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Paella Japonesa (How to Make Japanese-Style Paella) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-05-24 09:04:00
La paella es el plato tradicional de España, un rico arroz con mariscos. Pero en Japón, mejillón y camarón con cabeza son muy caros, por eso cociné con ingredientes japoneses, por ejemplo hongos shimeji, almeja (en la temporada en Japón), y camarón sin cabeza (usado ingredientes muy económicos en Japón). Y también, no tenemos paellera por eso cociné en sartén. Lo siento no es la paella > read more
Annular Solar Eclipse in Tokyo (東京の金環日食)
Published on 2012-05-20 20:39:00
An annular solar eclipse was seen in the sky over Tokyo on May 21, 2012 (6AM-9AM). It was very cloudy this morning, so we were very lucky to see this :D Maximum Solar Eclipse at 7:35AM. Photos are taken through Eclipse Glasses - by my darling :) ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron/ > read more
Nutella Mille Crêpe Cake (How to Make Crepes) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-05-18 11:03:00
Mille crêpe is a cake made with many layers of crêpe (thin pancake). Mille means "a thousand" in French. Although it is written in French, it is originated in Japan (I found this info on the Net). And of course, it is a very popular cake in Japan!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58ZyDkPPyeE I was so lazy that I made only 8 crepes and cut into half to make a half-round cake. hehe You will see > read more
Chicken Adobo - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-05-16 10:33:00
Chicken Adobo is the national dish of the Philipines. Sweet and sour taste goes great with rice!!! For sure, many Japanese love this taste and so does my darling :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0CmFznqt8_s --------------------------------- Chicken Adobo (Traditional Filipino Recipe) Difficulty: Easy Time: 2hrs Number of servings: 12 pieces Ingredients: 12 chicken drumsticks with bone A * > read more
What is Cake Flour?
Published on 2012-05-13 09:34:00
I receive many questions regarding the Cake Flour I use, so here is the answer! Cake Flour, we call 薄力粉 (Hakurikiko), is soft (weak) wheat flour of low viscosity and protein content. It has a fine texture and gives cakes more tender texture than regular flour. In my recipes, I always use Nisshin Seifun's Hakurikikomugiko. I hope you can find this at your nearest Asian grocery store. 日清 フラワー ( > read more
Healthy Banana Bran Muffin - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-05-09 05:36:00
This video will show you how to bake healthy banana bran muffins with thank you message ;) As a gift, I recommend you to use healthy ingredients! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zqtAjcnxl4 Great idea to thank your mom on mother's day, or your family, or even your friends!!! I want my mom to stay healthy and beautiful, so I gave this to her. She was happy :D ------------------------------- > read more
Jessie Steele Brown and Pink Polka Dot Josephine Apron
Published on 2012-05-04 00:08:00
Starting from 4/28 till 5/6, we are having Golden Week holiday (GW) in Japan. It's a large consecutive holiday containing public holidays. Some people must work on the 1st and 2nd because they are weekdays, but most people are off and my darling, too! Me?! Unfortunately, I am busy preparing for a new project that starts from the end of this month... I hope everyone likes it :) Anyways, it is > read more
Dorayaki (Japanese Azuki Red Bean Pancake) with Nutella - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-05-02 00:46:00
Dorayaki is Japanese confection. It is a pancake sandwich with Anko (sweet Azuki red bean paste). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZOdkR4GrB8 In this recipe, I will also show you how to make Dorayaki with nutella and banana. It was amazingly delicious XD I hope you can try both of them!!! --------------------------------- Dorayaki Difficulty: Easy Time: 1hr Number of servings: 4 Dorayaki > read more
Cooking Mama Lite
Published on 2012-04-28 08:17:00
Some people say I'm like Cooking Mama but I never got a chance to play it since then. Yesterday, my friend told me that the Cooking Mama game is available for free at App Store, so I finally played it! Haha! I understand why people say that. But, I couldn't even make meat patties... oops ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on > read more
Koinobori Spring Rolls (Recipe) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-04-24 21:08:00
Koinobori (こいのぼり) is carp-shaped wind socks traditionally flown on May 5th in Japan to celebrate "Tango no Sekku" (端午の節句), boy's festival, in honor of sons and in the hope that they will grow up healthy and strong. However in 1948, the government renamed the day "Kodomo no Hi" (こどもの日), children's day, to respect children's personalities and to celebrate their happiness. But we Japanese still > read more
Message Tirol (Tirol Chocolate) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-04-20 22:05:00
This is an interesting product that you can write a message on a piece of chocolate :D Tirol Chocolate Website http://www.tirol-choco.com/info.html http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UA0KDkhHfrk 4/21 is the first anniversary of my channel! Did you watch my very first video?! LoL Thanks for your support!!! When you say you look forward to seeing my next videos, that means a lot!!! You all > read more
Strawberry Shortcake - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-04-17 10:52:00
Shortcake (shotokeki) is a layered sponge cake with strawberries and whipped cream. 4/4 was my darling's birthday, so I made this shortcake for him :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RE8uha6l32M I received many requests for shortcake, so I'm finally making this tutorial!!! --------------------------------- Strawberry Shortcake (Birthday Cake Recipe) Difficulty: medium Time: 2 hours (6 > read more
RIMMEL x Suzy's Zoo: Chocolate Scent Eye Shadow
Published on 2012-04-15 20:32:00
I bought this eye shadow with chocolate scent on the weekend :D This morning, I tried it on and it made me happy while I am very busy XD I don't buy makeup products that often, but it was so sweet that I thought I should get one!!! hehe Do you know any fun makeup item?! Let me know ;) ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ > read more
The Artist
Published on 2012-04-14 10:43:00
Today my darling and I've been to the movies after a long while. We watched The Artist which was released on 4/7 in Japan. Since my darling chose to watch it, I didn't read anything about the movie, so I wondered if I could enjoy it because it was black and white. But after the first few minutes I found the story was attractive and I liked it! I couldn't bear to see George Valentin's pride as a > read more
Sakura Pancake (Savory Hot Cake) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-04-10 09:18:00
This is savory vegetables pancake! Now Sakura (cherry blossoms) are blooming beautifully, so I will show you a great pancake idea ;) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljCMDzK9cOM I will use Morinaga's Hot Cake Mix but you can use any pancake mix for this recipe. I just want to share this idea with you. View Sakura Pictures at Instagram: ochikeron I have some pics of Sakura light-up, as well♥ > read more
Kitchen Accident 2
Published on 2012-04-08 11:15:00
Back in 2005, I cut my pinky while washing a rice bowl (I think I wrote somewhere on my blog) and now I cut my fourth finger while washing a cake knife. Again I called an ambulance and went to the hospital... Damn X( Careless!!! 2 stitches!!! I wish I could go back and tell myself not to rush while washing dishes!!! Or just be careful... ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http:// > read more
Stir-Fried Cabbage Neapolitan (Napolitan) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-04-06 12:08:00
Do you know Spaghetti Neapolitan (Napolitan)? It is Japanese-style spaghetti seasoned with ketchup. It is very popular home-cooked dish in Japan. It is nothing related to Italian spaghetti "Spaghetti alla Napoletana" or any other pasta using fresh tomato. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yr_WKlZ8VMw So today, I am going to season cabbage slices with ketchup. Very tasty yet delicious. Of course > read more
Green Rose Hula @ YouTube
Published on 2012-04-05 22:26:00
This is the 12th hula dancing video :D Green Rose Hula is another Hawaiian love song. My love goes to the green rose = my loved one. hehe As usual, I posted it on my YouTube account. So, I will share this video with my blog buddies who keep in touch with me on a regular basis or Tipness club members who took this "hula hula" class. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and send me a message. > read more
Spring Pastel Butterfly Cupcakes - Easter Video Recipe
Published on 2012-04-03 10:24:00
These are cheese cupcakes ;) I used cream cheese for both cupcakes and frosting. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMCCaU2fj3o A slight sour taste of the cream cheese is delicious!!! --------------------------------- Spring Pastel Butterfly Cupcakes Difficulty: Medium Time: 1hr (15min preparation, 25min cooking, 20min decoration) Number of servings: 8 small (1.7inches/4.3cm) muffin cups > read more
Tips to Enjoy Yakiniku Indoors (Japanese Grilled Meat / BBQ) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-31 09:33:00
In this video, I will show you how to enjoy Yakiniku indoors :D Last week, I won a package of beef at the recipe contest. And along with the beef, I received a letter with some tips to enjoy Yakiniku indoors and I never knew them! So, I will share those tips with you!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvktrBRSvyQ Yakiniku is mostly beef but you can make it with chicken or pork or meat of your > read more
Ikanago no Kugini 2012
Published on 2012-03-28 03:52:00
Again! I am posting this every year! LoL "Ikanago no Kugini" (いかなごのくぎ煮) is my favorite tsukudani (food boiled in soy sauce) made with Ikanago (sand eel/sand lance). No wonder, it goes great with white rice! Yummy :P Ikanago no Kugini is a famous Tsukudani in Hyogo prefecture. My grandma, who lives there cooks a few kilograms of Ikanago no Kugini every year for us in Tokyo. It is usually cooked > read more
Wasabi Guacamole Japonés (Japanese-Style) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-27 07:49:00
Cómo hacer guacamole Japonés muy fácil y delicioso! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8T-BKDFuNWw I used wasabi instead of chili, cayenne pepper, or any hot spices. Very simple and tasty, so I hope you like this idea :D --------------------------------- Wasabi Guacamole Japonés (Japanese-Style Wasabi Guacamole) Difficulty: Very Easy Time: 10min Number of servings: 2 people Ingredients: 1 > read more
Published on 2012-03-24 10:39:00
I started using Instagram and I love it :D I always take pics out of habit but not sharing anywhere, so this app is perfect to share such. I hope you understand what I mean. haha Please find "ochikeron" at Instagram ;) http://instagr.am/ ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron/ ♥ > read more
Tasty Simmered Pork and Chinese Cabbage Recipe - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-24 10:26:00
Slightly sweet and sour flavor is addictive ;) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SNxX0blTMk Chinese Cabbage (or Napa Cabbage) is a tasty low calorie food. We call it Hakusai (白菜) in Japanese. It is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, iron, carotene, etc… especially in the white part of the cabbage. Thus, the broth is rich in nutrients!!! No wonder, this is the perfect recipe for leftover > read more
Beef Sukiyaki (Japanese Nabe Hot Pot) Recipe - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-21 10:42:00
Sukiyaki is traditional and popular Japanese hot pot (nabemono) cooked with thinly sliced beef and some vegetables in soy based broth. It is usually cooked at the table and dipped into beaten fresh raw eggs to eat. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULYEbhdC52E Of course, you can make it with chicken or pork but beef is the best! --------------------------------- Sukiyaki (Japanese Nabe Hot Pot > read more
How to Make Hot Cake (Japanese Pancake) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-17 03:17:00
You will want to make this if you watch this ;) hehe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95dYm8M2o3w Hot Cake is Japanese pancake but it is bit sweeter and thicker than pancake. Morinaga's Hot Cake Mix is very popular product known for many years. If you follow the directions on its package, you can make gorgeous and fluffy Hot Cake, so I will show you how in this tutorial. Hot Cake Mix is > read more
White Day Gift
Published on 2012-03-14 22:21:00
My darling gave me LUSH bath bomb on White Day :D He knows what I love ♥ ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron/ ♥Please Click Below and Vote for me♥ > read more
YouTube Spotlight: White Day Recipes
Published on 2012-03-14 05:10:00
On 3/13, YouTube Japan spotlighted my White Day recipes :D FYI: On White Day (3/14) males who received a "honmei-choco" (chocolate of love) or "Giri-choco" (chocolate of courtesy) on Valentine's Day are expected to return the favor by giving gifts! Easy Sugar-Free Fresh Strawberry Tart (St. Patricks Day Recipe) 簡単苺タルト (レシピ) Flower Bouquet Cup Ice Cream (Recipe) フラワーカップアイスクリーム (レシピ) ♥ > read more
Mille-Feuille Tamagoyaki (Rolled Omelette) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-14 05:06:00
This is a cute idea for Tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelette). I made it to look like Mille-feuille, also known as the Napoleon (pastry originating in France). My darling doesn't like sweets but he loves bacon, so he was really happy with this idea :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A_Vci1i18RI FYI: Tamagoyaki (dashimakitamago or atsuyakitamago) is a Japanese rolled omelet. It is often served > read more
One Year After 311
Published on 2012-03-10 03:49:00
Tomorrow is 311. I will never forget the day. My idea to share my cooking with people in the world doesn't change since then! Thanks for subscribing to my YouTube Channel and thanks for liking Japanese foods! As always, I will make the best of everyday :) I am writing this today because I need to film the next recipes tomorrow and I will be busy all day long. hehe Thank you!!! LIVE NHK > read more
Ichigo Daifuku (Strawberry Mochi Rice Cake) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-10 03:21:00
Daifuku (大福: literally "great luck") is a traditional Japanese confectionery (和菓子 wagashi). It is a mochi (glutinous rice cake) stuffed with anko (azuki - red bean paste). Ichigo (strawberry) daifuku is a rice cake with strawberry and red bean paste filling. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xd3NLTsiMc In this tutorial, I will show you how to make Ichigo Daifuku using Kiri-mochi (square pieces > read more
Easy Sugar-Free Fresh Strawberry Tart - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-07 06:32:00
This tutorial will show you how to make a fruit tart from scratch! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4vTuHAxGpC0 Great recipe to try when the strawberries are in season ;) I used sugar substitute (to save calories) but you can of course use regular sugar. --------------------------------- Easy Sugar-Free Fresh Strawberry Tart Difficulty: Medium Time: 3hrs Number of servings: 6 Necessary > read more
Crispy Hina-Arare Cheese Truffles (Girl's Day) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-03-03 10:43:00
This is crispy truffles recipe using leftover hina-arare ;) March 3rd is Hinamatsuri (Japanese Doll Festival or Girls' Day). On this day, we set up hina dolls (hina-ningyo) that are believed to protect girls from bad luck. Hina dolls recipe is HERE ;) On Hinamatsuri, we eat colorful rice puffs called hina-arare. They commonly consists of three colors: pink, white, and green: pink represents > read more
Professional Eyeshadow Palette
Published on 2012-02-29 09:32:00
I decided not to do the bonus makeup video but the pro eyeshadow palette I bought was amazingly good! They all stay on really well :D BTW, this is hinamatsuri makeup! Check out my eyelids in my next video! It might be hard to realize, though... haha Hopefully I will upload it tomorrow!!! ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on > read more
Bacon Rolled Shrimp Saute - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-29 09:23:00
This recipe won the grand prize at the shrimp recipe contest that goes perfect with Kirin beer. The recipe was used for Kirin beer's promotions: recipe card, flyer, and store front promotional video! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0Snt5MxtMY Anyways, shrimp is my favorite food, so no wonder I love this recipe ;) --------------------------------- Bacon Rolled Shrimp Saute Difficulty: Very > read more
Gastroenteritis
Published on 2012-02-27 20:25:00
On Friday, my darling suddenly suffered from gastroenteritis. I didn't take it serious and let him go to bed but he groaned in his sleep all night. So, on Saturday morning, he went to see a doctor but he was still not getting a good sleep at night. (and so do I... I worried a lot!!!) Then on Sunday, he said he feels better, so I believed him but still he woke at night due to the pain... Luckily > read more
Easy Hinaningyo Rice Balls for Hinamatsuri (Girl's Day) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-23 09:49:00
The Japanese Doll Festival (Hinamatsuri), or Girls' Day, is held on March 3rd. On this day, we set up hina dolls (hina-ningyo) since they are believed to protect girls from bad luck. Platforms with red felt cloth (hi-mosen) are used to display a set of hina dolls. Those dolls consist of the Emperor (odairisama), Empress (ohinasama), three court ladies (sanninkanjyo), and five musicians ( > read more
Level 7 Earthquake Supposition in Tokyo... and My Thoughts...
Published on 2012-02-22 01:35:00
Since 311, there are still many news on the nuclear accident and the earthquake scenario. This morning, the news was about earthquake scenario. According to the seismographic observations in 300 areas in Tokyo, depth of hypocenter is expected to be shallower than it was expected before. Thus heavy damage is anticipated... sigh X( Every time I see this kind of news, I thank being alive TODAY > read more
Bite-Sized Cheese Cutlet Balls (Dango Kushikatsu) - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-21 08:40:00
This is a cute Cheese Kushikatsu (Pork Cutlet Balls) that looks like Dango (mochi dumplings on a stick)! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYcEYdMS1hQ Great for potluck party, bento, and snack! --------------------------------- Bite-Sized Cheese Cutlet Balls (Dango Kushikatsu) Difficulty: Easy Time: 15min Number of servings: 4 Ingredients: 8 thinly sliced pork 8 candy cheese (or diced > read more
Flower Bouquet Cup Ice Cream - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-19 08:40:00
This is a cute and delicious gift idea! It is common to give flowers as a gift, but how about giving a cup of ice cream with flower decorations?! That is going to be sooooooo sweet :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBWdFhMnDio He/She will be impressed by your thoughtful presentation ♥ --------------------------------- Flower Bouquet Cup Ice Cream Difficulty: easy Time: 10 min Number of > read more
Vegetable Teriyaki Beef Rolls (Korean Style) Recipe - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-15 02:36:00
Last month (2012/1/22), there was a nationwide recipe contest in Japan called レシピの女王 (Queen of Home Cooking). The contest was broadcast on TV in Japan (nationwide) on 2012/2/6! Thanks for those who watched it ;) Unfortunately, I couldn't go to the next stage but I met Iron Chef Sakai and Chef Chen! They were the judges :D They watched my YouTube video and said I should keep up my work! YouTube > read more
Cream Puffs
Published on 2012-02-14 20:37:00
Last night my darling bought me some cream puffs after work. He is so sweet :) Black sesame and rare cheese creams. Yummy! I cut them in halves to share, of course. hehe How was your Valentine's day?! Oh, mine was very busy editing the video. haha ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron > read more
Hair Salon Discounts
Published on 2012-02-13 07:38:00
First time is always cheap here in Japan. $42 bucks (75% off) included hair color, hair treatment, and hair cut. But actually I used $20 coupon which made me cost $22 bucks in total. BTW, I shot the next video today ;) ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron/ ♥Please Click Below and > read more
GRAND FOUR Happy Pig Chocolate
Published on 2012-02-12 07:18:00
So, what my darling gave me yesterday is this. Do you know that the pig represents good luck?! :D ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron/ ♥Please Click Below and Vote for me♥ > read more
Valentine World: Japanese Chocolate Gift Ideas
Published on 2012-02-11 07:38:00
Today my darling and I went to shop HDD in Shinjuku and found there was an event called "Valentine World" at Odakyu department store. Every year, they hold an event for Valentine's day selling collections of amazing chocolates with free tastings :D No wonder we stopped by there! I will show you the brochure ;) I tasted most of them! They were all amazingly delicious!!! I bought a > read more
LOVE Sushi (Chirashizushi) for Valentine's Day - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-09 11:33:00
Not knowing how easy this recipe is, everybody will think you are just unbelievable :P http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4aW0uaoXiNk Chirashizushi is sushi rice served on a plate or bowl topped with a variety of colorful toppings such as sashimi and garnishes. It is also known as scattered sushi. It is eaten annually on Hinamatsuri (ひなまつり) in March or for any special occasion such as birthday, > read more
Pan Fried Avocado - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-07 09:52:00
Simple yet delicious. Don't you have an experience selecting hard unripe avocado even if you have examined it carefully?! This is the perfect way of eating such a hard avocado! (The heat will make the avocado soft.) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V14bdNiBY20 I will show you 3 simple seasonings. I love them all, but my best is butter and soy sauce ;) BTW, butter is a must! haha If you have > read more
レシピの女王 - Queen of Home Cooking
Published on 2012-02-06 07:36:00
Last month, there was a nationwide recipe contest in Japan called レシピの女王 (Queen of Home Cooking). The contest was broadcast on TV in Japan (nationwide) today (2012/2/6)! Thanks for those who watched it ;) Unfortunately, I couldn't go to the next stage but I met Iron Chef Sakai and Chef Chen! They were the judges :D They watched my YouTube video and said I should keep it up! YouTube was nothing > read more
YouTube Spotlight Videos
Published on 2012-02-05 07:11:00
Today, my DECO CHOCO Photo Frame for Valentine's Day is selected as a Spotlight Video :D It is on YouTube JAPAN's homepage, not worldwide, though. I don't expect that many viewers, but thanks for watching!!! ♥Please Subscribe to my YouTube Channel♥ http://www.youtube.com/ochikeron ♥Please "Like" me on Facebook♥ http://www.facebook.com/Ochikeron/ ♥Please Click Below and Vote for me♥ > read more
Microwave Pudding - Video Recipe
Published on 2012-02-04 00:15:00
This video will show you how to make a Japanese Custard Pudding in a microwave! The recipe is very easy but please read my instructions carefully since the cooking time differs depending on the wattage and the microwave manufacturer. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pqL0K7W3lqA I really recommend you to use 500w microwave for this recipe because it becomes really spongy if you use higher wattage > read more
Crunchy Wakame Salad - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-29 22:58:00
New video is up now :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAGA-OIHWYc Thin slices of cucumber adds nice texture to the soft wakame salad. You can season it with the dressing of your choice! Japanese style is good but Italian is nice, too ;) ------- > read more
Takoyaki - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-28 18:47:00
New video is up now :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxW-qgj-x1E Takoyaki is a popular Japanese dumpling made of batter, diced octopus, tenkasu (tempura scraps), beni shoga (red pickled ginger), and aonegi (green onion), topped with okonomiyaki > read more
Witch hazel Toner
Published on 2011-06-28 18:34:00
This cell booster toner is pretty popular in Japan. I'm thinking of getting it in NY... what do you think?! I was so busy that I forgot to make a post yesterday. haha Please click below and vote for me. > read more
Cold or Hot Food?!
Published on 2011-06-26 18:59:00
On Saturday, the weather was cool, so my darling and I had sushi for dinner. The broiled saury was in season, so it was the best of all, but I forgot to take a pic :P When the weather is cold, I prefer to eat sushi, ice-cream (I like to eat it in > read more
Sobameshi Keema Curry - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-23 11:03:00
This video will show you how to make Sobameshi Keema Curry with yakisoba noodles and the seasoning packet (powder sauce). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drDZBzPKRcw Keema Curry is a curry made with minced meat and usually cooked with many differen > read more
Triple Frying Pan
Published on 2011-06-22 18:29:00
A months ago, I won a triple frying pan. I entered the campaign held by marumiya that you send the marumiya logo marks on their furikake packages. I have entered their similar campaigns for many times but never won anything, so this was my first time > read more
ochikeron Facebook Fan Page
Published on 2011-06-21 20:46:00
I just created the official Fan Page of ochikeron :D Please "Like" me♥ I will do my best! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ochikeron/168915784243 (somehow the first letter must be caps... Ochikeron) I once created this page in 2009 (if you see m > read more
Yakisoba - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-20 19:18:00
New video is up now :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JzVHnWghK5U Yakisoba is Japanese fried noodle. It is very easy and great recipe using leftover vegetables in your fridge! Yakisoba usually comes with yakisoba noodles and yakisoba seasoning pa > read more
La casa di Nao
Published on 2011-06-19 18:55:00
Good morning :D On the weekend I went to shop at Shibuya 109 again :D Yay!!! I really love clothes from One Spo, so after going up and down the shops (you know what I mean if you've been to 109 before. LoL) I decided to shop only at this store. hehe > read more
HEAD SPA HAND PRO
Published on 2011-06-16 18:18:00
This is something I use EVERY DAY!!! Few weeks ago, while shopping, my darling said he wants to buy this hand-like item. I first thought it is weird (not for me) but I said okay because I was in a good mood. LoL However, guess what!? This was a s > read more
Soy Banana Collagen Smoothie - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-15 18:48:00
I posted about this before but this is my every-day smoothie! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnMWD8DGOhQ I always buy bananas when they are on sale and freeze them. In this way they won't get ripe anymore and you can use them anytime you want. Put > read more
ECCO Low Table
Published on 2011-06-14 19:07:00
We still haven't bought the ALBERO sofa, but this is the ECCO coffee (low) table that we want. I liked the glass on top :D However I wonder why those low tables are so pricey... this one costs about 400 bucks!!! I looked for a cheap one, but the c > read more
Korokke (Croquette) - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-13 17:29:00
Korokke (Croquette) is a parcel of food such as minced meat or vegetables, shaped into a cylinder or circle, encased in breadcrumbs and deep fried. My mom always mixes minced meat and boiled eggs to add richness, which makes the croquette really addi > read more
iPad2
Published on 2011-06-12 18:24:00
My darling finally bought iPad2 and it arrived on the weekend :D I envy him!!! I own MacBook Pro and we both use iPhone (mine is still 3GS, though...). Anyways, we both love Apple ;D haha Please click below and vote for me. > read more
Love Heart Cutlet - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-09 19:38:00
I made a video of my favorite recipe :D My darling loves tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) and he also loves sausage! So, I combined them together and made cute bite-size heart-shaped cutlets. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C13h7GRUUtY It's really ea > read more
Loco's TABLE MAHANA
Published on 2011-06-08 18:20:00
For our 8th anniversary celebration, we've been to a Hawaiian restaurant called Loco's TABLE MAHANA in Ebisu :D Dinner here is really Hawaiian with flowers and tropical seasonings :) Loco Moco rice bowl is a must order dish! And unexpectedly, the > read more
8th Anniversary on New York Time
Published on 2011-06-07 20:05:00
8 years ago, on 6/8, I met my darling at my friend's party!!! It was right at this time in New York (EST)! hehe So tonight, we are going out for a dinner. Ya===y :D We have many anniversaries over the next few months. Are your anniversaries conse > read more
Osakana Kuwaeta Doraneko - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-06-06 18:55:00
Hello! This video will show you a kawaii (cute) idea of presenting Wagashi (Japanese sweets)! I am using Dorayaki - consists of two small pancakes with azuki (sweet red bean paste) filling and Taiyaki - fish-shaped sweet cake with azuki filling. ht > read more
KYODO406 and My Artwork LOL
Published on 2011-06-05 18:40:00
Summer is really here today! It is too hot though we must save on electricity in consequence of the earthquake X( Anyways, on the weekend we finally were treated with good foods! (We eat out once on the weekend but the other 2 weekends were not real > read more
Rice Haul for a Healthy Diet
Published on 2011-06-03 02:57:00
We Japanese don't simply cook white rice but we add something in addition. There are many different kinds of rice products in Japan. In this video, I will show you what I love to add in my rice daily with a quick tutorial :) http://www.youtube.com/ > read more
My Accomplishments
Published on 2011-06-01 21:00:00
For those of you who know my routine monthly updates, it's already June!!! Here are my accomplishments in May :D On 5/7, my Enoki Tantan Rice Bowl won a grand prix at mushrooms recipe contest. Tantan refers to the sesame based hot foods, such as Ta > read more
Beef Beer Curry and Rice - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-31 19:43:00
Another video is up :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nusdJYSErw In Japan, we use "curry roux" to make curry and rice. There are many different kinds of curry roux. In my tutorial, I used Golden Curry (Medium-Spicy) by S&B. It is made with 35 > read more
Last Day
Published on 2011-05-30 18:51:00
I used all my paid leaves to date. I thought quitting the job would give me more time but it was impossible. hahaha A month was pretty fast and I found I have a lot of things to do!!! Last Friday, I went to work to see my co-workers for the last tim > read more
Kampai Omurice - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-29 19:37:00
Quite some time ago, I made a funny omurice, if you remember! Those fingers are sausages! I drew nails and the beer foam using mayonnaise. Simple but entertaining! Kampai (乾杯) means "cheers" in Japanese! Omurice is a fried rice wrapped with t > read more
Abnormal Weather in Japan
Published on 2011-05-26 18:47:00
The rainy season has started in Japan. It was 20 days earlier than last year. We see rain marks on the weekly weather forecast in Tokyo X( And another abnormal weather we have is that the typhoon #1 passed by the Japanese continent earlier this mo > read more
YouTube Medal?!
Published on 2011-05-25 18:46:00
Yesterday, I saw a gold medal on my YouTube channel "temporarily". LoL I hope it is not the first and last time to see it. (It always displays in Japanese and can't change the language in my account, maybe because I live in Japan, but do you see m > read more
Healthy Microwave Okonomiyaki - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-24 19:05:00
This is an award winning recipe :D Silicon tools are now popular in Japan. There was a contest using a microwavable silicon pot and I won a grand prize! You can substitute it with a deep microwavable deep dish or container, of course. I hope all in > read more
Olympus E-500 5th Anniversary
Published on 2011-05-23 18:05:00
Today is the 5th Anniversary of my "Olympus E-500" (single-lens reflex) :D 5 years ago, my favorite camera Canon IXY DIGITAL L broke, so I decided to get the Olympus SLR with ZUIKO DIGITAL 35mm F3.5 Macro. Since I couldn't live without a camera, I > read more
California Roll - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-22 19:57:00
New video is up! I used to work as a waitress at a Japanese restaurant in the U.S. and learned how to make California Roll, looking at the chefs ;) hehe http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQZEf3NCCo4 --------------------------------- California Roll > read more
Onigiri - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-19 18:55:00
New video is up :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFyfPvo97XQ Rice ball is called "Onigiri" in Japanese. Mostly it's shape is triangle and you can either mix ingredients into rice or fill your favorite ingredient in the rice ball, or both! There > read more
One of my Daily Routines
Published on 2011-05-18 19:46:00
After we moved, I made up some routines to clean my house in order not to get lazy… I gave up cleaning my old home and I learned a lot! I'm glad it was a rent. haha Anyways, I use Quickle Wiper to clean the floor. It's a dust-collecting mop which > read more
Afternoon Tea Failed X'(
Published on 2011-05-17 18:34:00
On the weekend, my darling and I've been to Futakotamagawa (again) to have the three-tiered afternoon tea of my dream! However I erroneously assumed that the Afternoon Tea TEAROOM has the three-tiered menu… just because it's name is afternoon tea > read more
Whole Fruit Jelly
Published on 2011-05-16 18:08:00
My darling and I sometimes try out whole fruit jelly. This kind is pretty pricey (costs about $4 each) so we always get one and share in case if it tasted awful. So far we tried apple and orange and both were delicious!!! Apple Red Wine Jelly produc > read more
Onion Potato Miso Soup - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-15 17:35:00
Another video recipe is up! I asked my darling what kind of miso soup he wants to eat and he said "onion potato", and yes, my mom cooks this miso soup, too! I think these are pretty popular Japanese miso soup ingredients. I added bacon which gives r > read more
Confidence
Published on 2011-05-14 09:32:00
What does Confidence mean to you?! Where do you get your confidence from?! Confidence is important in anything you do… when talking with people (even with friends), when at work (presentation, etc…), and for me, when cooking, too! I started to > read more
Microwave Chocolate Chip Cookies - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-11 20:54:00
Another video recipe is done :D I put chocolate chips in my cookies. Yum Yummy!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IoLStf_-HgU I prefer butter to shortening for cookies. How about you?! hehe --------------------------------- Microwave Chocolate Ch > read more
Wet Wipe Strategy
Published on 2011-05-10 19:30:00
After the meal, I always tell my darling to wipe down the table but he really hates to do that... It is just about to wring out the kitchen towel, but he seldom does that while I get mad... The same thing for the toilet bowl X( I'm pretty scared to > read more
ALBERO Sofa
Published on 2011-05-09 18:52:00
We finally found the sofa we want!!! We happened to find it when we shopped in Yokohama. We've already been to IKEA and many other furniture shops but we couldn't find the one we want while seriously looking for it. So this was a result from a cha > read more
My Accomplishments
Published on 2011-05-08 19:14:00
Here are my accomplishments in April. I'm glad I do have some to post since I didn't have enough time to apply for the contests in March because we moved... The first one was actually the award from 2/15. The result was recently released on the web > read more
Sauteed Pork With Salt Sauce - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-05-07 09:52:00
New video is up now :D This is one of my popular recipes! At this moment, more than 1400 people have photo reported and said they liked it, so please try it out if you get a chance :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6kRuK-pIY3E It takes me a day t > read more
PIPICA BODY WASH
Published on 2011-05-05 18:30:00
My darling hates when I buy something pink and cute for the things we share. So, that's why I don't get any girly pink body wash or shampoo... of course no pink furniture at home! However, if it comes to penguin or any kind of "birds", my darling ag > read more
Pink Bunny Hello Kitty
Published on 2011-05-05 08:45:00
I bought a new Pink Bunny Hello Kitty cell charm! Do you remember my Pink Jeweled Eyes Hello Kitty? After only 5 months, it really got dirty like a duster as expected X( So I bought a new one! I know it's white face will get dirty in a snap, bu > read more
As My Hun Sees Me… LOL
Published on 2011-05-04 09:00:00
Tonight, we've been to a new shopping malls in Futakotamagawa: Rise and Dogwood Plaza. They both were clean and gorgeous but most things were pricey so we just enjoyed window-shopping :P For dinner, we found yakitori izakaya (skewered chicken restau > read more
Royal Wing Lunch Cruise in Yokohama
Published on 2011-05-03 09:59:00
Today my darling and I went to Yokohama and enjoyed a Royal Wing Lunch Cruise - 飲茶 (dim sum)! My mom gave us the free lunch tickets while ago ;) hehe After lunch, there was a balloon sculpture demonstration. They took our pics with my camer > read more
GRANDBERRY MALL and WIRED KITCHEN
Published on 2011-05-02 09:47:00
Today, my darling and I went shopping at GRANDBERRY MALL as planned! I wore a dress from one spo which I bought yesterday! It's my recent favorite brand XD Unfortunately, I didn't find anything special at the mall but cute underwear. hehe We the > read more
Just Because Pink x Hello Kitty
Published on 2011-05-01 09:00:00
I now used all of my face-wash and was looking for a new one. I finally bought Rosette Hello Kitty cleansing wash and collagen wash that have been on my mind for a long time. I don't know how good these are but just because Pink x Hello Kitty :P W > read more
Pasta Pomodoro with Home-Made Basil
Published on 2011-04-30 09:39:00
My mom gave my darling a planter of basil for his belated birthday gift. I don't know why she gave him the basil, but my darling liked it :) Today, he picked some leaves, so I cooked pasta pomodoro with basil for lunch! Yummy :P We once tried > read more
Buso Marathon and RAKERU Lunch
Published on 2011-04-29 03:35:00
This morning, my darling and I completed 10km (6 miles) Buso Marathon! At the end, we received a certificate, which is cool :D Maybe we can try a half marathon (20km) someday! For lunch, we had omurice at RAKERU. suki told me their omurice is goo > read more
Juicy Tender Simmered Eggplant - Video Recipe
Published on 2011-04-27 19:47:00
New video is up now :D http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3ZcVgJtU1Q I thank to all my friends who watched my videos. I know it is hard and takes time to generate traffic but I want to focus more on the content as usual like I write my blog posts! An > read more
Char-Grilled Anago
Published on 2011-04-26 18:37:00
I think some of you now know that I'm crazy about Anago (conger eel)! My grandpa used to catch tons of Anago and char-grilled them for us. I remember I ate more than ten of them at once! mmm yummy!!! But things had changed and just before my gran > read more
Incipio MacBook Shell Case Review
Published on 2011-04-25 18:32:00
So far, I am very satisfied with my Incipio MacBook Pro 15in Feather Ultralight Hard Shell Case! It really keeps my spirits up while working :) And yes! Even I am spending more time on my video creation, I will keep up my blog because I just fo > read more
How to Cook Steamed White Rice (Gohan)
Published on 2011-04-24 18:00:00
Last night, I completed the first video showing you How to Cook Steamed White Rice (Gohan)! --------------------------------- How to Cook Steamed White Rice (Gohan) Difficulty: Super Easy Time: approx. 30min Number of servings: 4 (2 cups of rice) > read more
Home Renovation - Pro Pics
Published on 2011-04-23 09:57:00
I finally uploaded our renovation pictures taken by a professional photographer on facebook!!! Actually the photographer took the pics on the day of the huge quake (3/11). omg... *Renovation Updates* - Completed - 7th Week - 6th Week - 5th Week - > read more
Introduction to my Channel
Published on 2011-04-20 19:59:00
Some of you may already know that I am going to leave my job on May 31st. I have been working at a trading company for 7 years but after the huge quake in Miyagi, I thought it's end of Japan (and I think many people did thought in the same way...) So > read more
Wrong Belief
Published on 2011-04-19 20:46:00
To tell the truth, I don't like Japanese (as a subject). I remember my parents used to worry about my Japanese language when I came back to Japan at 5th grade of elementary school because we used to live overseas (in Jordan) for 6 years. Back then, > read more
PACCO Dining Set
Published on 2011-04-18 20:30:00
On Saturday, our new dining set (PACCO) has arrived! I am new to the mac world, so it took me so long to edit these pictures... Yesterday I shoot a video of our home but again taking me long to edit it with iMovie. Hopefully, I'll upload it > read more
Gulliver's Travels
Published on 2011-04-17 19:06:00
Gulliver's Travels just came out on Friday (2011/4/15) in Japan. Travel writer Lemuel Gulliver (Jack Black) takes an assignment in Bermuda, but ends up on the island of Lilliput, where he towers over its tiny citizens. So, on Saturday, my darlin > read more
Belief
Published on 2011-04-14 22:45:00
Many people lost hope after the quake because of losing their family, friends, homes, jobs, money, and everyday things we take for granted. Under such circumstance of nothing, one of the things that give hope for their future is belief that things > read more
SPAM Comments from Your Smart Kitchen...
Published on 2011-04-14 19:27:00
Your Smart Kitchen writes skillful comments on my blog. I first didn't realize they were SPAM because their comments were somewhat related to my posts. But one thing that made me stop and think was they always post with a different name with the same > read more
My Mom's Juicy Tender Simmered Eggplant
Published on 2011-04-13 22:59:00
This is very simple but my favorite dish that my mom cooks ;) It's a sweet soy sauce flavor (kind of teriyaki flavor) that goes perfect with white rice. Perfect for your bento okazu (side dish), too!!! --------------------------------- My Mom's J > read more
Karaoke Addiction
Published on 2011-04-13 19:10:00
I've become addicted to karaoke when I was a high school student. I couldn't afford to go there that often at that time but I remember I went there after finals with my friends for more than 3 hours! My darling unfortunately doesn't like to go kar > read more
Mayo Curry Stir-Fried Diced Potatoes and Sausages
Published on 2011-04-12 22:43:00
My darling loves curry flavor and so does the most Japanese kids ;) Mayonnaise makes the dish mild and rich! Potatoes and sausages in my fridge perfectly matched this flavor and became heavenly delicious!!! This recipe was published in a food magazi > read more
Asparagus Kanitama
Published on 2011-04-11 22:22:00
Kanitama (芙蓉蟹) is a Chinese omelette with crab meat topped with sweet and sour sauce. It is very popular home-cooked meal in Japan. You can add any kind of mushrooms and/or vegetables, but today I will show you mine adding asparagus. The rich f > read more
Cherry-Blossom Viewing
Published on 2011-04-10 22:30:00
On Sunday, we went out for a walk (9km - 5.5miles) to see the cherry blossoms. They were already in full bloom!!! I have been really busy lately, so I didn't realize that this season has arrived already. However, we have blustery winds and heavy > read more
Addictive Japanese Croquette
Published on 2011-04-07 23:01:00
Croquette is a parcel of food such as minced meat or vegetables, shaped into a cylinder or circle, encased in breadcrumbs and deep fried. My mom always mixes minced meat and boiled eggs to add richness, which makes the croquette really addictive! My > read more
Incipio MacBook Pro 15in Feather Ultralight Hard Shell Case
Published on 2011-04-06 21:37:00
I was looking for a case for my MacBook Pro lately and found a cute pink (magenta) one by Incipio! This pink color is just the pink I love, so I bought it without question. It was pretty pricey, so I hope I get what I want. Actually, I was in bet > read more
Starbucks Logo Change
Published on 2011-04-05 19:40:00
On April 1st, 2011, Starbucks Coffee Japan made a change to their logo! I completely forgot about it but realized on the weekend when I had a coffee there! Did the logo change in your country already? Please click below and vote for me. > read more
Happy 36th!!!
Published on 2011-04-04 23:27:00
Now my darling is 36 years old. I met him when he was 28. Time flies!!! Since 4/4 was a weekday, I couldn't prepare much for his birthday but some cakes! I simply wanted to let him blow out the candles on his birthday so I bought them on my way home > read more
E Ku'u Lei Onaona @ You Tube
Published on 2011-04-03 19:00:00
E Ku'u Lei Onaona means "my fragrant lei". Lei is likened to the loved one. It's again a Hawaiian love song. As usual, I posted it on my YouTube account. This time, I used my NEW HD video camera! I hope you enjoy!!! I will only share this video wit > read more
My Accomplishments
Published on 2011-03-31 19:10:00
Time flies! One quarter of the year has passed already!!! Again, I will list my accomplishments last month and one that was not yet listed for Feb. On 2/10, my Yurine Clam Chowder Soup received the award for excellence at Hokkaido Asahibeer's conte > read more
My Decision
Published on 2011-03-31 19:00:00
After the quake, my mind is made up. I worked at my current workplace for about 7 years, but now I am leaving there to start what I believe is good for me and possibly for Japan. I gave the notice last month, so I am officially leaving in the end > read more
Lipton Limone C
Published on 2011-03-30 23:17:00
This 500ml bottled Lipton Limone C (lemon tea) contains a day's worth of vitamin C (100mg), and surprisingly, it is ZERO calorie! Amazing, huh?! It's a quite refreshing, sweet and sour lemon tea, that I have bought it for 3 times this week. LoL I > read more
One Lovely Blog Award
Published on 2011-03-29 22:18:00
I have been awarded the "One Lovely Blog Award" by grub of grub-town! Thanks!!! She's an arts student in Melbourne, studying Japanese, too. She snaps very natural, soft, and relaxing photographs which makes me think she's a mature lady. hehe. I love > read more
Ikanago no Kugini 2011
Published on 2011-03-28 23:06:00
I am posting this every year! LoL Ikanago no Kugini is my favorite tsukudani (food boiled in soy sauce) made with Ikanago (sand eel/sand lance). I really can't stop myself eating it with white rice! Yummy :P Ikanago no Kugini is a famous Tsukudan > read more
Our New Favorite Places
Published on 2011-03-27 22:48:00
As you might know, my darling and I (actually I...) love to have a steady routine because I don't get bored of doing the same things :P Of course, I add some new things but not necessarily frequent. LoL What we found near our new home is a jog spot! > read more
竹生島神社 (Chikubushima Shrine)
Published on 2011-03-24 22:57:00
竹生島神社 (Chikubushima Shrine) is one of the shrines located in 竹生島 (Chikubushima Island) on 琵琶湖 (Lake Biwa). Four gods are enshrined: 市杵島比売命 (ichikisimahimenomikoto) - god for traffic safety and good luck, 宇賀福神 > read more
Japan Quake Map
Published on 2011-03-23 19:27:00
Japan Quake Map is pretty scary. If you select "Friday 11/03/11" and wait till after 14PM, you will see how severe the 9.0 magnitude 2011 Tōhoku earthquake was and how frequently we have aftershocks... Since 3/11, we had 738 quakes in Japan!!! > read more
Work Desk
Published on 2011-03-22 22:46:00
My dream was to have my own kitchen. Of course, my darling has a dream to have his own work desk at home!!! I hope I can get one for his birthday on 4/4 ;) We are almost ready to proceed with our own projects. Good luck to us!!! P.S. I will re > read more
What "We" or "I" Can Do Now...
Published on 2011-03-21 22:30:00
What we can do now is to save on electricity (because we lack electricity due to the nuclear power plant disaster) or stop stocking up on foods and supplies (many people do this on fears of the next disaster so the things come up short when someone i > read more
Before and After the Move
Published on 2011-03-21 04:09:00
On 3/16, we moved into our new home. We did most of the packing when the movers came since we were quite at a loss... LoL However, we minimalized our stuff and threw away unnecessary stuff. I think we made more than 50 trash bags in total! Whew... > read more
Renovation Completed!!!
Published on 2011-03-21 03:56:00
On 3/12, the day after the Miyagi Quake, our renovation was completed. In the midst of the afterquakes, we made final checks... how scary X( But, my darling and I were thoroughly delighted with the finish, except we found some scratches on the floor > read more
2 Days After the Miyagi Quake
Published on 2011-03-13 08:43:00
The Miyagi quake was the most severe earthquake in Japanese history, a magnitude of 9! Still 20,000 people are missing... We are still experiencing the afterquake in Tokyo and the largest of 7-magnitude afterquake is predicted to come in 3 days. How > read more
LIVE NHK Broadcast of Earthquakes
Published on 2011-03-11 02:15:00
For Japanese who live overseas. Live TV : Ustream It's still shaking!!! At 7PM, most trains in Tokyo stopped the services. Foods are about to sold out. OMG!!! It's better to spend a night at work. Luckily, I have my toothbrush ;) Please click > read more
MORE Earthquakes!!!!!!!
Published on 2011-03-11 00:12:00
I just ran out of the building and came back into the office again because our office is quakeproof and janitor told us to stay in... But it's still shaking. Should I go out again?! I heard it was 6-magnitude again in Miyagi... but was the center > read more
Our Current Home
Published on 2011-03-09 23:21:00
Believe it or not, we will be living in a new home this time next week! Time flies!!! In 2004, almost 7 years ago, we came back from NY and moved into the current home in Tokyo. These are the pics we took back then. We chose this flat because I love > read more
Earthquake in Miyagi Prefecture
Published on 2011-03-09 20:32:00
A powerful 7.2-magnitude earthquake hit Miyagi prefecture in Japan at around 11:45 AM yesterday (3/9/2011). Then again, 4-magnitude afterquake hit this morning at around 6:24 AM. Fortunately, no big damage is reported. Tokyo was away from the earthq > read more
How to Choose the Right Color
Published on 2011-03-08 21:56:00
One thing I want to get before the removal is a new rug. We haven't yet bought sofa and dining set, so at least we have a rug, we can sit on the floor! Last week, we found a nice rug at store at a reasonable price. They come in 4 colors: ivory, beig > read more
かつくら (Katsukura)
Published on 2011-03-07 21:49:00
When my darling and I are tired, we crave for Japanese food! One of our favorite Japanese restaurants is かつくら (Katsukura). They serve sophisticated tonkatsu (deep-fried breaded pork cutlet) from Kyoto. If you order tonkatsu at かつくら > read more
Renovation Updates: 7th Week
Published on 2011-03-06 23:35:00
Last week was the 7th week. We found some parts to be fixed, but the renovation was almost done. Wallpaper was applied to all rooms and all the fittings were set. My photo was not good... but kitchen is done beautifully! I forgot to take photo > read more
MacBook Pro Debut!!!
Published on 2011-03-06 23:09:00
Believe it or not, on Saturday, while shopping the ceiling lights at an electronics retail store, I happened to find MacBook Pro 15" on sale, which was limited to 5 people and there were only 3 left. Actually, those on sale were the previous model > read more
Yummy Salty Tofu
Published on 2011-03-03 21:29:00
On 2/13, my "Yummy Salty Tofu" ranked the 1st on Lettuce Club's website. Salt, sesame oil, and garlic really work up the appetite! I used momen-dofu (cotton tofu) which is pretty filling! It's a dish to go with sake or beer, too :D Please try it out > read more
Crispy Hina-Arare Cheese Truffles
Published on 2011-03-02 21:02:00
March 3rd is Hinamatsuri (Japanese Doll Festival or Girls' Day). On this day, we set up hina dolls (hina-ningyo) that are believed to protect girls from bad luck. Those dolls consist of the Emperor (odairisama), Empress (ohinasama), three court ladie > read more
Blue Screen of Death
Published on 2011-03-02 18:48:00
Last night, the Blue Screen of Death (the image from Wikipedia) came out unexpectedly on our 6-year-old FMV-DESKPOWER. (This was the latest PC with a built-in TV back then.) It really frightened me a lot and the very first question I came up was: Wh > read more
My Accomplishments
Published on 2011-03-01 18:26:00
Hi! Time to list my accomplishments again! On 2/5, I attended the award ceremony of 青の洞窟 (Ao no Doukutsu) idea recipe contest. I happened to appear on the news article, too. (I'm wearing the blue cardigan.) The result page was released on 2/ > read more
How to Pronounce "R" and "L" in English
Published on 2011-02-28 18:02:00
As you might know, Japanese people can't pronounce "R" and "L" correctly... My darling is studying English every day for about 25min using Skype and of course he has the same problem. While at cafe, he showed me the Mouth Positions for R and L Soun > read more
Renovation Updates: 6th Week
Published on 2011-02-27 21:46:00
Last week was the 6th week and my kitchen was placed! I heard that the kitchen counter was so big that it didn't fit into the elevator, so the carpenter wrestled it up stairs! Thanks goodness X( We will apply the ECOCARAT on this side wall (image > read more
NEW MacBook Pro with Thunderbolt I/O
Published on 2011-02-24 21:27:00
Amazing news!!! Yesterday, new MacBook Pro was released, incorporating Intel's new Thunderbolt (formerly codenamed Light Peak) technology into the device. Thunderbolt pipeline is more than 12 times faster than FireWire 800 and up to 20 times faste > read more
Renovation Updates: 5th Week
Published on 2011-02-24 21:15:00
My post is one week behind but last week was the 5th week of the renovation and our walls and ceilings (construction) were done. All the fittings were framed and set. We fitted up some of the furniture in the room to save space! This week, my k > read more
Creativity is the key to Business Success
Published on 2011-02-23 21:43:00
Can I be proud of myself today?! LoL. In 2001, I graduated from college with degrees in Fine Art and Business Management. Also minored in Computer Science. Recently, I came across the post that refers to one of the Harvard Business School's Breakth > read more
Christchurch Earthquake
Published on 2011-02-22 22:27:00
Yesterday (on 2/22), a strong 6.3-magnitude earthquake hit Christchurch in New Zealand at 12:51pm local time, after 7.0 earthquake on 9/4/2010. Police now have confirmed that 75 people have been killed and still 300 people missing. As you know, Japa > read more
Mac or Win
Published on 2011-02-21 21:51:00
I am a Windows user. The latest Mac I own is ibook G3. LoL. Nevertheless, I have used my FUJITSU desktop PC for more than 6 years, so now I am thinking of getting a new one. Maybe a laptop because I believe they are now fast enough to do the video e > read more
Weekend Shopping
Published on 2011-02-21 00:21:00
On Saturday, my darling and I finally decided on getting home electric appliances!!! Before we leave home, we called the electronics retail stores to compare prices. In Japan, you can negotiate the price at any major electronics retail store if you c > read more
Renovation Updates: 4th Week
Published on 2011-02-18 00:29:00
Before it gets old, I will update the 4th week progress! The base for the double flooring was done. As you can see below, all the pipes are placed underneath. Kitchen side wall (for the water pipes) and double ceiling (for the air pipe) are almos > read more
ECOCARAT
Published on 2011-02-17 21:52:00
Despite our budget, we decided to apply the accent wall, simply because it is the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. LoL What we chose is a healthy breathing wall called ECOCARAT by INAX. Cream beige bricks are our choice for the living room. We expect > read more
Do You Have Any Rival?!
Published on 2011-02-17 20:36:00
I hate to admit it but many of my cooking friends are in great success. They inspire me a lot but at the same time I get frustrated with myself. I always think I need to try hard (look for new challenges) to expand my possibilities... because what I > read more
HITACHI Frost Recycling Vacuum Compartment Refrigerator
Published on 2011-02-17 00:16:00
On the weekend, my darling and I went to an electronics retail store, hoping to upgrade our current fridge-freezer at the time of the removal! What interested me the most is HITACHI's Frost Recycling Vacuum Compartment Refrigerator model. The "Va > read more
10 Million Visitors!!!!!!!
Published on 2011-02-15 19:05:00
On 2/11, my Cookpad recipe page reached 10 million visitors!!! Cookpad is the biggest recipe site in Japan. I only update my page once a week but endurance makes you stronger. Thank you!!! I will keep up at my own pace :D Please click below and > read more
BEARD PAPA'S Fondant au Chocolat
Published on 2011-02-14 23:24:00
My darling bought me BEARD PAPA'S Fondant au Chocolat for Valentine's Day! It uses the best chocolate for fondant au chocolat to bring out the rich finish! If you eat it as is, you can enjoy the richness of the chocolate. mmmmmmmm :) Of course, yo > read more
Mario i Sentieri
Published on 2011-02-14 23:12:00
Mario i Sentieri is an Italian restaurant in Nishiazabu. Few weeks ago, I met the owner Italian chef Mario Frittoli at 青の洞窟 (Ao no Doukutsu - blue cave) idea recipe contest held there. Yesterday, he called me for lunch. He was such a busy pe > read more
Happy Valentine's Day
Published on 2011-02-13 18:16:00
This year, I got a small picture-book card for my darling for Valentine's Day. It is not about love but about my feelings that I always want to stand by him to support him. Actually, I got it a month ago because it was just the card I wanted! hehe :) > read more
Love Heart Chocolate Corn Dogs for Valentines Day
Published on 2011-02-09 23:14:00
Looking for a cute non-sweet chocolate recipe for Valentines Day?! This is non-sweet cocoa taste corn dogs. I created this for my darling who LOVE's sausage but not the sweets :) I used Hot Cake Mix for the batter to save time. Hot Cake Mix is a pr > read more
Renovation Updates: 2nd & 3rd Week
Published on 2011-02-08 22:02:00
The 1st week was simply the torn down. Although there were some issues on our renovation plans, everything is going fine now. Last week, we couldn't visit our place but the contractor kindly sent us some updates for 2nd & 3rd week. Bathroom and > read more
GOPAN
Published on 2011-02-07 23:16:00
GOPAN is the world's first rice bread cooker by Sanyo, that can easily bake "rice bread" from rice grains. It was released on 11/11/2010. Sanyo made it possible after four years of trial and error! As you might know, rice is the staple of Japan. B > read more
青の洞窟 Award Ceremony
Published on 2011-02-06 07:58:00
On 2/5 (Sat.), my darling and I attended the award ceremony of 青の洞窟 idea recipe contest. 青の洞窟 (Ao no Doukutsu - blue cave) is one of the pasta brands of Nissin Foods. The contest was to cook spaghetti in ONE pan using 青の洞窟 spa > read more
Aji no Mingei
Published on 2011-02-03 20:04:00
Aji no Mingei is well known as a handmade udon restaurant. My darling and I go there once in a while because hot udon in winter warms us up. Also their Japanese style decors make us feel at home :D As you can see, their dish is really huge. This is > read more
Eho-Maki
Published on 2011-02-02 20:13:00
It's time to make a wish again :D February 3rd is Setsubun. It is the day before the beginning of Risshun (spring season). On Setsubun, we cleanse away all the evil of the former year and drive away disease-bringing evil spirits for the year to come > read more
My Accomplishments
Published on 2011-02-02 00:52:00
Hi there! Time flies. As usual, these are my accomplishments in January. On 1/8, my Edible La-Yu Shimeji received the honorable mention at shio-navi.com. shio-navi.com is the site to search & learn & evaluate about many different kinds of sa > read more
Cookpad VS Rakuten
Published on 2011-01-31 23:07:00
Cookpad is the biggest recipe site in Japan, and have 920,000 recipe posts, 8 million visitors per day. However, in October 2010, Rakuten (Japan's No.1 shopping site: currently 70 million users) have launched the same business called 楽天レシ > read more
pomera
Published on 2011-01-31 01:13:00
pomera is a portable digital typewriter. With this device, you can ONLY write the text, so you can concentrate on writing! I use pomera (DM20) to write my recipe. I can write faster without the Internet distraction ;) hehe! Anyway, I always ask > read more
Stir-Fried Ginger Pork and Cabbage
Published on 2011-01-28 00:05:00
I love cabbage because it is cheap and healthy! This recipe is the absolute best use of cabbage. The cabbage blends together well with the pork and adds volume to the dish! A hint of ginger makes it more healthy and appetizing. It goes perfect with > read more
IH Rice Cooker
Published on 2011-01-26 23:16:00
After many years, I finally won an IH (Induction Heating) Rice Cooker at the contest!!! What I currently own is a micom (microcomputer) rice cooker. It is an electric rice cooker using direct heating method calculated by a built-in computer. The h > read more
The New Starbucks Logo
Published on 2011-01-25 22:22:00
I finally got a chance to post about this! Did you already read about the news (on Jan 5th, 2011) that Starbucks would make a change to their company's logo, removing the Starbucks word-mark around the siren and enlarging the siren image itself from > read more
EVOLG
Published on 2011-01-24 18:30:00
As I wrote before, EVOLG are the gloves that enable touch panel operation! I got them online for my darling for Christmas (the black ones) and were really convenient, so I bought another pair for myself :D Since they come in free sizes, they are > read more
7 Issues on our Renovation
Published on 2011-01-24 00:18:00
Last week, we had our condo rooms torn down. Then on Saturday, we had a meeting with our contractor to talk about the renovation issues. Lucky or not, there were 7 of them X( #1. Flooring As I wrote before, we have to lift 10cm to apply the wood > read more
Bite-Size Jap Style Tonkatsu
Published on 2011-01-21 00:58:00
New recipe is up today! I rolled up a slice of pork with bacon and Japanese flavors: shiso leaf (Japanese basil) and umeboshi paste (pickled plum paste)! Actually, this tonkatsu has a pronounced flavor without any sauce (unlike the image). Needless > read more
変身写真
Published on 2011-01-19 20:01:00
For our next trip overseas, I wish to visit 台湾 (Taiwan)! Day before yesterday I had a dinner with my ex-coworker and she showed me some pics taken at a photo studio in 台北 (Taipei) and were amazing!!! It is called 変身写真. You can be like > read more
What's Your Passion?
Published on 2011-01-18 21:08:00
Lately, I found this question on Kym's post with an awesome quote. "Passion is a pre-requisite. Without passion, you won't be successful. But you can't be stupidly passionate, you have to do your homework" Needless to say, I have a passion for co > read more
Distracted...
Published on 2011-01-17 21:00:00
Distracted by my own thought for the renovation (flooring), I sliced my hand (my thumb) with a slicer. OUCH!!! My darling says there is never any need for ME to worry about it, but the contractor... yeah... I know! I am always like this X( I once > read more
Start Date of Renovation and my Worries...
Published on 2011-01-16 23:37:00
Today, our long-awaited renovation starts. I thought we were well prepared but my worries never seem to end X( On Saturday, we went to see our new home once again before the renovation starts and realized that the height of the ceiling is not high e > read more
The Social Network
Published on 2011-01-16 08:09:00
On Saturday, my darling asked me to watch the movie called "The Social Network" which just came out on Saturday (1/15) in Japan. I was not that interested in the movie at first, but the movie was quite interesting!!! The film is about Mark Zuckerber > read more
900 Recipes
Published on 2011-01-13 20:45:00
Wow! When this screen popped out, I realized that I have posted 900 recipes on my Cookpad (Japan's largest recipe site) account! To tell the truth, I have double the number of the recipes at home since I post my recipes on other sites, too. As you m > read more
Got a Home as of Today!
Published on 2011-01-13 02:17:00
This morning, we took a half day off from our work and officially bought our new home! The condo after 25 years cannot receive the housing loan tax credit but our real estate acquisition tax was partly exempt, which was good!!! Anyway, I think our c > read more
断捨離 (danshari)
Published on 2011-01-11 21:22:00
断捨離 (danshari) means to throw away unnecessary stuff. It's one of the keywords of the recent years in Japan. "断" (dan) - to cut out unnecessary stuff. ex) receipts, shopping bags, coupons, etc... "捨" (sha) - to throw away junk. ex) clothe > read more
Good Luck Longevity Noodle
Published on 2011-01-10 21:54:00
Aji no Mingei (味の民芸) is well known as a handmade udon restaurant. My darling and I go there once in a while because all their menus are big, inexpensive, and delicious! Last year, I had a "Good Luck Shrimp Tempura Udon" and was pretty good, > read more
Dry Eyes
Published on 2011-01-06 20:37:00
Do you have good vision? Yes, I do! But somehow, my vision started to get blurry recently... In addition, I couldn't keep my eyes open, so I thought I've got an eye strain. However, it again happened while working! This time was severe that I though > read more
Update on our New Home!
Published on 2011-01-05 20:57:00
I haven't been writing about our new home for a long while, but it is going fine. We signed the mortgage settlement in the end of the year and going to receive the ownership next week. Then on 1/17, our renovation starts! Sorry for the small images, > read more
Souvenirs from 広州
Published on 2011-01-04 20:58:00
During the holiday, my mom and sisters went to see my dad in 広州 (Guangzhou), China. My darling and I had to work and also had to sign mortgage settlement, so we couldn't join, so my mom brought us back some interesting souvenirs :) High class > read more
Kaitenzushi
Published on 2011-01-04 08:12:00
When we have no idea what to eat, we always go to kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi restaurant). Crab is in season, so I had 4 pieces of them :P Also my favorite anago (conger eel). Yummy!!! During the holiday, I cleaned up my stuff which I haven't > read more
Pua Lililehua @ You Tube
Published on 2011-01-02 02:56:00
In the end of the year, I again took a video of my hula. The video was taken near home at 仙川 (senkawa). The high was 9C (48F), so it was freezing cold outside X( Pua Lililehua means "flower of salvia". It's a stately Hawaiian love song. As usu > read more
Happy New Year 2011
Published on 2011-01-01 08:51:00
I wrote many New Year's cards this year! In Japan, we have a custom to send New Year's cards to arrive on January 1st. Of course, I used our wedding photo :D I prepared our New Year's food the day before. I added a rabbit fish cake since it's the > read more