Autumn Equinox

There was a nat'l holiday last week for the autumn equinox. Since the kids still had school anyway, the husband and I decided to investigate an ancient hot-springs town called Arima. It had some beautiful scenery and of course the baths. They have 2 types of water: one is iron and salt and the other is a radium and carbonate combination. We didn't bathe in either one, but we did soak our feet in a 'kinsen' spring (the iron/salt one). And my hip hasn't been hurting as much. I think next time I go, I'm going all in and see if I'm cured!

Cemetary

I think that cemetaries are fascinating places and the Japanese ones, as much, if not more so, than others. They seem to be sectioned off into families. And while some sections have all new stones and markers, others are all old, while still others are a mix of old and new. Some are very well tended, while others are over-grown and falling down. Flowers, leaves, drinks, candles and incense are common sights. Here are a few images. I hope noone is offended.

Peanuts

Here they are. I have harvested my peanuts! I'd say there's a dozen or so there. Right now they are drying in the sun. Then they dry for another month or so, then I'll try to roast them. I'll let you know how they turn out. Look out Jimmy Carter, I may become a peanut farmer too!

Himeji Central Park

Today we drove to Himeji Central Park, where they have a drive-thru safari, as well as a walk-thru section, petting zoo and amusement park. It was pretty cool to drive through the middle of all these animals. During the walking part, we were able to get very close to the animals.



Have you ever been this close to an elephant's trunk. Just a little freaky! Especially when people would shove food into it!
The bears were clever at begging and got lots of food also.
The white tigers were beautiful. The dog exhibit was one of my favorites. You could go in and pet the dogs-all sorts. My favorites were the 2 schnauzers. First time I ever saw dogs in a zoo. Oh well!

Tumble x2

Well, I did it again. Took quite a little tumble out in the street on my way home yesterday! Not quite as horrific as last time, thank goodness! No concussion, no head injury. Both ankles seem to have been slightly twisted and are quite stiff today. Somehow both ankles got scraped up on the outside (I imagine looking something like Olive Oyl with rubbery legs going every which way) I landed on my elbow which is very stiff and bloody with a lump the size of an egg. Also scraped up my knee and wrist. And before you ask, yes it was on flat ground!! Thank goodness my bones seem to be strong!

I did it!!!!!!!

I did it !!!! I passed my driving test! I now have a Japanese driver's license!! I sure am glad that's over. In other news, I am subbing at a language school, teaching english to Japanese adults. Only to help out a friend. Not sure if I want to do it all the time. Last night was my first time and it went well. I'll keep you posted.