Sakura in Washington

In spring in Japan there is a tradition of “viewing the cherry blossoms” called “Hanami, which is not to be confused with the viewing of fireworks called “Hanabi”.  Hanami is basically a time to sit under a cherry tree, enjoy the view, hang out with family and freinds, and most importantly get PLASTERED!!  Hanami parties are some of the best parties you can go to in Japan, especially for a “Gaijin” (No Japanese).  I remember many times just walking home from work and being invited to join complete strangers for a drink or two and some wonderful food (mostly drinking). 

The wifey and I went driving the other day and noticed that there were what we thought were cherry blossom trees.  After a couple double takes we relized that they were indeed cherry trees.   We wondered if there were any Hanami parites going on or was it a little too cold to throw one.  We thought that it would be cool to have a BBQ under the Sakura Trees with some of our friends, but don’t think we can do it this year.  Perhaps next year we can organize an official Hanami party. 

Sakura - Cherry Blossom in Japanese

Gaijin - Foreignor in Japanese

Hanami - Flower viewing usually Cherry Blossoms

Hanabi - Fireworks viewing

Japanese Food Party Foul!

Okay so we went to eat dinner at this so “Japanese” food restaurant last night.  I was suprised that they had “Chicken Nanba”, which is a dish that was born in Miyazaki, Japan.  They serve it at many places in Japan and I would always buy it at “Hokka Hokka Tei” a take out food chain in Japan.  This place, The Bento Box (iirc) had it on the menu and of course I ordered it.  Well to my suprise what I got was nothing like the Chick Nanba I was used to eating in Japan.  I am not even sure what the heck it was.  It was more like a cross between teriyaki and ginger chicken.  Not to say that it wasn’t good, because it was pretty good, but it wasn’t what I expected!!  Another problem with the place was that this Bento cost $9 freaking dollars!!  Is that the Bellevue price or what?  The staff at this place was very nice and the service was great but I am not sure if we will go back again.  So far, I haven’t been too impressed with the Japanese food in Seattle.  Anyone out there in Seattle know of a good Japanese food restaurant?  I will continue to try and find one and document along the way. 

-ET

Seattle isn’t really that cold

I moved from Hawaii in January and I have to say that Seattle hasn’t really been that cold.  I mean compared to Japan and other parts of the world in the winter, Washington State isn’t that bad.  Disclaimer:  I know it CAN get cold but so far on average it hasn’t been too bad from a Kamaaina (Local person living in Hawaii).  I have a winter jacket that is usually too warm to wear during the day.  I end up having to take it off and put it back on.  I hope to pick up a lighter jacket, most likely one of those GoreTex ones, or any other similar material that keeps you warm and is waterproof. 

PS.  The days are getting longer now and I didn’t get too screwed up by day light savings time.  (The dont do that in Hawaii!!)

Seattle Life: “Was that Jesus?”

Is it me or is there a lot of facial hair in this city?  I was walking to work this morning from the bus station and i saw this dude that had hair just like Jesus!  The funny thing is I see all kinds of facial hair all day long, especially if you go to Whole Foods.  Every male staff member seemed to have a beard of some sort.  Is this a seasonal thing?  I don’t know yet but I am curious if during the summer I will see this many.  Hmmm… Just something i noticed in my first month of living in Seattle.

520 Bridge

I live on the “East Side” of Seattle just inside of the Bellevue line.  I take the 520 bridge anytime I need or want to go into Seattle.  One thing I have noticed is that the water always seems to be calm on one side and not as calm on the other side.  This has perplexed me for my entire time in Seattle, which is a whole 3 weeks now.  The 520 bridge is a low bridge and I am sure that has a little affect but I don’t think that’s the actual reason.  I have asked several people if they know why, and nobody has been able to answer this question.

If you know or know someone that might please let me (us) know!! It’s been killing me to find out!! 

Welcome to Seattle

Welcome to Seattle is what was said to me as I got off the plane 2.5 weeks ago.  I am now officially a “Seattle Newbie”!! I had only visited here once before about 10 years ago but for some reason I knew I would like the city, and so far I do.  This blog will be where I talk about all the things that I experience here in my new home.  Look for pictures, restaurant reviews, stories, and anything else that comes to mind.  I also wouldn’t mind having some other Seattle Newbies as contributors to the blog so if you are in my shoes and like to blog, please let me know!ET Seattle Newbie