Author Archives: johnrachel

Life In Japan: City Boy Gardener

Posted on July 16, 2025 by johnrachel

For me, every year it’s the same. I find it miraculous that you can start with a seed and a few months later end up with a salad, or a delicious bowl of mashed potatoes. Continue reading →

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New World Odor

Posted on July 3, 2025 by johnrachel

Is that the “sweet smell of success” coming our way? President Trump has done it again! Should we expect any less from this political and marketing genius? Continue reading →

Posted in Deconstruction, Nihilism, Satire, Social Commentary | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Life In Japan: Building a Catio

Posted on July 1, 2025 by johnrachel

“Hey Daddio, what’s a catio?” Why, a catio is a cat patio. You got that, Pinnochio? Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Panda Heartbreak

Posted on April 30, 2025 by johnrachel

Because they are due to be returned to China in June, we just visited the four pandas living at Adventure World, in
Wakayama Prefecture. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Cherry Blossoms 2025

Posted on April 16, 2025 by johnrachel

It’s that time of year again. Cherry blossoms! Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Street Aesthetics

Posted on April 15, 2025 by johnrachel

The city here did an amazing job of improving the aesthetics of one of our traditional streets. Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Mount Fuji

Posted on March 31, 2025 by johnrachel

Just recently, we spent three wonderful days in the Mount Fuji area. The weather was totally on our side, with clear blue skies every day, and hardly a cloud in sight! Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Our 13th Wedding Anniversary

Posted on March 30, 2025 by johnrachel

Today, March 30th, is our 13th wedding anniversary! Continue reading →

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Life In Japan: Taiko

Posted on March 25, 2025 by johnrachel

Taiko performances are common both in Japan and other parts of the world. We recently had such a performance at the castle grounds located in the heart of downtown Tambasasayama. Continue reading →

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Book Recommendation: My Father’s Journal by William Astore

Posted on March 16, 2025 by johnrachel

I have a great idea for you. Take a break from the horror show going on in the world and savor a brilliant memoir-tribute by a son to his father. Continue reading →

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