i'd write my own jungle book!

My traveling aspirations have remained the same for years: 1. I will go to Ireland before I die. And, God willing, if I can afford to be any more particular than that, I would like to be there more than a week. And possibly hit Scotland up as well. They are my people too, apparently even more so than the Irish. 2. Greece fascinates me, Santorini specifically. I also think it would make a fascinating and exotic honeymoon. 3. And despite myself, I would love to traipse around Germany and/or Austria. If not, just to practice my German. And drink beer. And wear lederhosen while visiting Neuschwanstein.

Granted, if I had unlimited funds I would travel the world. No limits. Fjords in Norway...authentic ramen and sushi in Japan...quaint French countryside...the streets of Rio de Janiero...poutine in Quebec...Prague...New Zealand...Morocco...Cairo...Hong Kong...Singapore...

If all that doesn't happen, I will still die happy. But I'd like to officially add India as #4 on my list. For some reason, the word "fascinate" comes to mind again, but in a different way. I am devoutly Christian, but India has a certain spirituality (organized religion aside) that speaks to all. The food would be endlessly exciting. And who doesn't love elephants and monkeys???

ono kine grindz

I dined with my ramen concubine tonight. I am no longer embarrassed by my frequent trips to Yotteko-ya, a Kyoto-style ramen shop, but I do try to keep my visits to a minimum of once a week. This arrangement works out well for everyone.



Ah, Yotteko-ya, you serve me delicious paitan chashu ramen. (I order an extra side of chashu and have them put it on top.) You have, in my opinion, the best chashu on the island. It falls apart it's so tender. It melts in your mouth. It's heaven in the form of pork.



I splurged tonight and ordered a side of kim chee as well.




Although it's a Korean dish, most restaurants here with any Asian influence will have it on their menus. Mmm spicy pickled cabbage goodness.