Valentine’s Day, February 14th, is one of the most romantic days of the year – so it’s natural that we want to celebrate this day in a unique and special way! Japan celebrates Valentine’s Day a little differently than most other countries. How?  You will need to watch my show where I explain the difference… ２月１４日はバレンタイン・デー。一年の中でもロマンティックな日の１つ。・・・だから何かトクベツな方法でお祝いしたくなっちゃいますよね！日本では他の国とはちょっと違った習慣がありますね。さて、どんなものだと思いますか？　番組の中で違いについてお話していますので是非ご覧くださいね・・・。

This month’s program will show you fun ways to spread happiness and joy to all of your favorite people!  It is not about how much you spend on a gift, but the thoughtfulness and creativity that went into your gift giving.   Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, looking for simple and fun ideas for your family, or planning a Valentine’s Day party for all of your friends, I have some wonderful ideas to spread the love to all of those you care about – plus have fun doing it!  My mom always said; when you give love – so much more comes back! I hope the same for you! 今月の番組は、あなたの大好きな人たちに「ハッピー」と「うれしい」を届けるいろんな方法をご紹介していますよ！バレンタイン・デーを恋人たちだけの日にするなんてもったいない！　今年はちょっとアメリカン・スタイルに家族で、そしてお友達同士で楽しんじゃいましょう。 お金をかけたプレゼントより、ローコストでもハートを込めたクリエイティビティーなプレゼントのほうがきっとステキでしょ！ 今月の放送ではロマンティックなディナーを計画したり、家族のためのシンプルで楽しいアイデアや、お友達とのバレンタイン・デーのパーティーなどにぴったりなアイデア満載です。周りの人に、あなたがどんなにその人の事を思っているかを伝えて、プ・ラ・ス　２月１４日を思いっきりみんなで楽しんじゃいましょう！私の母曰く「愛すれば、自分が愛した以上に愛される」　あなたも同じことがおきますように！

Culture – Learning about Valentine’s Day in Japan and America
カルチャー・・・日本とアメリカのバレンタイン・デーってどんな違いがあるの？

Life -  Two Cute crafts,  Thoughtful Notes &  Creative Coupons
ライフ・・・２種類のカワイイ手作りプレゼント　「ソートフル・ノート」＆クリエーティブ・クーポン「ポケットフル・オブ・ラブ」

Food – Heartfelt Sweet Treats
フード・・・バレンタイン・デーのプレゼントにぴったり！なチョコのお菓子

Closing　エンディング  

New Updates Coming – January 2012

This portion of the website is dedicated to providing helpful information to new and inbound families coming to MCAS Iwakuni, Japan.

** Be sure to SCROLL down to read all the necessary information once you clicked on a category **

The original www.iwakunimcas.com website was created by Ms Lisa Stewart, a military spouse who dedicated extensive time and effort into building every detail of the site during her tour in Iwakuni. When Lisa PCS’d, my company sponsored the site to keep it alive as a service to the community, because the information was so helpful to so many people.

This information is UNOFFICIAL and is simply for the purpose of military spouses helping others.  If you find something that is possibly outdated or incorrect, please send a message on the contact form at the upper right corner of the page.  The air station is going through many new changes and we would appreciate your proactive help with keeping the information current for everyone to use.

A local favorite on Oshima Island

Here’s something to look forward to during those cold winter days…

Onsen’s (hot springs) are natural thermal hot springs, rising from deep within the ground.  The thermal baths provide for relaxation and rejuvenation after a hard day’s of work, sports activities, or just to getaway from a busy life.   They are famous for having therapeutic qualities too!   Japanese people believe that soaking in mineral waters will alleviate aches and illnesses, and other major symptoms such as skin diseases, diabetes, constipation, menstrual disorders and a whole lot more.

Onsens can range from those found at large public bath houses to smaller, more private facilities offered through hotels and ryokans, Japanese Inns.   Typically all onsens are separated into men’s and women’s bathing areas (children are allowed - see note for more info), and everyone is expected to be nude while bathing.   The men’s room are usually on the left, a blue curtain with “otoko” 男 written on it.   The w omen’s room is usually on the right, with a red curtain reading “onna” 女.   If you are not sure, ask !  Say and point ”kore?” (which one/this one?)

You will be provided with a small washcloth to cover up a “little” of yourself,  but generally no one does that.  

I usually place my washcloth over my face that way no one can recognize me (ha ha ha)…. okay it took me a couple of times to get use to.

Truthfully, I just needed to get over the naked thing and “love” my Latina body- it’s about “inner peace” not comparison.

Attention Foreigners

Bathing suits are allowed “if “ there’s a lap pool, otherwise when it comes to hot springs it’s perceived by the Japanese as dirty and inappropriate, so bring your birthday suit only.

Ahhh, take me away fro reality….

Visiting an onsen is not like going to the local pool, they have very strict rules (etiquette) and you will need to learn them before you step into the hot bubbling water.

1) “Tattoos are a No-No“   Today tattoos are extremely fashionable and bursting with designs and colors however many onsens ban customers with tattoos.   In Japan they are traditionally perceived “negative,” the image is gang related (Yakuza) and still socially unacceptable. I’ve heard that they feel it will affect their sales and customers who are “uncomfortable” will simply go somewhere else.

The rule is often enforced strictly to ALL,  including gaijins/foreigners and military personnel.   A sign will say this:  入れ墨禁止 (irezumi kinshi or tattoos forbidden). It doesn’t matter how small or tasteful the tattoo might be you may be asked to leave the establishment if caught.   If it’s possible to cover your tattoo that will help a lot or take a chance and ask the facility.  Show your design, maybe they will clearly see that you’re not “gang” related…times are changing and maybe their policies will change to.

Note: Kintaikyo Kanko Hotel allows tattoos (gaijins/foreigners) in their onsen.

2) “Do as the Japanese do“   Get naked...yes, naked.  Place all of your personal things in a locker or basket.  Next,  it’s time to shower.   Showering and bathing in the nude in front of strangers may seem very, very awkward at first, however the Japanese are famously polite and would not be caught dead staring.  You may find that the hardest part of being nude is having the discipline not to stare at them back.

Shower/Bathing Room

3) “Scrub, Scrub, Scrub“  Prior to entering the hot-spring area, you will encounter a washroom with showers and soap.  Scrub your entire body thoroughly, including your hair.  Walk over to the water area,  carefully step in and try to get comfortable.  Be careful the water is hot, adjust slowly and breath deeply.

4) “Shhh – quiet mind, calm body“  Keep your voice down and conversations limited.  I know, that’s my biggest challenge.  I love to talk to everyone!   The onsen is a place where the Japanese go to relax, very similar to a spa. If you are visiting with a friend, speak quietly to one another and do not disturb other visitors.

5) “Say Cheese?“  No photos/cellphones – period.   For obvious reason of course, unless you are in your own personal private onsen.    Let’s not go there, and keep this page PG.

Your own personal onsen – pricey but totally worth it!

Always be courteous and remember that people at the onsen are also following the same guidelines to ensure the healthiest and happiest experience for all to enjoy!   .

* Note: Children & onsens-    There is no problem with taking a children into an onsen.  Families do it all the time.  Just be aware of  good manners, “hot” water temp, and do your best to control your child.  Make sure you wash them well first, try to get them to go to the toilet before getting in to eliminate any possible accidents.  While in the water keep them from splashing, running around – the key is to relax, it’s not baby pool.

This segment is from our very first show!  ...gee how time flies!...

Back by popular demand and a few Japanese viewers wanted to watch – my “Ghostly Feet” craft! It’s a really cute and simple craft that your kids will absolute have a BLAST making them!!!

Sorry Moms,  it’s a little messy, but it’s worth it for the fun you’ll have.    Have a “spook-tacular” time and send me your photos!

Apples are not only delicious snacks, but they make great stamps as well.  With a few items and craft materials  you can create a great apple stamp projects that will allow your kids to make a variety of unique personal crafts.

リンゴはおいしいおやつになるだけじゃなくて、ユニークな形状のスタンプにもなるわ。材料を少し揃えればとってもステキな作品の出来上がり。お子さんと一緒にいろんなオリジナル・アートにトライしてね。

Happy stamping!  ハッピー・スタンピング！

For all of my Japanese and global friends who have asked about our Columbus Day holiday, here’s a quick lesson!
コロンブス・デイって何の日？って聞いてくれたあなたへのビデオよ。さぁ、どうぞ！

Our team decide to do a show video for this recipe due to the overwhelming demand for this rich hearty soup, plus the month of September you’ll be able to find delicious red tomatoes at your favorite grocery or organic store.

There is nothing like the combination of fresh ripe tomatoes and sweet basil leaves. This recipe is simple to make and full of rich Italian flavors. Your friends and family will swear this was prepared in a fancy restaurant.

新鮮な完熟トマトとスィートバジルの組み合わせほど完璧なものはないわね。このレシピは簡単だけどリッチなイタリアの風味満載。お友達や家族は、「きっとこれはファンシーなレストランで作ったスープを買ってきたに違いない」って思うわよ♪

Tools required: Blender or food processor
必要な道具：ミキサー　若しくはフードプロセッサー

Fresco Tomato & Basil Bisque
フレッシュ・トマト＆バジルのビスク

Ingredients：(6-8 servings)

1/4 cup butter
3/4- 1 Tbs. salt ( I use koser or sea salt)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 ½ cup onions, chopped
2 cups milk, warmed (low fat or heavy cream can be substituted)
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
Red pepper flakes, a good pinch
4 cups trimmed and cut tomatoes (or 2 cans diced tomatoes- if you use cans with salt added your salt ingredient gradually)
1 ½  Tbs. sugar
3 Tbs. uncooked rice
2 cups water (chicken broth adds more flavor)
1/4- ½ cup fresh chopped basil (about 2-3 tablespoons dried, add dried seasoning last)
6 sliced of French bread, cubed oiled and toasted
Parmesan cheese, shredded

【材料】（６～８人分）
・バター    計量カップで６０ｃｃラインまで入れる（約５７ｇ）
・塩　大さじ3/4～1 (私はコーシャーかシーソルトを使っているわ)
・ブラック・ペパー　小さじ1/2
・たまねぎのみじん切り　２４０cc分
・牛乳　４８０ｃｃ　温めておく (低脂肪牛乳や生クリームで代用可)
・にんにく　2～3 かけ　みじん切りにしておく
・レッド・ペパー・フレーク　ひとつまみ
・皮をむき、種を取り除きカットしたトマト　２００ｃｃカップで４カップと１６０ｃｃ分 若しくは缶詰のカットトマト・２缶（缶詰によってはすでに塩が入っているものがあるので、必ず塩を加えるときは気をつけて入れてください)
・砂糖　大さじ１
・米（未調理のもの）大さじ３
・水　４８０ｃｃ(チキンブイヨンを入れるとフレーバーが増します)
・新鮮なバジルをきざんだもの　カップで６０ｃｃライン分 (乾燥バジルを使う場合は大さじ２～３、この場合は最後に加える。)
・バゲット　５切れ、角切りにして、軽くオイルをかけトーストしておく
・パルメザンチーズ　適量　おろしておく

Directions：【作り方】

Large sauce pan melt butter over medium heat add onions, cook until soft and golden.
大きめの鍋を中火にかけ、バターとたまねぎを入れる。キツネ色になるまで炒めます。

Add garlic and red pepper, sauté for a minute.   Add tomatoes, sugar, rice and water.
にんにくとレッド・ペパーフレークを加えて約１分ソテーします。トマト、砂糖、米、水を加えます。

Bring to a boil then lower heat.  Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes
一度沸騰させてから、火を弱める。蓋をして２０～２５分ことこと煮ます。

Note: try to use fresh sweet basil leaves, these were taken from my garden.
ノート：バジルはフレッシュを使うようにしてね。ちなみにこれはうちの庭のバジルよ。

Next add basil and simmer for 2-3 minutes 次にバジルを加え２～３分加熱します。

Next, puree mixture (food processor or blender) until smooth.  Return to pan.
これをミキサーやフードプロセッサーでなめらかなピューレにします。できたピューレは鍋にもどします。

Add warm milk to soup base. スープ・ベースにあたためた牛乳を加えます。

Add salt and pepper.  Taste to your liking 塩こしょうでお好みの味に整えます。

Simmer for 2-3 more minutes 更に２～３分ことこと煮ます。

Add toasted bread cubes and top with Parmesan cheese.   Sugoi!
トーストした角切りパンとチーズを上にのせて食卓へ　すごい！

Do you wish to print this recipe? (PDF) English 日本語のレシピ

人気ブログランキングとレシピ･ブログのランキングに参加しています応援ポチお願いします。あなたの１ポチが元気のもとです＾＾

Please VOTE and click on the symbol below, if you like my recipes!

Sports Day (体育の日, Taiiku no hi) is a national holiday in Japan, held every year second Monday in October.  However many schools plan this outdoor event (called “undokai”) in the month of  September because of  the cooler temperatures.

This joyful event is celebrated throughout the entire country and every child from K-12 grades take part in some sort of activity.   Kids get a chance to test their athletic skills and compete with each other in a variety of events!   Fun to watch and event for the entire family to enjoy!   Gambatte! (Good Luck!)

Now here’s that cute craft that you can make with your children!  It makes a great gift for the grandparents too!

Enjoy the video clip below!

テレビで私の番組をご覧いただけない方へ、番組で紹介した体育の日の記念写真縦の作り方の動画を投稿しますね。あなたのスーパー・スターを飾っちゃおう！お孫さんへのプレゼントにも最高よ！では楽しんでご覧下さい

You’ll need:

a photo, picture frames, astro-turf, hot glue, sports stickers, whistle, – anything else you wish to add on.

If you are craving a little taste of Hawaii, I have the perfect place for you and your family to visit.  On the lovely island of Oshima 大島郡 there’s a small resort that can make you feel like you are really in Hawaii!

Interesting fact – Did you know that Oshima Island has a sister-state?  It’s the island of Kaua’i, Hawaii! Green Stay Naguara is located on top of a hill overlooking the ocean and surrounding islands.  The facility provides a great number of activities, sports events, and during the summer nights you can enjoy watching traditional Hawaiian Luau performances from local dance groups.

***  VIDEO – Scroll down to see the Hula performances!  **

We were amazed to see that the main building was painted a pretty shade of pink – very festive and pretty!

We were immediately welcomed with warm greetings and smiles!  The super friendly staff had traditional Hawaiian shirts on which made the atmosphere truly feel like we were in Hawaii.   We decided to try out a few fun activities during our stay such as rollerskating and mountain biking!

After developing a hardy appetite, we headed over to the restaurant to see what was on the menu.  No English menus, however each dish had a photo next to it, so ordering was no problem at all.  Plus, everything looked great!  I also heard they have a sensational Hawaiian Beer Garden menu to choose from.  I need to go back and check that out before the summer passes!

Wide open seating and beautiful view of an open field that spreads across the resort.  The kids ordered the “Loco Moco” burger (hold the eggs please), and some other yummy dishes. Needless to say there wasn’t a crumb left!

Konishiki’s famous fish dish…..sugoi yummy!!

After our sensational meal, we walked around the grounds to admire the scenery and other things this beautiful place has to offer!

Great fun…

Wish to stay a little longer?  Check out these lovely spacious cabins for your family and friends!

….and if you wish to relax even more, visit the resort’s hot bath or onsen that has special treaments for any spa lovers needs!

One more thing…every Saturday night (August 6, 2011) you can watch a free Hawaiian Hula performance by local Japanese dancers.  Sit back, relax and enjoy the video!  Aloha!!

＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊ Information: Green Stay Nagaura　グリーンステイながうら

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Here’s some interesting information, the name “pound cake” was given because the original recipe contained 1 pound of butter, 1 pound sugar, 1 pound of eggs and 1 pound of flour!  Good heavens that’s a 4 pounds of ingredients!  Today we have smaller portions and it’s slightly different from the original recipe, and it still tastes just as yummy!  Rich golden crust, super moist, honey-sweet, and buttery….be prepared this cake will not last long!

Sweet Honey Pound Cake

Ingredients

1 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1/4 cup honey (the Japanese loves honey, they have an assortment of flavors -try it with this recipe)
5 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 3/4 cups of flour, sifted
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Preheat oven 350 F/ 180 C  and lighty oil/butter a  6 cup cake or loaf pan

1) Beat butter, sugar, and honey together – blend well, until fluffy (about 2-3 minutes)

2) Beat eggs, one at a time then add vanilla

3) Add flour, baking powder, and salt – beat until smooth.

4) Spoon into pan and bake for about one hour.  Start checking after 50 minutes…knife should come out clean.

5) Cool for about 15 minutes and serve with a smile!

甘い! Amai (sweet in Japanese)