: raw cheese and a jar of gold - Maranatha PB. I was so excited to see him that I couldn't resist leaping into his arms! We spent the rest of the evening eating spicy black bean soup and re-inventing lyrics to "Down by the Bay". "Have you ever had a squeal, atop the world's tallest wheel?" ...down by the bay! Actually yes, I have, but to avoid any ambiguity it was from my fear of heights. Ironically enough though, it was on Valentine's Day in Yokohama with my good mate C.H.! At the bottom of the ferris wheel were 3 men with boxes of dark chocolate - a third love. I was told to choose the cutest of the lot. Two young bucks were getting all the biz, so I opted for the oldie! His toothless gaping grin is all I recall of that moment.
At midnight March 15th I welcomed two more MN mates: M.S. (now M.S.M.), and her husband J.M.! Though M.S.M. and I hadn't seen each other for eons, we picked up where we left off, and by 3 a.m. we were almost brought up to speed. For the next four days we ventured around Aomori, taking in Take-san's magnificent massages, hitting up hot springs, and snacking on "kaiten" conveyor belt sushi! On Sunday we skipped onto the "Shinkansen", and 5 train rides later arrived in Hiroshima. Giving into growling tummies, we wandered to "Okonomura" for Japan's best "Okonomiaki" - Hiroshima style: a layered dish consisting of a thin pancake, cabbage and bean sprouts, soba buckwheat noodles, and a fried egg all topped with a savory salty sweet sauce!
Neither Hiroshima nor Kyoto was what I'd imagined them to be. Hiroshima was SO VERDANT, one would never guess it was destroyed by an atomic bomb 60 years ago. And, Kyoto's modernity took me by surprise. I didn't expect to see skyscrapers, Starbuck's coffee and subway lines! However, after wandering for four days I realized "my" Kyoto DID exist; Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines were everywhere, sandwiched between fast food chains and scattered around the city. It was stunning to see such stark contrast side by side. I felt like Dorothy, leaving a black and white world in Kansas and stepping into colorful Oz. I didn't find a Scarecrow, Tinman or Lion, but I was lucky to spot a Geisha! If you're in search of a light read may I recommend Geisha of Gion by Mineko Iwasaki. I believe it clears up a lot of misconceptions about Geisha, and gives good insight into the actual lives they lead. Best of all it was written by one.
If you're keen to see more pictures check out my flickr account! I've posted photos of Australia, Vietnam, Hiroshima, Kyoto and favorite students at school! The link is: http://www.flickr.com/photos/emspofford - "dozo". Last, I should further explain my blog entry "To Who This May Concern...". The Lyseng Scholarship is a memorial dedicated to my grandparents, and is offered through St. Francis in L.F., assisting music students with lessons or instruments. My momma jokingly told me to apply when I decided to replace the Yamaha flute I've had since 4th grade, so I wrote a sincere flattering essay - which worked! This time I chose a 2006 German Weimar open hole flute - it's lovely!
30 March 2006
17 February 2006
To Who This May Concern...
Hello!
With this letter I wish to apply for a Lyseng Musical Scholarship to assist me in the acquisition of a new flute. Since childhood music has been an integral and important part of my life. It has and continues to comfort, challenge, and reward me in numerous ways.
My first memory of music was when I was five years old, singing "Angels Watching Over Me" with my mother each night before bedtime. After getting tucked in, she'd descend our vintage carpet stairs on 1st ST NE and play the piano, serenading me with her sweet melodies and harmonies. In 1st grade I was granted my first opportunity to perform on stage, singing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" at L.F.C.H.S. in my pink corduroy pants, and flanked by two Jennifers: Brumbaugh and Hart.
During elementary school I began playing the piano, recorder and flute. My mother was my first piano teacher, and I'm deeply indebted to her for sticking with a stubborn 7 year old who was definitely at times a defiant student! My father, or "papito", as I love to call him has also influenced me with his love for music. He's the best kazoo player I know, and he's always been my number one fan at recitals and concerts!
Growing up music was a daily part of my life. In school I played in concert and jazz bands, on weekends our family sang and performed in our church choir, (note: though "perform" may seem somewhat of a polemical "palabra" in this situation, it's what I felt we did because we'd often receive an applause after mass), and on holidays dynamic duets were popular. In Moorhead, MN the girls: Grandma, aunties and cousins gave good live background tunes, and during celebrations with the Spoffords music was also ubiquitous, though, during these occasions it was more alternative and most likely caused by auntie Jeanette's baked beans!
Involvement with music has deepened my relationships with family and friends. It's allowed me to connect with them on multiple levels. The most memorable times with my grandma Naomi were playing piano duets from the Sound of Music. She'd take the bass clef and I the treble; we'd sing, laugh, cry, and afterwards she'd always have my favorite cookies warm and ready with a cup of cold milk!
To continue with an analogy of a marvelous musical; on more than one occasion the Spoffords have been likened to the vivacious Von Trap family with their tuneful talent. As previously mentioned, both of my parents are rhythmically inclined, and my siblings and I've been fortunate to receive their melodious genes. Together we are quite the versatile ensemble, covering string, woodwind and percussions sections. Unfortunately, I can't claim competency with brass because my brother Andrew had to drop the trombone in elementary school. He attributes this to physical and oral difficulties (his arm couldn't reach the last position and the mouthpiece gave him canker sores), but I believe he much preferred carrying a pair of wooden sticks to school.
In the future I plan to continue sharing the gift of music with others. Receiving a Lyseng Musical Scholarship would support this endeavor. I'm currently living in Japan teaching English on the JET program, and I'd like to be able to play my (new) flute in lessons at Elementary, Junior and Senior High School visits. Additionally, I would also utilize my new instrument to get further involved with music in my community of Aomori, Japan. Thank you very much for your time and consideration of my application. I'm available for questions at your convenience at emspofford@yahoo.com or 81.80.1831.9700. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Best Regards,
Elizabeth M. Spofford
With this letter I wish to apply for a Lyseng Musical Scholarship to assist me in the acquisition of a new flute. Since childhood music has been an integral and important part of my life. It has and continues to comfort, challenge, and reward me in numerous ways.
My first memory of music was when I was five years old, singing "Angels Watching Over Me" with my mother each night before bedtime. After getting tucked in, she'd descend our vintage carpet stairs on 1st ST NE and play the piano, serenading me with her sweet melodies and harmonies. In 1st grade I was granted my first opportunity to perform on stage, singing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" at L.F.C.H.S. in my pink corduroy pants, and flanked by two Jennifers: Brumbaugh and Hart.
During elementary school I began playing the piano, recorder and flute. My mother was my first piano teacher, and I'm deeply indebted to her for sticking with a stubborn 7 year old who was definitely at times a defiant student! My father, or "papito", as I love to call him has also influenced me with his love for music. He's the best kazoo player I know, and he's always been my number one fan at recitals and concerts!
Growing up music was a daily part of my life. In school I played in concert and jazz bands, on weekends our family sang and performed in our church choir, (note: though "perform" may seem somewhat of a polemical "palabra" in this situation, it's what I felt we did because we'd often receive an applause after mass), and on holidays dynamic duets were popular. In Moorhead, MN the girls: Grandma, aunties and cousins gave good live background tunes, and during celebrations with the Spoffords music was also ubiquitous, though, during these occasions it was more alternative and most likely caused by auntie Jeanette's baked beans!
Involvement with music has deepened my relationships with family and friends. It's allowed me to connect with them on multiple levels. The most memorable times with my grandma Naomi were playing piano duets from the Sound of Music. She'd take the bass clef and I the treble; we'd sing, laugh, cry, and afterwards she'd always have my favorite cookies warm and ready with a cup of cold milk!
To continue with an analogy of a marvelous musical; on more than one occasion the Spoffords have been likened to the vivacious Von Trap family with their tuneful talent. As previously mentioned, both of my parents are rhythmically inclined, and my siblings and I've been fortunate to receive their melodious genes. Together we are quite the versatile ensemble, covering string, woodwind and percussions sections. Unfortunately, I can't claim competency with brass because my brother Andrew had to drop the trombone in elementary school. He attributes this to physical and oral difficulties (his arm couldn't reach the last position and the mouthpiece gave him canker sores), but I believe he much preferred carrying a pair of wooden sticks to school.
In the future I plan to continue sharing the gift of music with others. Receiving a Lyseng Musical Scholarship would support this endeavor. I'm currently living in Japan teaching English on the JET program, and I'd like to be able to play my (new) flute in lessons at Elementary, Junior and Senior High School visits. Additionally, I would also utilize my new instrument to get further involved with music in my community of Aomori, Japan. Thank you very much for your time and consideration of my application. I'm available for questions at your convenience at emspofford@yahoo.com or 81.80.1831.9700. I look forward to hearing from you in the near future.
Best Regards,
Elizabeth M. Spofford
21 January 2006
Re-cap of adventures in Australia and Viet Nam!
Twenty days in Australia, seven in Viet Nam, and here I sit Sunday morning snug under cozy covers trying to remember it all. I've spent the last 10 days re-adjusting to life in Japan: to re-acclimate to frigid temperatures, to remind myself what it's like to work, and to routinize daily life. My first days back in Aomori were a bit bizarre. I felt split in two, physically in Japan, but mentally still adrift - floating weightless on soft undulations, sipping mango smoothies, and staring into starry nights thinking simultaneously of a gazillion things and nothing at once.
The ultimate highlight was not an event, rather, it was the luxury of taking TIME: to stop, observe in detail, and look at life's mysteries on a micro level. I didn't experience any grand epiphanies (that I'm conscious of anyway), but, my senses were swarmed with new sights, smells, textures and tastes. Australia not only has the greatest number of beaches in the world, but they are all amazing! I found out that Phu Quoc's fetid fish sauce (an island south of Viet Nam and Cambodia) falls into the same category as durian on Viet Nam Airlines, meaning, it's banned for its malodorous nature! Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has the softest silk I've ever touched, and I took advantage of this, buying souvenir scarves and a tailor-made ao dai. The food met and exceeded my expectations. In Oz M.S. and I had the world on a platter: Indian, Moroccan, Thai and Turkish feasts are most memorable. In Viet Nam, cilantro, fresh dragon fruit and papaya (all non-existent in Aomori) consumed me, and I ate whatever I could get my hands on!
Continuing with the topic of consumption, it almost killed me. In a flash I'd magically metamorphose from a frugal female to a frivolous fool! I somehow convinced myself I needed a custom-made cashmere suit, 3 pair of sunnies, and a new leather wallet. I wouldn't say there were no boundaries, but I nearly crossed them when I shoe-horned my heels into some fancy dancy crocodile kicks!
I didn't be-bop to blues at the Woodford Festival, but I did jam in a djembe session. I didn't ride an elephant in Viet Nam, but I did rent a rocking cool motorbike one day! There are a good 2-3 hours worth of anecdotes to share, but one specific coincident I must write here and now. First, a bit of background information:
In August 2003 I went to Kansas City for the JET program departure orientation. There I met Christina from Nebraska, who was also headed to Japan. We had a nice chat, but didn't exchange contact information because we were being placed in polar opposite locations. And really, what was the chance we'd meet again, or so I thought. That winter S.R. and I planned a trip to southeast Asia, traveling through Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. We spent a week in Phuket taking PADI scuba courses, and there, randomly, I saw Christina! We took a few dives together on the Phi Phi Islands, exchanged stories of our experiences in Japan, and departed once more without a thought to future correspondence. Then, as previously mentioned, on my most recent trip to Viet Nam I spent a few days on Phu Quoc island. It's a quaint un-discovered gem, but on the verge of massive tourist exploitation. There again, M.S. and I decided to go scuba diving. That morning of, our dive masters were making the rounds picking people up in a rickety van, when all of the sudden, yes you guessed it, there was Christina again! For a second we stared wide-eyed at each other in disbelief, but the silence was soon broken with a gasp and an "Oh my something-or-other!!" This time we did exchange e-mails, but who knows, we'll probably unknowingly find each other once again in two years time! For now, I'm left pondering the meaning of it all, if there is one...
Sorry, no photos for you in the foreseeable future! My camera's got a mind of its own and it's decided not to cooperate in downloading to my Dell. Other disagreeable devices include: my snowboard (I snapped the Burton binding yesterday), my laptop (refuses to play CDs/DVDs), my mobile phone (mysteriously stopped working this a.m.) and occasionally, my shower! Though technologically far advanced with electronics, Japan fails to accommodate fierce winters and I'm often left with frozen pipes!
That's it for now - much love to you from your popsicle in Japan.
The ultimate highlight was not an event, rather, it was the luxury of taking TIME: to stop, observe in detail, and look at life's mysteries on a micro level. I didn't experience any grand epiphanies (that I'm conscious of anyway), but, my senses were swarmed with new sights, smells, textures and tastes. Australia not only has the greatest number of beaches in the world, but they are all amazing! I found out that Phu Quoc's fetid fish sauce (an island south of Viet Nam and Cambodia) falls into the same category as durian on Viet Nam Airlines, meaning, it's banned for its malodorous nature! Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) has the softest silk I've ever touched, and I took advantage of this, buying souvenir scarves and a tailor-made ao dai. The food met and exceeded my expectations. In Oz M.S. and I had the world on a platter: Indian, Moroccan, Thai and Turkish feasts are most memorable. In Viet Nam, cilantro, fresh dragon fruit and papaya (all non-existent in Aomori) consumed me, and I ate whatever I could get my hands on!
Continuing with the topic of consumption, it almost killed me. In a flash I'd magically metamorphose from a frugal female to a frivolous fool! I somehow convinced myself I needed a custom-made cashmere suit, 3 pair of sunnies, and a new leather wallet. I wouldn't say there were no boundaries, but I nearly crossed them when I shoe-horned my heels into some fancy dancy crocodile kicks!
I didn't be-bop to blues at the Woodford Festival, but I did jam in a djembe session. I didn't ride an elephant in Viet Nam, but I did rent a rocking cool motorbike one day! There are a good 2-3 hours worth of anecdotes to share, but one specific coincident I must write here and now. First, a bit of background information:
In August 2003 I went to Kansas City for the JET program departure orientation. There I met Christina from Nebraska, who was also headed to Japan. We had a nice chat, but didn't exchange contact information because we were being placed in polar opposite locations. And really, what was the chance we'd meet again, or so I thought. That winter S.R. and I planned a trip to southeast Asia, traveling through Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. We spent a week in Phuket taking PADI scuba courses, and there, randomly, I saw Christina! We took a few dives together on the Phi Phi Islands, exchanged stories of our experiences in Japan, and departed once more without a thought to future correspondence. Then, as previously mentioned, on my most recent trip to Viet Nam I spent a few days on Phu Quoc island. It's a quaint un-discovered gem, but on the verge of massive tourist exploitation. There again, M.S. and I decided to go scuba diving. That morning of, our dive masters were making the rounds picking people up in a rickety van, when all of the sudden, yes you guessed it, there was Christina again! For a second we stared wide-eyed at each other in disbelief, but the silence was soon broken with a gasp and an "Oh my something-or-other!!" This time we did exchange e-mails, but who knows, we'll probably unknowingly find each other once again in two years time! For now, I'm left pondering the meaning of it all, if there is one...
Sorry, no photos for you in the foreseeable future! My camera's got a mind of its own and it's decided not to cooperate in downloading to my Dell. Other disagreeable devices include: my snowboard (I snapped the Burton binding yesterday), my laptop (refuses to play CDs/DVDs), my mobile phone (mysteriously stopped working this a.m.) and occasionally, my shower! Though technologically far advanced with electronics, Japan fails to accommodate fierce winters and I'm often left with frozen pipes!
That's it for now - much love to you from your popsicle in Japan.
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