#Tea Spout Ladles

[spicybeefnoodles]

(mk2021) sonya flirting with kung lao and kung lao getting flustered ?

the tea ceremony

summary: kung lao teaches sonya about tea

warnings: none :)

Kung Lao sat next to Liu Kang, watching Cole Young and Kano spar, though it seemed more like a one-sided beating from his point of view. Cole Young had yet to earn his arcana, and Kano had unwavering confidence in his abilities and had a bit too much fun in using his laser eye to send Cole running throughout the pits. Kung Lao muttered to Liu Kang that he was going to take a walk, perhaps grab some water or a snack or anything else other than watch a boxer get beat down by an Australian assassin.

The monk wandered down the halls, letting his body move on autopilot to the kitchens, as he thought about the upcoming tournament and its participants. Only he and Liu Kang could really fight, and the only others who could fight decently either had their arms missing or had no arcana. A fighter without their arcana would most likely die, and he would not allow a fighter to participate without it. No matter how well they fought.

Kung Lao snapped himself out of his thoughts as he saw Sonya Blade in the kitchen, filling up a bottle of water with the pots of fresh water the monks collected every morning, and she had a small plate of food on the table behind her. Snacks most likely for Jackson Briggs to help him in his recovery.

Kung Lao grabbed a few clay teacups and a teapot before ladling in some of the water from a different pot while Sonya watched.

“Are you making tea?” Sonya peered over Kung Lao’s shoulder as he added in a variety of tea leaves and prepared a tray with some rocks in the corner and a variety of cups. Kung Lao nodded as he set the metal tea pot over the stove and watched carefully for the water to reach the correct temperature.

“The tea will clear the mind. Perhaps help Cole Young aid in finding his arcana. Or calm down Kano. Either would be good at this point.” Kung Lao explained, and Sonya Blade hummed as she watched Kung Lao pour the tea into the clay pot of tea leaves on the tray and circle the lid around the rim of the teapot before closing it and pouring the tea over the small rocks in the corner of the tray.

“What’re you doing?” Sonya asked, poking at the rocks in the corner of the tray as if they were magical. Kung Lao rolled his eyes and smacked Sonya’s hand away as he once again added water and let it sit to absorb the flavors of the tea this time.

“We wash our tea to wash away any impurities. It is like meditation: meant to wash away troubles and doubts.” Kung Lao explained as Sonya shifted her weight from foot to foot, eager to know more about the tea ceremony.

“Oh, I don’t really like meditation. Too boring for me.” Sonya said, and Kung Lao rolled his eyes, “of course you would not understand. You are too impatient. Too flighty to sit and find beauty in waiting.”

Sonya huffed but watched as Kung Lao poured some tea over the rocks and hummed in approval before pouring the tea into a cup much larger than the other ones with a curved spout. Kung Lao put down the teapot and picked up the larger cup and transferred some of the tea into a thin tall cup and handed it to Sonya.

“Smell. This is the tea.”

Sonya quirked her eyebrows and wafted the smell to her. It was a sweet-smelling tea, perhaps a little rich, and she lifted the cup to her lips to drink. Kung Lao hissed and snatched the cups from Sonya’s fingers.

“No, do not drink from these cups. They are not meant for that purpose. Drink from this.” Kung Lao picked up the transfer cup and poured some into more traditional looking ta cups before handing it to Sonya, waiting for her to taste. Kung Lao’s fingers twitched as he realized that he was explaining something to a fighter with no arcana. A liability. A weakness and someone who could be hurt in the fray. He should be focusing his efforts on Cole Young, even Kano, especially Liu Kang. And yet, here he was, like a puppy waiting for its master’s approval. Kung Lao’s face flushed at the realization.

Sonya glanced at the monk as she sipped on the drink, and Kung Lao ducked his head below the brim of his hat to try and hide his face. She hummed in delight, a slight smile appearing on her face as she sipped on her drink slowly. The monk watched as she finished her drink, his previous task forgotten as a wide smile appeared on her face. She placed her cup down on the tray and tapped her fingers against her arm.

“Do you think I could get some for Jax? He’s been overthinking lately, and I think this tea would do him some good.” Sonya asked, and Kung Lao nodded, heading over to the cabinets and mixing together the blend of leaves and spices for Sonya. He turned around and gave the bag to Sonya, giving her a few instructions on how to brew the tea: to make the water not too hot, to steep for this many minutes, to pour over the tea pets to see if the tea is right yet. Kung Lao picked up his tray to bring back to Liu Kang and the others, but before he could leave, Sonya gave him a wide smile and thanked him.

“Thank you, Kung Lao. We couldn't have done this without you.”

Kung Lao ducked his head and hummed as he left, but his heart pounded in his chest. It was one thing to hear his shidi compliment him: they had grown up together, and he was Liu Kang’s superior. But, something about the general complimenting him set his face ablaze and heart thumping like a rabbit in a cage. Perhaps he would need the tea as well to clear his mind.

[zerofuckingwaste]

Hey y'all, here's my suggestion for a great low waste, healthy, flavorful alternative to soda: kombucha! Not the stuff you buy at the health foods store that costs like $6 a bottle, no- the stuff you make at home.

Materials: a large glass container with a decently wide mouth (a pitcher, a jug, etc), a cloth (linen or cotton or whatever, a tea towel works), rubber bands, a wooden spoon, a ladle, green tea leaves, sugar, water, and a Scoby; you can buy the latter online, or you can find one locally with a little sleuthing, or you can make your own- just use an unflavored or 'original flavor' premade kombucha from the store.

Boil 4 cups of water, let cool 1 minute, and steep 3 tbsp green tea in it for 7-10 minutes. Remove the tea (don't press on it, you'll release tannins) and mix in 1 cup of sugar. Add in 8 cups of ice water to cool it, then pour that into your glass container. Ensure that it's room temperature, then add your Scoby. Seal the container with the cloth and rubber bands, and let sit 7-30 days, depending on how you like yours to taste.

You can drink it as is, or you can do a second fermentation to add carbonation; get some swing top or otherwise resealable glass bottles, and leave 1 inch of headroom when adding the booch. You can flavor it with a few tablespoons of whatever you want. I just did a batch of pinecone booch this week. I did lemon and charcoal last week, and hibiscus rose passion fruit the week before. The more sugar, the more carbonation. Seal it and let it sit for a few days at room temperature. Don't open them at room temp though, refrigerate for at least 3 hours before opening so you don't have an explosion.

To make your next batch, simply reserve the pellicle (the weird white thing that will appear on the top of your brew) and a cup of the liquid, and that's your Scoby for next time! You don't technically even need the pellicle- if it gets too thick, you can always toss it in the compost and just use the liquid, or you can make a fruit leather out of it, or even dog treats.

Anyhow, the cost of having a constant supply of kombucha flowing is simply the cost of water, green tea, and sugar, and about five minutes of your time every so often. It's easy, it's fun to experiment, and it's a great way to avoid soda while drinking something technically good for you.

But hey, kombucha isn't for everyone. And things can go wrong, it can be frustrating sometimes. All this is is a suggestion if you're looking for a more sustainable alternative to kick a soda habit!

PS- if you're disabled, look into getting a glass punch dispenser, it negates the need for a ladle, just ensure that the spout is not a reactive metal. You can find them at thrift stores, and they're always on sale at big box stores!

[fazfacts]

CR1TIKAL FNAF GAMEPLAY AND COMMENTARY SENTENCE STARTERS!

❝ Alright, I guess I’ll go fuck myself. ❞

❝ Oh, that’s spooky. It’s 12:31 AM where I am right now. ❞

❝ I’m getting the heebie-jeebies. ❞

❝ What if Freddy Fraz- what if Freddy Faz- ❞

❝ What the fuck? Fuck Freddy Fazbear. ❞

❝ What the fuck? Fuck [___]. ❞

❝ This is the longest message I’ve ever received. ❞

❝ It should be an illegal thing for you to leave such a long message. ❞

❝ Oh, yes. Taunt me by pronouncing [___] correctly. ❞

❝ That really makes the employee feel good. ❞

❝ Don’t insult their music. ❞

❝ I’m irritable right now, due to the length of this message. ❞

❝ How about you show me respect as a human being and stop this message? ❞

❝ Alright, so exactly how do I fight these things? ❞

❝ What the fuck? Did they deploy an EMP? ❞

❝ My signal’s been lost! They’re jamming the radio frequency! ❞

❝ What the fuck do I do now? ❞

❝ He’s in the Dining Area. He must have been hungry. ❞

❝ I see you, bitch. Sipping on that green tea. ❞

❝ How do you like me now? I’ll sip my green tea in peace. ❞

❝ I don’t need you judging me. ❞

❝ It’s like that poster on the wall over there says: [___]. ❞

❝ Celebrate green tea. ❞

❝ He knows you don’t wanna fuck with a man that’s drinking green tea. ❞

❝ Oh, no, we’ve got a REAL man over here. We’ve got a MAN’S MAN sipping on green tea. ❞

❝ Where the fuck is the [___]? ❞

❝ Oh, man. He’s in cahoots with the bear. ❞

❝ Judging by its facial expression, it looks like someone shoved a soup ladle up its asshole. ❞

❝ Poor thing looks startled. ❞

❝ Look at those eyes. Jeez, my goodness, those are some googly eyes. ❞

❝ It wants a relationship. ❞

❝ I’m not ready to commit to a relationship with a bear. ❞

❝ Oh, so you’ve finally come to face me in person, have you? ❞

❝ Why are you still here? I’m making it very clear I don’t want you at my door. ❞

❝ I can do this all day, [___]. All day. ❞

❝ 5 AM. My favorite time to wipe my ass. ❞

❝ Yayyy, 6 AM. I’ve finished wiping my ass by then. ❞

❝ Do not pick up that phone. I cannot bear another four hour message from this guy. ❞

❝ Just let it ring through. Let the answering machine get it, and let that deal with the nonsense he spouts. ❞

❝ That is one weak-ass fan. ❞

❝ I guess that’s the way the cookie crumbles. ❞

❝ Well, excuse me, then. ❞

❝ How rude was that? ❞

❝ That man on the phone was still in the middle of his lecture on the importance of a stable economy and this bear just barged right in. ❞

❝ I don’t know why you’re letting me stop you with just a simple door and a light. ❞

❝ Oh, shit, wow. I’m almost out of powder. ❞

❝ Oh, no! The hungry hippo teeth, nooo! ❞

❝ [___] is a master technician. A connoisseur of courageous calculations. I’d even go as far as to call him...a dickhole. ❞

❝ Go back to hibernation! Let the light stun you! ❞

❝ Well, there’s a huge security flaw. ❞

❝ I mean, if that’s the way this facility needs to be designed, then who am I to argue with the architecture? ❞

❝ You’ve got to be stirring my pasta. ❞

❝ What is this thing? ❞

❝ You know what? I’m gonna tell a story. ❞

❝ I haven’t told a story in a really long time. ❞

❝ Please get out of the doorway, I’m about to tell a story. ❞

❝ Fuck it, no shame. ❞

❝ The timing could NOT have been worse. ❞

❝ I just can’t deal with this. ❞

❝ Zoinks, the lights are off! ❞

❝ Take that, Fazbear! ❞

❝ Fuck, I came all this way, and it’s 6 AM now? ❞

❝ Celebrate the joy of long-lasting power! ❞

❝ Serenade me, Fazbear. ❞

❝ Serenade my candy ass. ❞

❝ [___] is certainly a force to be reckoned with...and I don’t feel like reckoning with him anymore. ❞

[randomingoftherandomness]

Wang Yao x Lan Jue

The first meeting after the war, and the promised meal.

Hi friend! Thank you for the prompt. I'm assuming you mean Wang Yan and not Wang Yao? (ง ื▿ ื)ว In any case! Enjoy! This one may have taken a life of its own haha

[Currently still accepting ALoN Fic Prompts]

~*~*~*~

"I would have been equally as happy to have this meal at your house."

Peizhi merely smiles in response, gaze darting across the table to spy at the way Mowen is lazily fanning himself while watching the serving girls artfully arrange the first round of their dishes for this evening.

Hiding the way his lips twitch in quiet amusement, he takes a deep sip of his cup of tea.

"I made a promise that I intended to keep, Mowen," Peizhi says gently when the girls bow, moving on delicate footsteps to retreat from their room. "A meal to celebrate your victory."

Mowen huffs, rolling his eyes. "Please stop. It's as if you don't already know that the threshold of my father's residence has almost been worn down by all those grateful families looking to hitch their daughters, sisters, or some such to me."

"Would that be such a bad thing?"

Mowen parts his lips, eyes wide as if this, of all the insanities and terrors that Peizhi has ever spouted, is the one thing he has never expected to come out of him.

Peizhi expects him to respond in his typical bluster. To reply with some dismissive comment or another about how men like him need to be picky about who they choose as their partner, to wave away his comment with a laugh and a playful twinkle in his eyes.

Instead, Mowen closes his mouth, pursing his lips and says nothing.

Peizhi sighs, moving to refill Mowen's empty cup. "I can do that," Mowen says shortly, taking the teapot away and topping up his cup himself.

Watching him as he takes the practised motions of ladling out a bowl of soup for Peizhi, placing the best cuts of meat and vegetables on his plate before he even takes any for himself, Peizhi is struck with a sense of forlorn at the singular realisation that, ah, I've made him mad.

"Mowen-ah..."

"Eat," Mowen says curtly. "Eat up."

Heart thudding in his chest, twisting just that bit painfully, Peizhi plucks up his own chopsticks to do as he is told.

Mowen does not say anything and Peizhi feels, for the very first time in the hours and days and months and years they've shared together, lost.

"I didn't mean to offend you," He tries when the silence drags on. "You know I do not mean--"

"You meant what you said, Peizhi," Mowen interrupts, gaze kept low. "Don't disrespect yourself or me by telling me that you didn't mean to say what you said."

The unspoken, do not disrespect us and everything we have shared hangs heavy in the air, and Peizhi is seized by a shame that chokes him from the inside out.

Because it is true. He has meant every word he has ever said when it came to them. Every shred of honesty shared in the midnight hours when there was nothing between them but the night air and the tangle of their hairs on brocade pillow. Every single unspooled tenderness on love-marked skin, every decadent secret told only in kisses and breaths brushing against cheek and jaw.

Peizhi has always meant it.

Which is why he has to make Mowen understand.

"Do you truly believe it does not hurt to hear about how one family after another has attempted to marry their girls off to you? Do you truly think that my heart is that fickle when it comes to you?"

Mowen looks up at him. The corner of his eyes tinged with red, brown eyes dark with hurt.

"I find that I know you less and less," He answers. "Our first meeting since I came back, and you're trying to marry me off. My lover whom I've not seen for many months, the same one I've fought life and limb to come back to, is the one person I did not expect would try to do that."

Guilt holds Peizhi by the throat.

Abandoning his seat, he crosses over to Mowen, letting out an unbidden cry when he is welcomed into strong arms with no resistance. Somewhere outside their little private room, someone laughs. There's a floating note of music. It's neither the time nor place for them to be doing this, but Peizhi cannot bring himself to care.

It's too public a place for a final surrender, and yet, Peizhi cannot think of a better setting.

"Forgive me," He begs, pressing a kiss to Mowen's temple. Closing his eyes, he breathes in deeply. Lets Mowen tangles his hands in his robes. Allows himself to be moved to straddle Mowen's lap.

"Do you really want me to marry someone else?"

Peizhi does not hesitate to shake his head. Keeping his eyes fixed on Mowen, he shakes his head again as he cups the sides of his neck. "No. Never."

"Then please," Mowen whispers. "Please never say that to me again. Even if the Emperor himself commanded me to, I won't marry anyone. In this life, I'll only ever have you."

Heart caught between sadness and elation, Peizhi, presses their brows together. Synching their breaths, he lets Mowen lay him down on his back. Lets the air in his lungs be stolen by kisses and drowns in the familiar weight of Mowen's body finally pressing on his own.

Fingertips caress his cheek. Peizhi nuzzles into sword-calloused palm. "We should have had this dinner at home."

"Now you know," Mowen scoffs, leaning in to kiss the corner of his smile. "Haven't seen you in months and you drag me out for dinner when we could be having the same meal in bed."

"In bed?"

"In bed," Mowen confirms, pulling back, and taking Peizhi with him as he goes. "Half naked with me feeding you."

Peizhi bites back the chuckle that threatens to escape him.

He straightens his clothes and looks over the dishes while Mowen does the same for his own. Presentable enough or not, it really doesn't matter, he'll make sure that Xu Dong picks them up via the back door. Maybe he can get the servers to pack this up for tomorrow's meal.

"I'll be going to pick Lan Hui up in a fortnight to come to live at Lan Manor again."

"That's good, I think he'd be happy to be home again," Mowen answers, reaching over easily to redo his crown with practised ease.

Reaching up to wrap a hand around Mowen's wrist, he says, "Come with me."

"What? Are you so eager to announce to your son that I've finally made an honest man of you?"

Peizhi lets loose a short bark of laughter, leaning into him. "No, I want to tell him that I'm taking him home and surround him with family again. And I want you there when I do it."

Mowen raises an eyebrow before teasingly asking, "And you want to tell him you've gotten him a new stepmother? Is that why you want me to be there? Should I dress in some women's things? I think I could pass for a pretty woman if Lan Hui's eyesight is a bit shot from all the reading you make him do."

"Rascal," Peizhi chides, moving aside to call for a server. After he relays his orders, he turns back to Mowen, drinking in the sight of him. "Though I would need to pay an astronomical dowry for your hand in marriage, I would do it. Just so that I can see you in a dress."

Mowen's laughter rings loud and happy in the room. When he closes the distance between them, he eyes up the door before sneaking in a quick peck to Peizhi's cheek. "Even in a dress, I'll still have my Lan-daren under me, panting and aching for me and only me."

A frisson of desire starbursts up his spine at the timbre of Mowen's voice and the dancing of his breath on Peizhi's heated skin. Eyes fluttering open, he swallows tightly. "Check on the server and tell him to hurry up."

Dark eyes flicker over his face, glinting with mischief. "Whatever my husband asks of me," Mowen purrs in reply.

[maddieonthemovee]

May 26 – Kiyomizudera, Sannen-zaka, Ninen-zaka, and Gion

Today, we started off our day by going to Kiyomizudera. There we saw some beautiful views of Kyoto’s forests from the temple’s famous wooden porch. I was super hot and there was a ton of walking, but my new shoes that I got yesterday in Osaka gave me some extra cushion. Once we arrived, we entered the womb of Kannon, which was basically a long hallway that was pitch black. Our class entered one by one and used a handrail to feel our way through the “womb”. Near the end of the hallway, there was a rotating stone. We put our hands on the stone and made one wish before exiting via some stairs. Next, we got in line to drink water from one of three spouts of falling water. The spouts each represented something different: love, longevity, and success (academic or work-related), and you are to drink from one of the three spouts hoping that the one you choose represents the thing you wish for. I went for the spout in the middle, and I followed the procedure as demonstrated by some of my classmates as well as Japanese locals who went up before me. First, I took a metal ladle with a long handle and filled it up with water. I poured some of it into my hand and took a small sip. Next, I washed both of my hands and then poured out the remaining water by holding the ladle vertically. 

Next, we walked down the hilly temple area through various shops and restaurants. Our bc class broke for lunch at the bottom, but then my friends and I had to walk back up the hill to search for a place to eat; that wasn’t super ideal. Also, many of the restaurants along the hill were fully reserved and booked out, so it was pretty tedious to try and find somewhere we could sit. We settled on a Japanese buffet place, where as soon as we were seated, we were given a tray with a bowl for rice, a plate for vegetables, a bowl for miso soup, and a cup for tea. We filled up our plates with vegetables which unfortunately turned out to be all either pickled or super sweet. I enjoyed the rice and the miso soup though. We then went to a Starbucks which had an authentic, traditional Japanese feel to its design compared to the other more modern Starbucks I have seen here in Japan. After meeting back up with the group, we walked to see a robot manifestation of Kannon. The robot was strangely lifelike despite its mechanical appearance; it was able to blink, move its arms, hands, and head, and “talk”. The robot spoke about the heart sutra and about how seeing oneself and the world as empty frees oneself from worldly desires and allows triumphs over adversities.

Lastly, we made our way to Gion. We walked up and down the Main Street a few times although there wasn’t much to do in the historical area of the district. We missed the 3:00 geisha performance, so we had an hour to walk around and explore before the next performance at 4. My friends and I went to Blue Bottle to get coffee, and then we headed back. We saw a geisha dance performance which was very simple yet precise in its movements. I enjoyed the small intricacies of the performance, from the maiko’s finger movements to her head inclinations. We were able to walk around a small exhibit inside the building, where I saw the different makeup, wigs, shoes, and fans that geishas and maikos use. We then headed home, and my friends and I are now figuring out our plans for dinner. Looking forward to the bamboo forest tomorrow; fingers crossed that it does not rain!

Academic Reflection:

In the second reading, “Enlightenment Geisha: The Sex Trade, Education, and Feminine Ideals in Early Meiji Japan”, I learned some context behind the origins of geishas and their original role in Japanese society. I have seen the movie Memoirs of a Geisha before, so I knew about the prostitution and manipulation that occurred in the geisha houses. However, I was surprised to learn that there were efforts to increase the education. This reading also helped me draw the connection between the perceived role of a geisha and the traditional perceived role of a woman in general in Japan: “Even as the “enlightened geisha” faded into obscurity, parts of her survived as the “good wife, wise mother” (558). 

Something that I have been seeing on social media as my algorithm has begun to show me more and more content related to Japan is the tense relationship between tourists and geishas. I have seen videos of tourists taking videos and photos of geishas walking down the street without their consent, following them and attempting to corner them in public spaces. While we were on the streets of Gion, I did not see any geishas or maikos, but there were many groups of tourists walking about. I read in an article from The Guardian that Kyoto banned tourists from certain areas of the Gion District due to the consistent trespassing of private properties and accosting of geishas and maikos, so I wonder if that can explain the extreme separation from tourists and the geishas today.

[justalittletomato]

Idk if you’ve done something like this, but how would Maul handle Savage, reader and himself having to go to like a gala typed thing for the syndicate while she’s pregnant, and she’s feeling super insecure about having to dress up for it because she’s like clearly pregnant at that point.... I know it’s oddly specific, but it’s something I’ve thought on for a long time now

Anon, the moment I read this I thought this would definitely be something that happens. I imagine Reader is someone who takes pride in how they present themselves and as Lady Mandalore, they have an extensive wardrobe of gowns, that need to be put away they get further along in the preganacy, They don't mind too much until this gala invite pops in, they are used to catching people’s eyes and now well the bump is eye catching. I don't know how this ended up becoming a drabble but here it is! 

 So it might go like this:

You sigh and sit in front of the vanity, dreading every moment that passes. your hands reach yo get started with a brush when you feel

the tall tell flutter in your belly, “ You’re nervous too aren’t you little one?” you gently rub a hand on your belly at 7 months you could feel your baby’s kicks. Each moment like this was precious. If only you didn’t feel like a purgil. Most times you didn’t mind knowing that very soon you’d have your baby in your arms. However, you glare as the reminder blinking on your datapad, a gala of all things for the syndicate.

Before this, you had attended a handful with Maul and Savage.  Dressed finery often in reds and blacks to match your partner and in gowns that you couldn’t dream of fitting in right now.

The baby kicked once again, you wrapped your arms around your belly and tried not to think about the ugly gown you had to wear.

“ Are they kicking again??” Maul was dressed already, you couldn’t appreciate the sight of him in his suit too busy wallowing at being a giant marshmallow in a bathrobe.

He’s already at your side kneeling next to you, ah there’s that honey yellow color in his eyes.

A soft shade to mirror the joy he feels in these moments. You nod, his hands quickly touch your belly. The child kicks against his palm, maul smiles more frequently now but only in these moments when your little one flutters in your belly. “I can’t wait to hold you my little one. “ he whispers to the bump before looking up at you in pure adoration,” Then you’d see your beautiful mother.”

Your smile falls, you don’t feel beautiful, you don’t look it either. You look back at the mirror. The hands-on your stomach move away as maul stands up. He furrows his brow ridge, “you are upset. You usually smile when I say that. “

Just a bit tired. You lie.  Fingers find their way into your hair gentle moving through your locks, “ Starlight. If that’s the case you can stay, me and savage will manage.” You feel your throat constrict, please no. Please not this again. Your tears are falling before you can stop them.

“No!  I won't go. “ you cried so much these days and spouted nonsense, “ I want to go dance with you.” You cry harder now imaging the outcome a damn purgil spinning about. Maul continues to stroke your hair and kiss your cheek, “ of course starlight.” He waits till your tears stop and asks again if you are alright. Again you lie and begin to get ready, Maul watching you with concern as your shoulders shake, I’m fine you keep lying.

He helps you into your dress, no reds or blacks this time instead a deep purple shade, similar to the blanket you had begun to knit for the baby. Out of habit Maul kisses up your back as he pulls the zipper up, and gives one last kiss to your neck, and mentions low lovely you look. You just stare at the mirror and want to hide.  You wanted this night to be done with.

Savage can tell you are uneasy, looking back and forth at all the other guests. No one else is expecting, you try to maneuver yourself behind Savage.

You just need to remain here for the rest of the night.

It would have worked if only your brother in law didn’t shuffle in the other direction. “ Just hold still will you!” You hiss.

Savage looks at you curiously, “ You don’t hide. “ again he moves causing you to move with him, you smack his arm as he tries to move you next to him rather than behind, “You are often the one floating around and pulling Maul to dance with you. “  you huff in defeat and look away from Savage. 

Dancing in red and black that was before.

You finally catch sight of Maul painfully making small talk with the other syndicate leaders. You were usually the one to help push through that for both your sakes and transition seamlessly onto quick negotiations. Maul would give your hand a squeeze in thanks. After this, you would take Maul to dance with you. It’s was not something he quite enjoyed but it gave him the excuse to hold you in his arms, one hand at the small of your back, and  the other holding your hand. He’d kiss you every now and again too. You can feel your damn tears begin to well in your eyes again.

“ I can’t. I can’t go out there like this! Look at me!” 

Savage looks you over, purple is a nice color on you. The dress seemed to emphasize the fact that you were expecting but in a way it seemed to cause the other guests to whisper how lovely you looked. Of course, Savage considered all of this but didn’t say it aloud, all that tumbled out was, “ I don’t see the issue.”

You point to your belly glaring at him for not realizing the issue,” I’m huge. I'm pregnant and huge. I can’t go to dance I look terrible! I feel awful and I want to cry again!” Savage offers you a tissue to dab your eyes, unsure of what to make of your tears. You hiccup and fail to staunch the waterworks. 

While you cry, Savage carefully brings up what Maul has been telling him “Glowing. “ the single word has you look at him for more explanation,  “That’s the word he says when I don’t meet up early to see you, he says you’re glowing right now.”  You sniffle, “oh” you have to dab at your eyes again.

“Starlight, “ concern clear and his eyes bright, oh no maul had returned to you. His hands immediately cup your face, “Why are you crying...brother what happened?!”

You pull out of his hold Maul doesn’t reach out again, it is clear that won’t help now. “ I’m pregnant Maul I’m  huge and I hate it.” Your hands drop to your belly making sure to rub where your baby just kicked, “Oh but I love you little one but Maker this is just terrible.” You assure your child.

Maul looks at you, he had been neglectful to really check in with you, to find the cause of your sorrow. To know it was your image, well it explained how you acted today. He had to reassure you, “Starlight, you’re more beautiful to me than ever. “

“Liar. “ You reach out to have him put his hands back on your face, you need him to hold you.

I never lie, he kisses away your tears. “ Starlight as I’ve told savage you’re glowing, look at what you are holding. Our child in your belly, it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve seen. I know it’s hard right now but there no other sight I’d want tonight but you here before me. “ Your heart flutters and your tears finally begin to slow.  You are given more kisses and assurance at how radiant, glowing and beautiful you are.

 “ Do you still want your dance?”  He has your head on his shoulder and a hand on your belly. Now you’ve relaxed your hiccups have gone and savage has made sure to bring you more tissues and somehow tea in this alcohol-ladled gala. You give a tiny nod, “ But you have two dance partners technically, the little one is spinning about.”

Maul traces over your belly feeling the child dance around, “Rest little one,” he playfully scolds,  “Let your mother have a moment. Soon you’ll have your turn too.”

Your fingers intertwine with his and he leads you into a slow dance, he whispers all his favorite moments where he found you radiant: touching your belly as you tell you child about this mornings sunrise and then again as the sunsets from the window, humming as you make more tiny clothes, and best of all right now dancing with him as your little one stubbornly dances in your belly once again.

[mia-japanese-korean]

Water container (mizusashi), Kawase Shinobu, 2009, Minneapolis Institute of Art: Japanese and Korean Art

light blue; black lacquer cover with small loop handle; wide, flat foot; sides taper inward and flare outward to three scallops--two incised and one pointing outward as a spout Water is ladled from the Mizusashi and heated in a kettle by the Tea Master in order to make tea during the Japanese Tea Ceremony. This jar evokes the purity of the water held within. Size: 7 7/16 x 8 5/8 x 8 3/8 in. (18.89 x 21.91 x 21.27 cm) Medium: Glazed stoneware; lacquer

https://collections.artsmia.org/art/108019/

[agilenano]

Agilenano - News: 19 Greatest Brushed Stainless Steels

  Legrand adorne Brushed Stainless Steel, 1-Gang Wall Plate, AWC1G2BS4 - This item is available in 1-6-gang capacities shop now to find the right wall plate for your home. The design has no visible screws and features a brushed stainless steel cast metal finish. Innovative screw-less design ensures easy installation by simply snapping into existing metal frame fits over existing electrical box time to install 15 minutes or less. This product comes in dozens of finishes, including a variety of luxurious metals, or order in your own custom finish. The adorne 1-gang wall plate is perfectly sized to fit two half-size usb outlets, a single pop-out or standard outlet, and any adorne switch or dimmer switch perfect anywhere you’d like to upgrade the look of a standard wall switch, dimmer switch or outlet.

  iDesign Forma Metal Toothbrush Holder Stand for Vanity Countertops in Master, Guest, and Kids’ Bathrooms, 1.5″ x 3″ x 3.75″, Brushed Stainless Steel - Toothbrush stand freestanding stainless steel toothbrush holder perfect for master bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and kids’ bathrooms. Functional features 4 slots to hold multiple toothbrushes. Compact size toothbrush holder measures 15″ x 3″ x 375″, perfect for small spaces. Stylish brushed finish provides a classic look to match any decor. Durable made with durable stainless steel for years of quality use.

  Chefbar Pour Over Coffee Kettle Tea Kettle, Gooseneck Coffee Kettle Brushed Stainless Steel Stovetop Teakettle for Pour Over Coffee, Gooseneck Pour Over Kettle for Drip Coffee and Tea 40 oz (1.2L) - High quality tea kettles stovetop — this 1 liter, 4 cup stainless steel tea kettle is constructed with premium quality 304 18/10 food grade steel, making it more durable and rust resistant, yet still light-weighted bpa free. Never boils over — our portable kettle is specifically designed to keep water from spouting out of the gooseneck, meaning you won’t have messy to clean up when traveling, outdoor camping or at home. Precise gooseneck spout — precise and smooth water flow is essential in making drip coffee and pouring over tea our coffee and tea kettle contains an easy-pouring gooseneck spout for precise water flow pour the right amount of water and pour at the right speed for consistent coffee extraction. Perfect brushed gooseneck kettle — chefbar brushed pouring-over coffee kettle is designed with a gooseneck spout nozzle permitting a controlled flow of hot water into your french press or coffee maker also, the self-cooling handle and slip-resistant grip ensure that the kettle does not slip when you are pouring water. Eco-friendly handle design — stove top kettle with bakelite handle, when boil water you can lift the handle up and keep the flame on the bottom.

  Kitchen Trash Can for Bathroom Bedroom Home Office 13 Gallon 50 Liter Automatic Touch Free High-Capacity Garbage Can with Lid Brushed Stainless Steel Waste Bin - Ultra-large capacity, with a 13 gallon capacity, our trash can is more than equipped to meet your daily needs, and is compatible with the standard 13-gallon trash bag from any supermarket. Odorless + easy to clean, the trash can’s stainless steel wire drawing is fingerprint-resistant and easily cleaned after sustained use, while the sealed exterior and infrared technology ensures odor is contained. Sensible, modern design, who knew a trash can could be so beautiful our trash can is made of high-quality stainless steel with a stainless steel wire drawing surface the oval body and sloping lid are sleek and modern, making this trash can a functional and visually appealing addition to any space. Automatic and hygienic, while conventional trash cans are cumbersome and noisy, our automatic trash can uses touchless technology to open and close the lid, ensuring that you throw your trash away soundlessly and hygienically. Multi-functional, our automatic trash can is ideal for virtually any setting whether you’re in the kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, office, or even your study, this trash can is an effective and attractive addition.

  simplehuman 10 Liter / 2.3 Gallon Stainless Steel Small Semi-Round Bathroom Step Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel - 112″ w x 106″ d x 175″ h, 26″ with lid open. Silent close lid, patented lid shox technology controls the motion of the lid for a slow, silent, quiet close, no banging or loud noises. 10-year warranty, we use the best materials and solid engineering so our products will last in tough environments like your home for years. Fingerprint-proof finish, resists smudges to keep stainless steel shiny. Strong steel pedal, engineered to last 150,000 steps, that’s more than 20 steps a day for 20 years. Perfect for small spaces, fits well in bathrooms, offices or wherever space is limited. Enhance your trash experience, extra-strong and durable code c custom fit liners fit this can perfectly for a cleaner trash experience. Removable inner bucket, lifts out for easy trash disposal.

  OXO Good Grips Brushed Stainless Steel Ladle - Stainless steel surface for safely leaning utensils on hot cookware. Subtle, soft, non-slip grip. Sturdy brushed stainless steel construction. Hole in handle for hanging. Dishwasher safe.

  Mr Coffee Claredale 2.2 Qt Whistling Tea Kettle SS, 1, Brushed Stainless Steel - Made of stainless steel with stay cool bakelite handles it is a great addition to any kitchen. Prepare your favorite hot beverage with mr. 2 qt. Coffee claredale 2. Its silver-colored brushed finish and contemporary shape look great on any stovetop. Tea kettle.

  simplehuman 1.5 Liter / 0.4 Gallon Countertop Trash Can, Brushed Stainless Steel - Fingerprint-proof fingerprint-proof finish resists smudges to keep stainless steel shiny. 5-year. Lift-off lid lid comes off easily to empty contents. Balanced swing lid center-weighted swing lid opens easily and then gently swings back into place. Easy to clean smooth plastic inner lining is easy to wipe clean.

  Neodrain 24 Inch Rectangular Linear Shower Drain with Brick Pattern Grate, Brushed 304 Stainless Steel Bathroom Floor Drain,Shower Floor Drain Includes Adjustable Leveling Feet - √ Linear shower drain size24″ length, 275″ width, 2″ central outlet 36 l/min high flow capability. √ Deep slope design shallow ‘v’ profile to aide flow of water to shower drain outletenhanced internal slope virtually eliminates water remaining in the channel can be used in kitchen, bathroom, garage, basement and toilet and also preventing unpleasant smell, insects and mice from entering the house. √easy adjustment linear drain equipped with adjustable feet on both sides, making the linear drain can easily be adjusted precisely to level to the ground threaded adaptor with rubber o-ring aids adjusting the height of linear drain and securing the linear drain to the flange, leak-proof and compatible with most 2″ pvc, abs, and cast iron drain base flangesa removable grate makes it easy to clean. √ Shower floor drain material aisi 304 stainless steel, made of strong 304 grade stainless steel, brushed surface, brushed steel finished protect against corrosion & rust with watermark&cupc certified. Fits us no-hub coupling, 2″ shower drain base can be purchased separately pvc for b06xsqf1vr, b07dnqfbm5 abs for b07gyqlxvf, not compatible with schluter kerdi shower kit.

  Kitchen Trash Can With Lid For Office Bedroom Bathroom Step Trash Bin Fingerprint-Proof Garbage Bin Brushed Stainless Steel 13 Gallon / 50 Liter - 『13 gallon ultra-large capacity』 13 gallons can absolutely meet your daily use, in the kitchen table next to a kitchen trash can, you will be more convenient to deal with kitchen waste the regular 13-gallon garbage bag in the supermarket can be used in our stainless steel trash can, and it’s kind of you to use a bigger bag the lid of the garbage can is removable, it’s convenient for you to put in and take out the garbage bag step trash can kitchen trash can bedroom trash can. 【Easy to clean & isolated smell 】our kitchen trash can is treated with stainless steel wire drawing, which makes it very convenient to clean up the stainless steel trash can the dirt on the surface of the garbage can be easily removed with only a rag if you don’t want the whole house to smell like you don’t like, you need to make sure that the lid of the bathroom trash can is always closed, and good sealing makes this possible step trash can stainless steel trash can kitchen trash can. 『Strong &fashionable appearance』our kitchen trash can is made of high quality stainless steel with a stainless steel wire drawing surface the oval body with a sloping lid makes the garbage can look even more cool and beautiful buying our stainless steel trash can is a great deal for you kitchen trash can bathroom trash can step trash can. 『Mute design』conventional』 garbage can in use will make a lot of noise, how our kitchen trash can use slow down technology, open and close will not make a lot of noise, you can rest assured that you can use, do not worry about disturbing the rest of the family so putting stainless steel trash can in the corner of your bedroom will make a good choice bathroom trash can kitchen trash can stainless steel trash can. 【suitable for various places】 our stainless steel trash can be used in all places where we can use it it’s big, beautiful and the price is right why not to buy one the kitchen, the bedroom, the living room, the study, the activity room, even in your kid’s cabin, i think it’s all right to put one of our kitchen trash can quality assurance, if garbage can have any quality problems, you can contact us the first time, we will give you a satisfactory answer bathroom trash can kitchen trash can.

  LORDEAR Solid Square Shower Head Ultra Thin 304 Stainless Steel Brushed Nickel 16 Inch Adjustable Rain Shower Head,Waterfall Full Body Coverage with Silicone Nozzle Easy to Clean and Install - 【Lordear promise】-limited lifetime warrantyif there any problem, please feel free to contact us . 【High quality rainfall showerhead】, the entire material for this shower head body is 304 stainless steel,waterfall full body coverage, stainless steel construction, corrosion resistant and highly durable. 【Waterfall, fully body coverage and adjustable】- this shower head with the size of 16 inch and 324 nozzles, will definitely offer you best shower experience ever. 【tools free installation】- 2mm eco-friendly 304 brushed stainless steel , simply screw on and turn on your new waterfall shower and make your bathroom look fancy and shining. 【The nozzle is made of silicone】- its performance and style make it the perfect shower head for your home and lifestyle improvement.

  All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set, Pots and Pans, 5-Ply Stainless Steel, Professional Grade, 10-Piece – 8400001085 - Lifetime warranty d5 stainless cookware pieces are crafted in our factory in canonsburg, pennsylvania each piece is compatible with all cooktops, including induction, is oven and broiler safe up to 600 degrees fahrenheit, and is covered by our limited lifetime warranty. Capacity etched on base heat-resistant stainless-steel handles with large bolster and permanently secured with stainless-steel rivets flat stainless-steel lids flared pouring rims. Timeless professional appeal all-clad brushed d5 stainless is a perfect choice for the passionate chef beyond the attractive brushed exterior, you will find a well-constructed, high-performance, durable kitchenware set, trusted by cooks of all levels and expertise for decades. 5-ply bonded construction with alternating layers of stainless steel and conductive aluminum for warp-free strength and even heating throughout. 10-piece cookware set includes 8″ & 10″ fry pans, 15 qt & 3 qt sauce pans with lids, 3 qt saute pan with lid, and an 8 qt stockpot with lid. Convenient and low maintenance all items included are dishwasher safe for anything stuck on, use a mixture of white vinegar and water, or a stainless-steel powder cleanser, such as bar keepers friend. Oven- and broiler-safe up to 600 degrees f optimized for induction dishwasher-safe limited lifetime warranty. Made in the usa to last a lifetime the brushed d5 stainless collection features five alternating layers of american-made stainless-steel and aluminum, bonded together all the way to the rim the classic stainless-steel handles are uniquely designed for balance and control, stay cool on the stovetop, and are permanently secured with stainless-steel rivets products are rigorously tested to ensure that every item with the all-clad logo offers a lifetime of beauty and performance. Highly polished stainless-steel cooking surface with starburst finish offers superior stick resistance and easy maintenance, plus won’t react with food. Versatile for all your cooking needs this kitchenware set includes 8-inch and 10-inch fry pans, 15-quart and 3-quart sauce pans with lids, a 3-quart sauce pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stock pot with a lid each piece has flared edges for drip-free pouring and is crafted with quality materials, including the stainless-steel core, to hold and distribute heat evenly throughout the pan, so only medium heat is required for your searing, braising, sautéing and simmering needs.

  Robe Hook, WEBI Heavy Duty Brushed Stainless Steel 304 Coat Hook Rail Towel Rack, Great Home Storage & Organization for Bedroom, Bathroom, Foyer, Hallway, 1 Hook in 2-Pack - 4 simple wall mount installation hardware pack included, and only a few steps to fix this utility hanger onto the wall. 5 functional design perfect for hanging things and is a good helpmate for home storage & organization. 1 solid construction built in premium grade stamped 304 stainless steel, this product is sturdy and durable enough to last for many years but please do not use it somewhere salty or extreme humid, like near swimming pool or sea. 3 minimalist looking & stylish compatible with any other modern designed home decor the finest brushed surface is of smooth touch. 2 easy to clean capable of resisting daily scratches, corrosion and tarnishing just wipe it slightly with a wet cloth if needed.

  MetroDecor mDesign Facial Tissue Box Cover/Holder for Bathroom Vanity Countertops – Pack of 2, Brushed Stainless Steel - Easy refills open bottom allows for easy replacement of empty tissue boxes, just lift the cover and place a new box underneath perfect for end tables, night stands, counter tops, vanities and desks throughout your home use in kitchen, living room, family room, office, craft room, bedrooms and more perfect for house, apartment, condo, college dorm rooms, rvs and campers. Large opening generously sized to hold most standard-sized square tissue boxes as well as stacks of individual facial napkins or tissues. Quality construction made of strong steel with a durable rust-resistant finish designed for use in moisture-rich bathroom environments easy care, wipe clean with damp cloth. Stylish storage dress up standard, square tissue boxes with this stylish cover easily conceals cardboard tissue boxes the clean, sleek design is perfect for home or commercial use complements any decor. Thoughtfully sized each measures 5″ x 5″ x 575″ high.

  iDesign Curved Metal Shower Curtain Rod, Adjustable Customizable Curtain Rod for Bathtub, Stall, Closet, Doorway, 41-72 Inches, Brushed Stainless Steel - Easy installation simple twist, extend, place into position, and use included hardware to hang in your shower and bath area. Stylish this shower curtain rod has a brushed stainless steel finish that is cohesive with any decor. Ideal size rod is adjustable from 41″-72″ to fit in your open space. Reliable curtain rod functional and adjustable curtain rod is perfect for bathroom, shower stall, bathtub, changing area, closet, window opening, and more strong enough to hold shower curtains, window curtains, clothing, and other items. Durable rust-resistant steel construction for years of durable use attractive wall attachments protect your walls from scratches and keep the rod in place.

  Chantal ELSL37-03M BRS Mia Ekettle Electric Kettle, 32 oz, Brushed Stainless Steel - 18/8 stainless steel, all stainless steel interior, no plastic. Dual function, perfect for slow pour coffee but also as an everyday kettle. Auto shut-off & boil-dry protection. Unique slow pour spout handle design to make a “pour-over” feel natural and easy. Volume measurements inside.

  simplehuman 45 Liter / 12 Gallon Rectangular Kitchen Step Soft-Close Lid & Liner Pocket, Brushed Stainless Steel Trash Can - Strong wide steel pedal, engineered to last 150,000 steps, that’s more than 20 steps a day for 20 years. 10-year warranty, we use the best materials and solid engineering so our products will last in tough environments like your home for years. Silent close lid, patented lid shox technology controls the motion of the lid for a slow, silent, quiet close, no banging or loud noises. 25 8 inches h x 13 3 inches d x 15 9 inches w — 36 0 inch h with lid open. Liner rim, flips down to hide and secure liner. Code m custom fit liners, enhance your trash experience with extra-strong and durable trash bags that fit this can perfectly for a cleaner trash experience. Keep liners where you need them, innovative liner pocket dispenses liners one by one from inside the can for a faster liner change. Nano-silver clear coat, protects stainless steel from fingerprints and germs.

  VELIMAX Premium Stainless Steel Bathroom Hardware Set 4 Pieces Bathroom Hardware Accessories Set Wall Mounted Towel Bar Towel Holder Hook Toilet Paper Holder, Brushed - Premium material, constructed from sus304(18/8) stainless steel which prevents rust and corrosion in your bathroom for long lasting durability, the 4-piece bathroom hardware set provides easy access and display of towels, robe and toilet paper for your bathroom plus, the metal construction makes sure you get many years of use out of this bath hardware set. Modern & safe design, designed with clean lines and sturdy construction, the bathroom hardware accessory sets provide everyday efficiency with style unique squared shape and concealed mounting hole add a touch of modern design to your bathroom, chamfering edges protect your body from scratching. Premier finishing process, the delicate finish protects it from corrosion and rust in the damp environment and enhances durability the brushed finish brings unsurpassed beauty to your kitchen or bathroom and resists spots and scratches to ensure flawless appearance for years this feature means that you will spend less time and money on maintenance through everyday use. Space-saving towel bar, the square hook is a handy place to store your robe or towel between showers, the toilet paper dispenser can offer excellent support to a roll with a maximum length of up to 4-3/4″ the towel ring and towel bar are handy places to store your towels and washed clothes that keep your towels dry and within reach. Easy installation, come with all the mounting accessories needed, premium stainless steel screws and top quality anchors which are of good quality and the screws are concealed that gives it a more clean and attractive look available in various finishes, you can mount it to any flat surface, bathroom wall, sheetrock walls or wood door.

  All-Clad BD552043 D5 Brushed 18/10 Stainless Steel 5-Ply Bonded Dishwasher Safe Soup Pot with Lid Cookware, 4-Quart, Silver - Oven- and broiler-safe up to 600 degrees f optimized for induction dishwasher-safe limited lifetime warranty made in usa. 5-ply bonded construction with alternating layers of stainless steel and conductive aluminum for warp-free strength and even heating throughout. Highly polished stainless-steel cooking surface with starburst finish offers superior stick resistance and easy maintenance, plus won’t react with food. Capacity etched on base heat-resistant stainless-steel handles with large bolster and permanently secured with stainless-steel rivets flat stainless-steel lids flared pouring rims. 4-quart soup pot with extra-tall sides, ideal for a wide range of uses, including simmering soups, slow-cooking pasta sauces, preparing grains and boiling vegetables.

Agilenano - News from Agilenano from shopsnetwork (4 sites) https://agilenano.com/blogs/news/19-greatest-brushed-stainless-steels

[leibal]

Kona-Shoyu Container is a minimalist soy sauce bottle created by Tokyo-based designers Nendo. Previous containers have small mouths and not only was it difficult to gage the quantity, but there was also an issue that the kona-shoyu could spout all at once, and were not fully adapting to the “evolution” of soy sauce. For designing a new container, ideas were taken from traditional ladles used in tea ceremonies and water pails used at chozusha, which is a water ablution pavilion at shrines. When cleansing oneself at the chozusha, you do not put your hand directly into the water, but first draw water with the water pail and then use the water from it. The mouth section of the new container was bowl-shaped with a lid, and enabled the user to check the quantity of the kona-shoyu per usage. Also by just turning over the wrist, the shoyu can be sprinkled on to the food evenly. The back of the bowl was slightly flattened so it can be easily laid down, enabling the mouth of the bowl to act as a “funnel” facilitating the process of refilling the kona-shoyu. One bag-full of kona-shoyu in the bowl will pour into the container by simply tilting the handle towards you. The size of the bowl and the slant of the neck section was reached after repeated verification, so that the kona-shoyu will not gush out before the quantity was confirmed, and the kona-shoyu left in the bowl can go back smoothly into the container.

[lifeinexperiences]

10 Days in Japan

In November, thanks to the generosity of our family and friends, my new husband and I traveled to Japan for our honeymoon.  We were driven by a fascination for Japanese art, the peaceful way of life and all the lessons this magnificent country had to teach us.  Immediately, I was surprised by the generosity of strangers to help us find our way.  An elderly woman on a train platform redirected us from the local to the express to our destination.  A train operator read the handwritten map we had been given by a hotel concierge and walked us to our train.  Teenagers on the street showed us to the best ramen house in the area and told us about their sympathy for Americans living under a new, world hated president.  JR Passes in hand, we visited Tokyo, Izu, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka over the course of 10 days.  I spent each train ride watching for cranes in the mud.  They stood regally next to canals and river banks and flew effortlessly over rice fields.  I felt blessed by each one, as if they were telling me to journey on.

It took 4 trains and a bus to travel from Tokyo to Arai Ryokan, a traditional style inn built in 1872, which is hidden away in the mountain town of Izu.  The property and its buildings are national registered cultural assets and are kept up immaculately.  Here we learned the joy of minimalism.  Our room, complete with tatami mats, futons on the floor and a sitting area overlooking the stream contained only one piece of art and a vase below it with a single flower.  At first it felt sparse.  But after a long soak in the natural hot springs, I sat in my yukata robe sipping tea and admired the painted hanging scroll.  And it made sense!  Being the only piece of artwork in the room, set back in an alcove with its own light, that scroll commanded appreciation.   Later, at the Isuien Gardens, we learned that every traditional tea room is decorated in this way, so that guests truly appreciate the artwork displayed.  There is something to be said for only displaying that which you truly treasure and giving it your full attention.

One of the most calming moments on our trip was a visit to a bamboo grove in Izu. We followed a path from Shuzenji Temple, walking past a series of mossy stone shrines that had been marking this path for centuries and tiny shops selling statues, charms and household goods. We took a right after admiring a home’s collection of bonsai trees to encounter the tallest bamboo we’d ever seen. The sun shown through the sturdy stalks and colored the grove with yellow and orange. It was silent except for the flow of the river bordering the grove. A few people could be seen ahead of us, quietly admiring the bamboo on either side of the path and smiling to each other. Every step felt important on that path. Intentional and memorable. The rest of the world melted away as the forest embraced us and invited us to stay.

Our trip to Shuzenji Temple was also our first encounter with the ritual of hand washing as a way to purify. We experienced Temizuya pavilions and fountains with bamboo spouts many more times during our trip, at shrines and gardens. Each time we found one we stepped forward and quietly scooped a ladle or hand full of water.  We let the water run over our left hand, then right, and then brought a little to our lips. Finally we tilted the cup back and let the last of the water run over the handle before replacing it for the next person. People peacefully waited at the entrance to each shrine to go through this ritual and enter pure of mind and body. It felt more meaningful the more times I had the opportunity to participate in it.

We experienced the ancient city of Nara through the eyes of a family that lives there, as they spent their day teaching us about history and ritual.  We learned the proper way to honor each deity as we visited their shrines.  Two bows, two hand claps, a wish or prayer, and a final bow.  While visiting the Great Buddha in Todai-ji, I lit incense and placed them in a large bowl of ash, while asking the universe for peace.  I lit a candle and prayed for my family’s health.  Standing before each guardian statue, I silently expressed my gratitude for their service and loyalty.  We fed acorns to the deer and scratched their heads.  These deer are believed to be spirits who the gods rode to found this magical City as the Country’s first Capital.  It rained lightly while we visited the Meiji Era Isuien Gardens, but they were no less awe inspiring.  The hills glowed with red Japanese maple leaves and women shuffled forward in traditional kimono.  We walked almost 10 miles that day, passing walls adorned with prayers, 10,000 lanterns ready for ceremony, a forest untouched by humans for over 1000 years, pagodas, shrines and street markets.  

In Nara we also learned what hospitality, in a Country with a passion for honoring ones guest, truly looks like.  We arrived with a package of matcha green tea sweets, which we purchased at one of the many stands in the train station selling colorfully wrapped host gifts.  As advised, I handed the gift to our host with two hands.  We were welcomed into their home as if we were old friends. They provided us slippers, gave us a tour of their small but beautifully decorated apartment and allowed us to help prepare the last few dishes for dinner.  Our meal was amazing in a way I can’t quite describe, including a colorful array of dishes holding fish, vegetables, rice and plenty of locally brewed sake.  Our host demonstrated his skill on the piano, my husband showed them his music on Youtube.  Endless questions floated around the room.  Our hosts proudly shared the photo album from their wedding with us and gave us gifts for our marriage.  The night ended with a traditional tea ceremony, our hosts allowing us each to try our hand at the art.  Even though it was late on a Sunday night, they walked us to the train station and waited until we were on our way to leave.

In Osaka we visited the Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, by taking a sunset ferry ride across the bay.  We slowly wandered the 7 floors of the aquarium, following arrows marked “route” through the different regions of the world and is marine life.  Beings of all shapes and sizes floated by, peacefully watching us watch them.  They looked so calm and free of the stresses of the outside world, I envied them.  Each turn on the route brought a new creature to admire and the blue glow from the water grew darker as we traveled deeper.  I felt the reality that we are all just very tiny parts of one living, moving thing.  And so many of the part remain hidden to us, out of reach but no less alive and important.  I felt so strongly that coexistence is the only way any of us can continue to exist.

Throughout our trip, I was amazed by the absence of litter, something we’ve become so accustomed to in most parts of the world.  The quiet on the trains and sidewalks also caught my attention.  The Japanese people show respect through attentiveness, care for the things that matter to them, a polite consideration for those around them.  I left feeling humbled and thankful for the time we were able to spend.  It would take years to fully grasp the peaceful way of life we observed or to soak in all that their culture has to teach us.  We merely scratched the surface and ignited an interest in learning from a culture so different from our own.  The message:  step outside of yourself and what you already know… you will be glad you did!   I will be forever grateful for this experience and what it taught me.  Until we meet again Japan…

[thedemonconstantine]

adventurepunks​:

“Zee would like that”

Nick took a seat next to John. “Actually I was thinking about putting a wind-chime in the study. For when our occasional guest decides they wish to address us when we are not in the room” For that knocking on the mirror and banging around grew tedious with two practicing necromancers reaching for the Other side.

Nick watched the tidy and neat way John served. The way he seemed to naturally know how to do it and the steps to take.

“Ah.” Nick remarked more interested in the result. “A lass taught you to serve tea. Interesting skill to acquire, I hope you served her satisfactory tea” How he could use innuendo with such a neutral face holding the little cup in his palms.

Nick stole John’s onion pancake well one triangle of them anyway.

“Teasing you aside, tell me about her. The girl that taught you to serve tea”

“Aye tha’ sounds brill it does, alrite! A sun ‘n moon ‘n stars, ‘ow bout tha’?” It would be a fitting motif for the study.

“She was th’ daughter o’ an oul man in a provisions shop in Camden, yeh know th’ kind tha’ sells all sorts o’ sundries ‘n fings. Brooms ‘n dustpans ‘n lil plastic toys fer children, ladles ‘n buckets ‘n batteries ‘n power plugs. Ketchup ‘n spices ‘n reams o’ paper. All sorts o’ fings tha’ shop gots, lil’ corner store but is nuh quite like a convenience store either. No cold drinks fridge, no alcohol or ciggies or ice cream. Just a whole assortment o’ knick knacks fer th’ ‘ouse.

I was dere lookin’ fer a cheap shower curtain fer Chas, ‘n I saw ‘er sittin’ on a stool just at th’ back o’ th’ shop be’ind th’ register, practisin’. So I asked wohe’er th’ ‘ell she’s doin’ coz I ne’er seen it afore.

It was oolong tea, I remembered. Th’ colour was a rich clear brown ‘n when she poured th’ tea out, it made nary a sound.

Just quiet. A beautiful stream of quiet from th’ spout o’er th’ cups. I was mesmerised. She asked me ‘ta join ‘er coz tea is nah meant ‘ta be enjoyed alone.

It was meditative.”

John had a thoughtful look tugging at the edges of his mouth as he poured another serving of tea over the tiny terra cotta cups, washing it out for a first round to warm the utensils, then he refilled the little pot and poured again, this time to serve.

“E’ery cup she poured, wit’ each sip th’ tea seemed to tell a story. First an introduction o’ th’ leaf, a mild wind tha’ blows. Th’ second is th’ flower tha’ follows, a blossomin’ o’ sweetness at th’ tip o’ yeh tongue. Third is th’ body, th’ bush o’ which it comes from. Fourth th’ bi’er roots, th’ earth, th’ salt.”

He held a strange grace when he was serving, an echo of what he gleaned from his time spent with this girl, and a whisper of a young lady with long white sleeves was cast over his shoulders, guiding John’s movements and she looked straight at Nick with a gentle smile.

“La’er I asked th’ oul man woh’s ‘is daughter’s name. ‘E said ‘is missus passed afore dey could e’en settle ‘ta ‘ave children.”

[jettkindlerau]

Kona-Shoyu Container Was Inspired by Traditional Ladle for Japanese Tea Ceremony

When you having sushi for dinner, you might not pay much attention to the Kikkoman soy sauce container. Well, do you know that the iconic teardrop shape was the result of 3 years researches and hundreds of prototypes? This unique shape container with dripless spout was designed by Kenji Ekuan, a Naval academy student who […]

Kona-Shoyu Container Was Inspired by Traditional Ladle for Japanese Tea Ceremony is originally posted on Tuvie - Modern Industrial Design