The Dredlocs in Kimono!

Time Flies.....I am okay!

2007-12-16T11:33:00.000+09:00

Ladies and Gentlemen...I know its been a while, but I have been busy. Graduate school takes a lot of my time. Fortunately, I am on break right now. YAY!!!!! Sara and I are working at Victoria's Secret getting a good discount. My first quarter of Graduate school resulted in a 3.66 G.P.A. I have never been so proud of myself. It was sooooo much work, but I did it. I got through my first quarter of school. Life in America has been an adjustment but I am still so thankful that I am back in America. My sorority sisters have been here for me since the day I stepped foot in Dayton. I have joined our step team...yes, I know that I am uncordinated...but I am going to do it. LOL. I cannot wait! I know that our show will be March 28th..so mark your calendars! I actually cannot wait until school starts back. I know that sounds weird to say...but I am ready to get back to it. It is so funny because Sara feels the same way. But I am sure as soon as school starts we will be missing the break that we are having now. I am so wishing that I was on a cruise or either in the caribbean somewhere in 90 degree heat with a sexy stud muffin by my side...wishful thinking I suppose. I know this is a bit of a rambling post..but I feel like I have so much to say and so little motivation to arrange a grammatically correct post. LOL. Lately, I have fallen in love with "HEROES," "Grey's Anatomy," "Ugly Betty," and "Survivor." I watch everything online beacause I think TV is the devil.lol... Let's see...ummm, I am still single, but content, busy yet lazy, tired yet never sleepy....I had my sorority formal in November it was really nice. I went with an ICE COLD Bruh.. I had a fabulous time with him...but nothing came out of it :( Anyway....I have decided to post some pictures from the last few months for your viewing pleasure.....(I did not feel like posting every picture from every event...so here is a brief summary).......

...September...

My first night at Therapy in September...

Club 88 with the Pretty Girls...

Tracy and Rahel...

Traci's going away party in October...

Central State's Homecoming in October...

Rahel sitting at the PLOT...

Leaning in October...

Acting crazy in the car...

...after feeding the Homeless in October...

Sara and I celebrating Halloween

Celebrating Halloween International Style...

Jason and I at the Frosted Pearls Ball in November...

Pretty Girls...

Jason and I....

Pretty Girls...

Thanksgiving with the Fam...

ohhhh that IVY love!

....me again...

Until next time...keep blogging!!!

Love,
Titia

The Fabulous Life of....A Grad Student. I am STILL International!!!!

2007-09-21T01:21:00.000+09:00

Okay, I know I know....I have got to do better with my blogging! Graduate school is kicking by butt and unfortunately I just do not have the time that I used to posses while living in Japan, to blog nonsense all of the time.

Today's entry is all about the fabulous, FABULOUS life of a Graduate Student. LOL..... Besides all of the readings (Yes, my reading load is A LOT). It is still so much fun! I am really creating a wonderful bond with all of the people in my cohort (12 of us). We study hard and have lots of laughs as well... So this entry is dedicated to them (or Shall I say us....)

Oweka (Nigerian) Me, Sara (German)- Yes, we represent true Internationalization...

Alex and Bill- Gotta Love em!

Sara and I in the place we spend the most time....THE LIBRARY

Formerly known as The Dredlocs in Kimono- That's me!

Yaghoub (Maritiana) Batyiere (Uzbekistan)- (I know..I cannot spell!!!)

Me after studying....(yes, we all tend to go crazy sometimes...)

My lovely friends...that is it for now. I promise I will be back at another time....I will try to form some sort of regulatory with my posts.

Until next time...Keep Blogging!!!

Remember Knowledge speaks but Wisdom listens!
-Travel With Titia

An attempt at an update...

2007-09-12T13:41:00.000+09:00

Okay...so it has been a long time since my last update....Gomene!

To make a long story (somewhat) short, I have moved back to America. I am now in Graduate School. This program is kicking my A$$. Sometimes I feel like I am the only one that is not "getting it." I have one class in particular PLS 703 that I am so scared about. I have done all of the readings and I swear this is not coming all together right now. I am hoping that one day I will just get it!

I miss Shimane- just a little....I do miss Japan quite a lot. I almost feel as if I cannot or should not call myself the Dredlocs in Kimono anymore. Well I guess "She" is just in hiatus right now. I am pretty sure that she will resurface soon. I am supposed to be finishing up this paper that is due tomorrow and I am thinking that I am just going to call it a night right now. I just cannot do anymore. All I am doing is sitting here looking at my screen. Well I guess one good thing has come out of tonight. I am finally updating my blog. It is well overdue. I should have done this over a month ago.....

What's new with me...check out Facebook. It is my new obsession. I am loving Facebook. It is all about being a student.

I still love Rugby...(cough, cough, cough...email me...LOL) Go Japan (Rugby World cup 2007)

Well to all of my fans I am going to attempt to start updating at least once every two weeks. I have kind of missed blogging as well. Anyway, I am off to bed right now.... Keep in touch!

Love,
Titia
Formerly known as The Dredlocs in Kimono!

****Remember Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens!!!!!!!****

MEMORIES!!!!!!!!

2007-07-27T05:30:00.000+09:00

I could not sleep...so I decided to blog.....

Taking a Trip Down Memory Lane
WOW! the past two years has flown by. I cannot believe that I have lived and worked in Japan. This experience has been truly unforgettable. From the very first moment at the D.C. orientation I knew that this would truly be an adventure... and it certainly has been. Like most people, I came to Japan to get away and start something new.... and it certainly was! I did not know that I was going to find me! I am a different person today and has totally fallen in love with me and life!

In the past two years I have studied Japanese, became a teacher, met people from multiple countries, lost 100 pounds and lived without heat in the winter! Hey, I feel like I can do anything now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

....and for your viewing pleasure....M-E-M-O-R-I-E-S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shimane Group B Tokyo Orientation

My first night in my house with Heidi and my predecessor Paul (August 2005)

My first festival- I wore Yukatta!

School Lunch (Kyuushoku)

My first weekend in Osaka- The Common Concert

November 2005- My mother came to Japan (Kyoto)

Christmas Day in Malaysia!

Christmas Eve in Malaysia (This was the drunkest night of my life)

New Years Eve

Vagina Monologues preparation 2006

Vagina Monologues Production 2006

Vagina Monologues prepartion 2007

Vagina Monologues 2007 Production

Golden Week 2006

Hamada's Leavers Gathering 2006

Miyajima!

Christina and Brooke (Hiroshima)

Festival of Lights in Yonago 2006!

New Years Celebration Taisha 2007 (Oshogatsu)

St. Patty's Day 2007

Seventies Party

Toga Madness

Tea Ceremony

Brooke Throwing that Peace Sign up!

Free Lunch with sam after Bowling

We Love Karaoke!

My Family in Kyoto 2007!

Leavers Party 2007

Hanging out with Eulenda and the coolest kids ever at Mirths!

Me-getting ready to leave Japan!

Time Definitely flies when you are having fun!!!!!!! Until Next Time Keep Blogging!!!!
-Traveling Titia

Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens!

****I am in the process of moving back to America so I probably will not have a chance to update my blog for at least a couple of weeks. Bare with me through the transition.****

Utilizing my Time....

2007-07-15T01:13:00.000+09:00

So.....I am gearing up for my huge move back to the good ole US of A. I have a feeling of "yay" and "yuck" all rolled into one. I am happy to get back into the rigors of studying but I am very sad about leaving my "home." I know that I can (and will) come back...and when I do- It will be fabulous!!!!

FYI....I have decided to start doing my blog in Japanese (as well as English)...That being said- be prepared for a change in the very near future.

The next couple of weeks.....Okay, I do not want you all to think that I am neglecting you all but in preparation for my new life (ie: moving back to AMERICA) I may not have the time to sit down and do a proper update.

Saying Goodbye sucks!!!!!! Last week I had two goodbye ceremonies (courtesy of my Elementary schools..) one sayonara party (coutesy of my Japanese teacher) and lot's of tears. I told myself not to cry but you know how your emotions never listen to your head....LOL. But I know next week is going to be the worst. I will have my last official day of school (at my Junior High) on Friday. I have been preparing my speech in Japanese (it is about six pages of reminicing..LOL)

I know that I have been a little lazy with uploading pictures lately...so here are just a few....

This is me dressed up as a Maiko for the second time....

This is me and my family...when they came to visit me!

Sayonara party...courtesy of my Japanese teacher....(check out my new glasses...they are pink and green)..Yes, that is Brooke sitting beside me....(I know she is so hot....she is taking applications if you want to apply...LOL)

me...at the Leavers Party...

Until next time...Keep Blogging!!!!
Remember: "Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens!"
-Traveling Titia

My Attempt At A Lazy Update....

2007-07-05T08:34:00.001+09:00

I know...it has been a while! I have been uber busy the past couple of weeks!!!!

Sooo...besides gearing up for my huge move (back to the US of A) I find myself questioning my decision. I am more scared to move back home than I was to move to Japan two years ago. I keep trying to find some excuse...some reason...to stay somewhere in Japan. However; I would be a fool not to go, right? I have been awarded a FULL SCHOLARSHIP to Wright State University for my Master of Arts in International Relations. I am going home and actually have something lined up. I should be happy. I am happy!!! I just have mixed emotions........

For 16 Days...six members of my family visited me here, on the Land of the Rising Sun. It was a great visit. We rented a car and drove all over (3,152 kilometers)....We started here in Taki then went to Hiroshima, Kyoto, Nagoya, Mt. Fuji, Tokyo, Osaka..then took a plane to South Korea, then back to Shimane. It was great! Busy, but great! During that time I had my 25th Birthday. It was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was in Tokyo visiting my girl Engle. We ate at TJI Friday's...and met some really cool ass people! I have fallen in love with Rugby (wink wink)...so if you are out there...call a sistah..LOL..I will post pictures later.

Leavers Party...On June 30th, we had our Annual Leavers Party. It was a great event. I loved the slide show....The whole thing made me a little sad...but I realized that I am really ready to leave Shimane. Well, I have to get ready for class. I will update more later!

Until Next Time....
-Travel With Titia

Eureka!!!! I finally got it! The moment of truth!!!

2007-06-08T11:51:00.000+09:00

After nearly two years in Japan...
I finally learned how to play Dodgeball (the Japanese Shogakko way!)

Okay here are the rules:
Players are divided into two equal teams. The playing area is a big rectangle, divided in half. Each team gets one half. All but one player from each team starts in that team's half. The extra player starts outside the rectangle, behind the other team's side (thus, there is one player from the other team behind each team). The teams "janken" (rock-paper-scissors) to see who gets the balls first – (I have played with up to four balls before).

The usual play:

Try to hit a player from the other side!!!!!!! (Generally, head shots are not allowed.) Any player who is hit must go to the outside, joining the original "extra" player from his/her side. The outside players must also try to hit people, but they must be behind the back edge of the rectangle. If an "outside" player hits someone, he gets to go back in for his side. Last team with any players "in" wins. The interesting thing is that all players are always active, and the "in" players spend a lot of time running forward and backward.

The bottom line is:
This game is DEADLY!!!!!!! TRUST NO ONE! For the past two years I have just been a “runner” (someone who had no clue what was going on...but just ran away from the ball at all times!) This ball can and will come at you from ALL directions! Always know where the balls are and you will be fine... HOWEVER; when balls are coming at you from four different directions it can get crazy! Once you loose sight of where just one ball is....plainly put you are DEAD!!!!!!!!! These kids will show you NO MERCY! When it comes to Dodgeball you are the ENEMY!

Finally I know why the Lapita Card is so important!

GUESS WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, I went to the store two days ago...and I did not have enough cash on me to pay for my bill. I was just going to put some stuff back...when the sales attendant asked for my Lapita (the store I go to) card...and swiped it. After doing so, she said (in Japanese of course) “Have a nice day and thank you for shopping here.” I thought to myself... "Japanese people are so nice...she just let me go with my groceries even though I did not have enough money bless her heart..."

Then...I looked at the receipt and noticed that before my transaction I had 4,500 points. After the transaction I had 4,320 points........ it was like a moment of CLARITY!

I went running back into the store like I was Marion Jones and politely asked (in Japanese)..."Are these points the same as cash because I just came in here and...” The sales attendant cut me off in mid sentence and just kind of looked at me like I was stupid for a second and then replied by saying, “YES!” At that moment I was filled with so much excitement. It took a moment for it all to register. Then I started thinking about all of the times that I had gone there and was down to my last 1000 yen until pay day...I could have just used my point card.......I am glad that I finally know what the damn card is used for....

Until Next Time...KEEP BLOGGING!

-Traveling Titia!

Another Day...Another Dollar/Yen....(that I have already spent)

2007-05-24T21:33:00.000+09:00

Today was just like yesterday...accept it actually really wasn't...LOL...

I woke up this morning at 5:30 and of course it was nothing but light outside. I took one look out of the window and yelled, "Fu$k! Why is it so damn hot in here?!?!?!" I literally jumped out of bed and was drenched with sweat from neck to ankle...yes, most of my body!

The next four minutes that I am going to talk about were a blur....I rummaged around my room until I found my fan....got pissed because the cord was tangled and I had to untangle it...find an available plug...then realized it was still broken from last year...got mad again and yelled, "sh$t! Why is it so damn hot in here?!?!?!" So...I decided to get completely undressed and try to catch some non-existant wind in my closed bedroom. As I had made the decision to lie back down...my foot brushed up against the fan and I lost my balance and actually stepped on the buttons...Then........IT STARTED TO WORK...Apparently, I never pressed the damn power button (not even last year...) I got mad again...but by this time..I realized that I still had an hour of precious sleep that I still needed to get. I closed my eyes...and five minutes later it was 7:45...OMG..when looked at the time I realized that I was going to be late for the first time to school in almost two years. I got dressed as fast as I could...I was late but no one seemed to notice because they were all in the gym. (I have no idea what they were doing....)

Why am I so exhausted? I have been tired for the past week...Just plain ole exhausted like I am mother of 8. I should not be this tired! I have going to bed a little later than usual...but damn, it should not make me feel like this....(speaking of being tired as soon as I finish typing this...I am taking my butt to bed!) Well, I am done babbling for now. I must sleep!!!!!!!

I AM NOT going to let the devil steal my JOY!

2007-05-16T11:07:00.000+09:00

Okay, I just realized that I have not done a long journal like post in a while...so today is just going to be one of those days. It finally hit me! Right in the face that I am going to be leaving Japan. I broke down and started crying and could not stop. I think I needed to cry....It was something that had been brewing for a while.

As many of you know going home to America this time was rather difficult. I will not go all of the way into detail but now I know I need to just be careful with...where I place peaces of me....

I am so nervous and on edge about this brand new transition in my life. I will be leaving a place that I have trully called home for the past two years. Everything here has been good to me. I cannot complain! I came to Japan as a person hurting and needing some changes in her life...and that is exactly what I did.

I.....
1. ......gained true independance- Living alone in a foreign country can and will help you grow up and gain self awareness. When I first moved here I could not speak Japanese, read Japanese, drive, do anything by myself. I had to overcome my pride and ask for help...and somewhere down the line I became a woman that I myself started to love so dearly! Titia is now independant and is willing to try anything. If I can live here alone and battle the cold winter time (LOL...NO HEAT sucks) I can do anything, right?

2. ....lost 93 pounds. Yes, that is right...a whole little person. I am now a solid size 12. When I first came here I was pushing those 24's. Do not get me wrong, I was STILL FABULOUS! But now, I am just a bit healthier. Diabetes, who? LOL...All trases have disapeared. GOD IS GOOD!

3. ........became truly international. I have traveled abroad before...but I can say that I have lived abroad with a great eclectic group of people. It was fantastic..is fantastic...

4. .......speak Japanese. Yeah, that is right. I can now communicate and I think I do quite well at it. LOL...Do not get me wrong, it could be a lot better. But...hey, it is much better than what it was before I came here!

5. ......met some of my best friends. What more can I say. Heidi...where did you come from (and leave to...LOL) Brookie B...You know what you mean to me! Engle, LOL...All I can say is my Mother wants to meet you..LOL...Erica, Onika... Whenever it comes to a party (in Shimane) we are three peas in a Pod.. Bex, I love you more than you could imagine! Leif, we will ALWAYS have the COMMON experience...still one of the best weekends of my life. Nathan, (happy face)..and for all of those that I did not name...you know I love ya!

6. .......fixed my damn teeth! Yup..they are straight as they can be. You all know I have a small (but healthy) obsession with nice teeth. I (heart) the orthodontist!

7. ......got into Graduate school. I honestly did not even think I was smart enough. I have decided to STOP UNDERESTIMATING Titia Delores. I can do anything!

8. ......sing from the depth of my heart. Before I came to Japan I sang..but never anything quite like how I do it now. LOL. I have so much confidence and it is almost as if my voice has matured.

9. ....become much more patient. Living here in the inaka I have learned to just let things be and run its course. When it is time....it will happen.

10. .....gained HAPPINESS!

So, as you can see...I just cannot let the devil steal my joy. I have come too far to go back. It is just time to move on to the next phase of my life. May God continue to lay his hands upon me.

I cannot express in words how my life has changed for the better. I feel like there is a beacon of light just floating around me. Living in Japan has forever changed me for the even better. I am sure that between now and August I will cry again...Happy tears are okay. But as we all know,

To everything there is a season,

a time for every purpose under the sun.

A time to be born and a time to die;

a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

a time to kill and a time to heal ...a time to weep and a time to laugh;

a time to mourn and a time to dance ...a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing;

a time to lose and a time to seek;

a time to rend and a time to sew;

a time to keep silent and a time to speak;

a time to love and a time to hate;

a time for war and a time for peace.
ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Until next time...Keep Traveling!

America! You never stop Amazing me.....

2007-05-11T12:39:00.000+09:00

This trip to America was…INTERESTING….

Congrats to:
Uncle Pete…AKA Chet!- I commend anyone who is willing to serve our country!!!
Nurse Adam- You Go Boy!
Tya- Holla at cha girl if you want to buy a house!
Me- I GOT INTO GRADUATE SCHOOL!!!!!

As usual…Live vicariously through my pictures….

Me and my Cousin Meagan…

Me and my uncle Chet

Me..Looking extra Japanesy…(Yes, those are leggings that I have on..)

Carmelita and my God son….(friends since fourth grade)

Tiffy T…LOL…and her wonderful soon Isaac!

The NURSES GUILD…LOL

Me and Chet..outside of Red Lobster…

Mommsy!

Me and the Girls…

Bob Evans Biotches…LOL

Me and Kelly

Ummm…I wish I knew….LOL

If you would like to know more about my visit and see some other crazy pictures feel free to log onto Facebook. As stated before being at home was definitely interesting….
Until next time keep on Traveling With Titia!

Too All of my Faithfull readers..

2007-05-09T10:13:00.000+09:00

an update is coming soon! I promise. I will tell you all about my trip to America, Graduate School, friendship, gossip...etc. etc. LOL

But in the meantime....I am wishing my blog Happy Belated Birthday. TravelWithTitia turned two on April 25th. Look for changes soon...

Until my update (which will probably be within the next three days) Be blessed!!!

Love,
Titia

TOGA TOGA TOGA!!!!!!

2007-04-16T11:15:00.000+09:00

Due to my girl Erica....I caved in and hosted a Toga party. Believe it or not I had never attended one before. (While at Uni I did what I was supposed to do..STUDY!!!!)LOL...

Awards for the evening went to:

The Toga King and Queen
Romen: The Julius Cesear Award
Leslie: The Cleopatra Award

The Donna Boniface Designer Awards
Rebecca: The Regal Design Award
Leah: The Princess Collection Award

The most Pink Toga
Julia: The Pretty in Pink Award

The Most Beautiful Fabric Toga
Karin: The "Look at Her She's Beautiful and Accessorized" Award
Norman: The King of the Jungle Award

The Cutest Couple in Toga
Will and Heidi: The "I came all of the way from Finland and I'm In Love" Award

The Get it Crunk Toga
Eric: The One Man Party Award
Himene: The Party Starter Award

As usual fun was had by all! Live vicariously through the pictures...

me...at the beginning of the night.

Me, Leah and Mao

Karen and I

In the kitchen....

Yup...that is Heidi in my arms...She came all of the way from Suomi.

Ms. Sara, Will and Emily...

Leslie was ravashing in blue...

..this is where the party went down...my house..

Chocolate City ALWAYS Representing...My girl Onika came all of the way from Tottori (3 hours) and my girl Erica came all of the way from Shikoku (4.5 hours)...

Representing in the pink Uggs...(Don't hate...LOL) and no, I do not often wear shoes in the house...

Cheesing Toga (Eric) Happy Toga (Onika) Kawaii...AKA Sakura Toga (Myself) Gitty Up Toga (none other than Ms. Erica...) Always Representing Toga (Gabi)

...after a couple of drinks....LOL

TOGA TEAM!!!!! We Always Roll Deep!!!! There is nothing like going to an Onsen after a night of pure mayhem...

It was a wonderful party and a great send-off for my upcoming trip to America next week. I am sooo excited! Until next time....

***Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens**
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

A Letter to Japan...

2007-04-05T10:55:00.000+09:00

Dear Japan:

I am leaving you for America. Please do not take this the wrong way, but I feel as if you and I need a break from one another. You have been really good to me. I really mean that! You have been a great influence in my life. You have influenced the way I dress.

You have influenced the way I drink.

Before I came to Japan, I never sat out to "Drink until I was HAPPY," but everytime you and I go out...that is what I do. I think it is time for me to change my behaviour and get back to what I am used to.

Believe it or not, this is hard on me too...But as Usher says, "Sometimes you just gotta let it Burn..." and in our case, it has been simmering for a while now. I mean just look at this picture...

I have been talking to America for a while now...and America makes me happy. America fulfills my needs. I know that America is there for me....and quite honestly I am not sure that you can do the same..Anymore....

Japan, please don't be mad at me...You will get someone new and better to take my place. In a year's time...I will be a distant memory. You will have someone else to share raw fish with, freeze in the winter time with, sweat to death in the summer time with, bathe naked in the Onsen with and someone to sing Karaoke with.

I just want you to know...this is hard on me too...I want you to know that....It's not you, but me. I need to figure some things out and I think you deserve someone better.

I apologize about breaking up with you in a letter....but everytime I try to talk to you in Japanese, you act as if you do not understand me...so I have decided to write you in English. Please take care of yourself. You never know what the future holds.

Love Always,

-The Dredlocs in Kimono

****Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens*****

Occupying my time!...LONG POST!

2007-03-22T11:09:00.000+09:00

I know it has been a while...but a sistah has been busy! It is important for me to stay busy during this time. I have had three graduations, three enkais, a tea ceremony and a crazy St. Patty's Day celebration.

As usual live vicariously through my pictures!

Taki-Junior High!

That is me and Miyuki-san after her third grade (9th grade in America) graduation.

Kohei and I (he only took this picture because his mother made him! This kid hates my guts!)

..throwing that peace sign up.....WARNING!!! YOU WILL SEE THAT PEACE SIGN IN MOST OF MY PICTURES!

The Ladies of the Hour...Shirane-Sensei and Kocho-Sensei (the principle)

The after party...In Japan we have enkai's (a drinking party with your co-workers)

Tagi Elementary school!

Mihara-Sensei, Kocho-Sensei and Konetsuki-Sensei...by far the funniest people you could ever meet...

Throwing that peace sign up...Mihara-Sensei and I taught Super English together for a full year.

Kocho-Sensei is making sure we see him throwing the peace sign in the air!

...the after, after party...getting our Karoake on....

still going strong at 11:30 pm....(ya'll know I like to be in the bed by 9:30pm)

On my way home..after a night of Fun, FUn, FUN!!!!!

Tea Ceremony!

...spectators!...

Ang...and I acting crazy!

Imaoka-Sensei is helping me...

I still could not get it right...LOL

...my knees started to hurt! Sitting Japanese style for more than five minutes takes a lot of effort.

...ok, I am ready to get up now....

Serving my tea!

Meghan, Susie and Ang...

St. Patty's Day Celebration!

me...at the beginning of the night!

me...bothering Kevin...LOL

uh...oh...I think I am getting typsy! LOL

chillen with Julia!

chillen with Romen (Julia's Boo...) I think I was typsy!

...the day after....

Random!

this is perfectly acceptable English...DORINK Menu....

Weekend Update....

2007-03-07T11:06:00.000+09:00

Sunday was a great day....Myself along with other Izumo JET's went bowling and then out to lunch. This year we used the bumper lanes...and yes, I still was the worst bowler. I think that Bowling is just not my forte. Nonetheless, it was fun times!

I have compiled a new list of songs that I am feeling at THIS very moment.....(This list changes 8 times a damn day...LOL)

10. Loosen Up my Buttons- Pussy Cat Dolls
9. It's Raining Men- Whether Girls
8. Victorious- Melissa Ethridge
7. Showstopper- Danity Kane
6. Clocks- Cold Play
5. Story- Ai
4. One Night Only- JHUD (Jennifer Hudson)
3. It's Hard Out Here for a Pimp- 3-6 Mafia (Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson)
2. Bossy- Kelis
1. Hung Up- Madonna

I know the list is pretty random...that should say a lot about my personality..LOL...

As usual- Live vicariously through my pictures!

Yup...that's me!

Me and Maiko

Posing with the "Ball"

Sam and I throwing that Peace sign up...LOL

...time to go....

me..in my town- Yes, I live on the beach!

Until next time!!!!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

***Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens!***

I'm Just Saying.......

2007-03-01T10:35:00.001+09:00

So..February 25th it all went down. The Vagina Monologues Shimane 2007. It was a great event. All of the monologues were awesome! I must say…that everyone…EVERYONE worked so very hard to make this production as wonderful as it was. I am so very proud.

This years theme was Reclaiming Peace! The fact that numerous studies and reports are done on violence against women and have resulted in equally numerous statistics emphasizes that violence against women is a serious problem plaguing the world’s women and girls.

Did you know.....
17% of high school girls are abused physically, 12% sexually
女子高生の 17％が身体虐待を受けており、12 ％が性的虐待を受けている。

324,000 = The number of U.S women who experienced intimate partner violence during pregnancy in 2000.

1 in 20 women in Japan are currently in life-threatening danger at the hands of a partner or husband.

Between 40-70% of female murder victims are killed by their partners
女性の殺人事件被害者の 40-70％はパートナーに殺されています

Every 15 seconds, a woman is beaten by a husband/partner/ex-partner somewhere in the world.
世界中で 15秒に一度の割合で女性は夫、パートナーもしくは前のパートナーに虐待をうけている

81% of men who abuse had fathers who abused their mothers
虐待する男性の 81％は、その父親が母親を虐待している

5 = the number of health years lost as a result of domestic violence.
家庭内暴力の結果として失われる健康年数

27% = the number of Asian women who experience emotional abuse by an intimate partner.
内縁の相手から精神的虐待を受けたことのあるアジア女性の割合

12,128 = the approximate total number of reported consultations with women's centers about domestic violence in Shimane since 1999.
1999 年から，女性センターに寄せられた家庭内暴力を受けたことがあると報告されたおおよその合計件数

304 = the total number of police consultations about domestic violence in Shimane since 2001.
2001 年から島根で刑事事件として取り扱われた家庭内暴力の件数

377 = the number of women's center consultations with victims suffering domestic violence in Shimane in 2004
2004 年に島根で家庭内暴力被害者の協議会が行われた数

116 = the number of women and/or children forced to leave home for their own safety in Shimane since 1999.
1999 年から島根県内で，自分の安全を守るために家庭を去らざるを得なかった女性，子どもの数

35 = The number of district court cases dealing with domestic violence-induced protection and expulsion orders in Matsue since 2001.
2001 年から，家庭裁判所が取り扱った松江の家庭内暴力にかかわる保護や排除の件数

15% = The number of women interviewed in Shimane in 2004 who knew a victim of domestic violence.
2004 年に島根県内で，家庭内暴力被害者を知っていると答えた女性の割合

7.4% = The number of women interviewed in Shimane in 2004 who admitted they'd directly experienced domestic violence.
2004年，島根県内で直接的に家庭内暴力を受けたと答えた女性の割合

Statistics from…
· Shimane prefecture scheme for the prevention of Domestic Violence, July 2005
· Hiromi Ikeuchi (on Domestic Violence in Japan)
http://www.wom-jp.org/
· Domestic Violence in Asian Communities, Fact sheet 2005
http://www.apianf.org/
· Stop violence against women, Minnesota advocates for human rights
http://www.stopvaw.org
· (Violence during pregnancy) US Maternal child health journal, 2000

All in all….I feel as if an enlightenment has occurred. This year there was twice as many people in attendance of the show than last year. Obviously…we are spreading the word. Let’s End Violence……

As usual…Live vicariously through the pictures!

..All About VDAY…(Thanks Erin!!!!)

The 2007 Spotlight- Women in Conflict Zones

…We were getting ready to MOAN….

Gemma…was feeling it!

I do believe that….that was the African-American MOAN…

..yup..that’s Brookie B!

..They Beat the Girl out of my boy…Or so they tried!...

..Onika..and Hair!

..Katy..representing…

…Hannah and Mindy!

..Rebecca’s Vagina was ANGRY!!!!!

..taking it ALL in!

…they gave me flowers…(yes, I cried…I love you all!!!)

The 2007 V-Day Shimane Cast….Thank you!

And…..Thanks to the lovely YouTube…Check out my girl Onika…talking about….

HAIR….

For more information about the Vagina Monologues please visit http://www.vday.org/!

****Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens!****
-The Dredlocs in Kimono!

You Know You Have Been in Japan Too Long When.....

2007-02-22T12:58:00.000+09:00

...this a great compliment to school lunch!

...when RAMEN becomes a delicious and mouth watering thought!

...when you realize that this school lunch was the highlight of your day!

Have I overstayed my welcome? It might just be time to go home after-all!

-The Dredlocs in Kimono!

VDay Shimane 2007

2007-02-13T12:31:00.000+09:00

What I am feeling.......

2007-02-06T10:33:00.000+09:00

This is not an apology...just a statement

Love, By Musiq SoulChild

Love
So many things I've got to tell you
But I'm afraid I don't know how
Cause there's a possibilityYou'll look at me differently
Love
Ever since the first moment I spoke your name
From then on I knew that by you being in my life
Things were destined to change cause
Love
So many people use your name in vain
Love
Those have faith in you sometimes go astray
Love
Through all the ups and downs the joy and hurt
Love
For better or worse I still will choose you first

Many days I've longed for you
Wanting you
Hoping for the chance to get to know you
Longing for your kiss
For your touch, your feel, your essence
Many nights I've cried from the things you do
Felt like I could die from the thought of losing you
I know that you're real
With no doubts and no fears
And no questions

At first you didn't mean that much to me
But now I know that youre all I need
The world looks so brand new to me
Now that I found love
Everyday I live for you
And everything that I doI do it for you
What I say is how I feel so believe its true
You got to know Im true
LOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-02-01T10:41:00.000+09:00

You know the Bible 75%!

Wow! You are truly a student of the Bible! Some of the questions were difficult, but they didn't slow you down! You know the books, the characters, the events . . . Very impressive!

Ultimate Bible Quiz
Create MySpace Quizzes

I kind of feel like...I should be a little bit better....Thanks Himene!

It's Me Again....

2007-01-29T12:10:00.000+09:00

It's Monday....The weekend was great! I went to Matsue with Brooke and said goodbye to Good Ole Filaments....As Will would say, "It's the End of an Era...."

Anyway, I really do not have anything new to report...So, I will just share with you a picture of my shinning face... :) Stay positive!

-The Dredlocs in Kimono
Knowledge Speaks, but Wisdom Listens!

HIrata Elementary English Camp...

2007-01-23T11:29:00.000+09:00

Last Week I joined the lovely Ivy (to all my sorors...isn't that a great name...) and Paul (my predacessor) as well as a host full of other JET's in Hirata for a two day Elementary English camp. This camp had about 60 six graders...being engrossed in nothing but English. Next Year they will become 7th graders and will study English everyday.....

The days were long (real long....we earned a day of Daique...Thank you JESUS!!!!) but...it was well worth it.

As usual...live vicariously through the pictures.....

Ms. Ivy and Myself...

Kids..on the bus...on the way to the Grocery Store (They cooked dinner for us on Wednesday)

Acting Goofy with some kids....

Elated....

I wasn't even trying to be sexy...It just came out naturally...LOL...
FYI...I am taken...(Well, let me clarify...I am smitten over someone and I believe that Mr. 72 (that will be his name on the blog until I officially reveal his true identity) is smitten over myself as well)

Holla at cha girl!
Remember!!!!! Knowledge speaks...but Wisdom Listens!!!

-The Dredlocs in Kimono

Bloggers Most Wanted

2007-01-16T10:51:00.000+09:00

The Following People need to Update their Blogs…..

Now, I love you all…but we need to get back to our respective places in the blogging industry….

Lena

Your Blog Still says October….Let’s get with the times!!! I love you! UPDATE!!!!

Leif

It’s been since November…How am I supposed to know what’s going on with you if your blog is RARELY UPDATED

Jen

You are getting better…2 posts in the last month. I am definitely impressed! Let’s keep up the great work.

Erica

I know you don’t like Blogger…but We need to move past this…POST Something!

Rebecca

Com’n what in the bloody hell are you doin….An occasional hello won’t hurt you (This is done in a Sean Connery Scottish accent)

Tom

You did not even say goodbye before you left to go back to Aussie Land..It Saddens Me!

Nathan

You are getting better…One post in the last six month…hmmm…How about a little more consistency?

Jason

You are my Blog Hero…We need to know how Christmas was for you…Update Mr. It will be greatly appreciated!

Koren

I love you…but I miss your weekly posts. Come back to Shimane! You are missed!

And the number one most wanted….

Brooke

BROOKE!!!!! I need not say anymore…..

Bali Here WE come!!!

2007-01-12T14:55:00.000+09:00

I have just been informed by my girl Engle that we (Engle, Onika and Myself) will for sure be chillin in Bali for Spring Break. It is going to be a much needed and wanted vacation. I cannot wait. We are going to be acting ALL kind of crazy..Three sistahs doing it up....I am so pumped!

Here are a couple of pictures of this wonderful place.....(This will make country number 26 for me...Yay!!!)

Holla at cha girl....

-The Dredlocs inKimono!

p.s. I have decided to recontract.....
p.s.s VALENTINES DAY IS COMING UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy New Year!!!! From the Dredlocs in Kimono---------------Literally!!

2007-01-09T08:22:00.000+09:00

Omedeto Gozaimasu! Welcome to a new year! I am thankful for another year. I am so happy that 2007 is finally here. I have to say that 2006 was the BEST year of my life! I learned a lot about me, changed a lot about myself, and took control of my life.

I had a great spring (I made up with Heidi) wonderful summer (OHDA in the House….Thanks Brooke!) and a wonderful fall (I am so happy that I went home) and a good winter (thanks Taki!)

But…Now it is time for 2007…….

So… like the Good Book says:
To everything there is a season,a time for every purpose under the sun.A time to be born and a time to die;a time to plant and a time to pluck up that which is planted;a time to kill and a time to heal ...a time to weep and a time to laugh;a time to mourn and a time to dance ...a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing;a time to lose and a time to seek;a time to rend and a time to sew;a time to keep silent and a time to speak;a time to love and a time to hate;a time for war and a time for peace.
ecclesiastes 3:1-8

Mina-san Konichiwa!!!!!

Here are some pictures from my visit to Taisha Shrine with other Japanese people. Visiting Shrines during the New Years celebration (January 1st-3rd) is what most Japanese people do. Taisha (meaning big mountain of Peace) is one of my absolute favorite places to visit....(I will take you there when (and if) you come) This shrine is where most people go to pray for a husband or wife- basically for marriage....But, if you are already married, people also come to this place for prayer over their relationships. Well enjoy!!!

As usual live vicariously through my pictures…New Years at Taisha Shrine

Me, Kyoko and Sakurako at Taisha Shrine

Me, Oguni- Sensei and Sakurako

Me- praying for my husband….LOL

Praying again….

Another picture

Me- and these guys…LOL

Funny….

In the house

Eating Great New Years Food

Traditional Japanese New Year with Family

Serving Tea- Traditional Japanese

Serving Tea- Traditional Japanese

It's Friday!

2006-12-22T14:29:00.000+09:00

It's Friday....and the end of this academic term. I am so very happy! I never thought this day would come. Tonight we will have a very traditional Japanese end of the year celebration. This is called a bon-enkai. I am so excited....Lots of great food....great drinks and wonderful company. I am still trying to figure out what I want to do with my life....in seven months I will be back in America...a full time girlfriend, and hopefully a full time student....but we will see...Right now I am kind of scared about leaving Japan...Keep me in your prayers!

If it does not work out with me and Mr. Wonderful, I am moving to England...with Erin and I am going to work in a coffee shop! Well, Merry Christmas! Happy Holidays! I will blog more later....

Keep it Sexy! Keep it Safe!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono
......Knowledge Speaks but Wisdom Listens!....

Hot Damn...It's Friday!

2006-12-16T03:31:00.000+09:00

Okay...ya'll know a sistah loves Fridays! I cannot help it. Today is also payday as well...That's a double plus.

Today, I will finally buy a new laptop! Yes, I promise. It has been a long time coming and it is just time. I know, I should been gotten a new laptop...but it is Christmas time and now the one that I want (Sony Vaio F) has officially dropped their damn prices!

So...Yes, I am pumped! I have missed DVD's and the internet access at my house...It has been a little rough...LOL..skype, here I come! So, that is it for now. I will holla at you all later. Have a wonderful Friday!

Keep it Sexy! Keep it Safe!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

.........Knowledge speaks, but Wisdom Listens!

P.S. Being in Love is great...even from a distance!

Dear Japan...Winter Letter 1

2006-12-13T11:13:00.000+09:00

Dear Japan:

I would first like to thank you for the wonderful cold and rainy weather that we have been having. It makes me ever so greatful that I do not have a relaxer because my hair would be tore-up-from-the-floor-up. I also would like to thank you for the wonderful invention of death- also known as a Kerosene stove heater. Seeing that the temperature has dipped well into the single digits I had to break that bad boy out of the closet and pray that the house would not burn down and/or my lungs would not collapse due to breathing in all of the gassy fumes!

Japan, I am feeling a little needy today. I think everyone can scense that I am wanting/needing a little too much attention lately- could it possibly be that the holidays are approaching and the actual realization that I will be here (in Shimane) alone is starting to be a depressing thought?

I want some damn brownies!

(my fantasy)

Japan, I know sometimes you have to deal with me in such an awful state...but that is just how it is sometimes....Honestly, right now...at this very moment...I want to talk to HIM...but I think I am going to give him a little space right now (in edition to the 9,000 miles that we already have between us.)

Well...it is Wednesday (I loathe Wednesdays!) I have three schools and I just want to go home.

Anyway, thanks for listening to me and all of my concerns.

Sincerely,
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

picture of me.......

..........Knowledge speaks! Wisdom Listens!................

It's Friday!

2006-12-08T09:28:00.000+09:00

Hey...I just wanted to give you a shout out. I love Friday's!!!! This is the first of many I love Friday posts.

Please keep in touch...No one ever comments on my blog anymore.
*Sigh...sadness...Sigh again...I am over it*

What are your plans for the weekend? I am off to an Onsen tonight with Brooke. Gotta love the winter time in Japan...how else can we stay warm...Tomorrow...my girl Brookie B. and I will be chillen with surfers...*Mucho excited!* Sunday, Off to Kyuushu I go...*Yes, it is time for my bi-monthly trip.*

Well My lovely people...I didn't really want much...but holla at ya girl when you get a chance...Oh, and yes...my man will be here next month! Happy Holidays!!!!

I will leave you with some cute pictures.

some of my favourite six graders- in my coat...

you know who that is....

Until Next time...Keep it sexy! Keep it Safe!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono
..........Knowledge Speaks, but Wisdom Listens.................

Holla at cha girl....

2006-12-04T13:03:00.000+09:00

What's really good....
Well I must say things have been busy as ever for me lately. I have been preparing myself for the holidays. This will be my first Christmas alone. I am hoping that it will not be that bad. I am sure my family, friends and prospective boyfriend (yeah, I have upgraded his status to prospective boyfriend) will give me a call and tell me that they are thinking of me. Other than that, I plan on going to KFC and buying one of their "Christmas Dinners" and drinking some red wine. It is not as bad as it seems....(I am sure it's worst...LOL) I was told by a very wise woman (my sister) to relish the time that I am spending alone...because one day (when I am a wife and mother) I will think back to this time...and wish it was in existence again....

When Keeping it Real goes Horribly Wrong.....
It's too damn cold!!!!!! As many of you know Japan has no central heating. Therefore; I am cold outside of my house as well as in. I cannot believe I signed up for another year of this (as in the 2006-2007 school year). I will not be in the same situation this time next year! I am going home in July, hopefully to: Graduate School, My Man and a Mini Cooper.

(Okay, the Mini Cooper is wishful thinking)

I will probably be driving a beater....after all I will be in school...but I know one thing is for sure...me and my future husband (LOL...He does not read my blog, so he will not even know I referred to him as that...LOL....Let's keep this a little secret between you and I) are going to communicate on a whole new level!

Well, I think I am done for today. I will be back to my regular posting soon. Right now I am gearing up for the 2007 production of the Vagina Monologues. Hopefully this year it will be great! (I miss you ERock!)

I will leave you all with a picture of me....

Keep it Sexy! Keep it Safe!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

Blog Random....

2006-11-27T12:39:00.000+09:00

So...last weekend was great! I hung out with two of the coolest girls in Shimane...Brookie B and Jules!

The night started at a wonderful Okonomiyaki restaurant where we ate Bacon and cheese okonomiyaki....

oishii desu ne!

Then of course we bar hopped! I went into the voyage a defeated woman! As many of you know...I am a light weight when it comes to alcohol and Saturday night was no different. After drink one...I was pretty typsy.

Brooke being the wonderful hostess that she is...led us around the City of Ohda. We visited six different places...It was fun! Despite the fact that I sent one drunken email to HIM (what can I say...I was thinking about him). It was a cool evening. Well..I will leave you with a picture of Brookie B!

Brooke...throwing that peace sign up...LOL...

Until next time...keep blogging!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

ThanksGiving...A Day of Giving Thanks!!!!!

2006-11-24T11:18:00.000+09:00

Now you know it is Friday...My favourite day of the week. Yesterday was Thanksgiving in Japan as well as in America. Despite having to work (Bunkasai-cultural day) I thought it was a wonderful day. I was supposed to go to Hiroshima with my girl Brooke but due to circumstances beyond my control...I was chillen at my desk at school...then I decided to call my girl Maiko (Mai-chan) to see if she wanted to have ThanksGiving Dinner with me and a bunch of foreigners...She was game!!!!!!

So I picked her up an we drove to the Friendship house. At first, I think she felt a little uneasy because she does not speak English...but when she quickly realized that most of the people at the party spoke better Japanese than myself...it became All Good! So we ate until we could not eat anymore....Big Ups to the Italians- the seafood pasta was out of site!!!! Also, Ewan...I am loving the shortbread, please teach me how to make them...without an oven...LOL...

So, my lovely readers....I hope your ThanksGiving was as wonderful as mine! Make sure you tell your family and friends that you love them! Remember GOD loves you and so do I.

Me...and Maiko

P.S. I am missing YOU today! Hugs and Kisses....January please come soon!

Until Next Time...Keep Blogging!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono!

It's Official...I'm in Extreme Like!

2006-11-20T09:14:00.000+09:00

So...yeah, it has been a while...but I have been settling back into the swings of things. Being back in Japan, has been a little difficult for me...but I am a big girl. I will be okay....

I would like to take the opportunity to talk about HIM...

As many of you know, this is a bit out of my character, because I would not do a blog entry on a guy...but I want to let you into my world. I want you to know how I feel about some things. First and foremost, I met one of the most wonderful Men you could even think of....
1. He is a Man of God
2. A lover of Music
3. Genuine...
4. A Listener
5. A friend
...this list could go on forever....

Lately, he has captured my attention. I am enthralled by him...and I want the world to know. If you must know he will be here in January (sigh...sigh again....Big Smile!) I cannot wait to see what the future holds for me and this MAN. Keep reading...I will post more about my new mystery love...LOL...(Don't worry I will post pictures...and a name...after his visit...-because that is when it will be truly official)

Until next time...Keep blogging!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL!

2006-11-14T08:23:00.000+09:00

America was great! It was my first time back in a year and a half...and I missed it so much. I know now that I CANNOT stay in Japan for three years. I am done at the end of my term. I am going to go to Graduate school! (If I get in....)

On a side note...I met someone and I really hope it has a chance to grow into something. Only time will tell.....

As usual.... live vicariously through some of my pictures...

Yeah..that's right...I am representing the LAND.....CLEVELAND that is!!!!

My sister and I at my mother's Pre-birthday celebration...bringing back the 1970's (again)

me- in my mother's kitchen

My Dad and I

Me and my oldest friends...(left) Miyah- 10 years and (right) Carmelita 14 years

My Sister and Brother-In-Law...aren't they cute....

Mom and Sister

BFF Ms. Candice (By The Way HE was sitting next to her)

Me and My Girl Tameka!!!

Yeah...I cooked Japanese Food

Oiishi desu ne!

My sister and I

me and the girls....(sister and mother)

I heart my mother

Peace homies!!!!

Until next time keep blogging!
-The Dredlocs in Kimono

JET Lagged!!!!!

2006-10-23T20:22:00.000+09:00

Okay...so I decided to post a little update for some of you back home (Japan). I have been home now for three days and my sleep is still so off. I have tried everything to sleep a full eight hours! The most I can get at any time is maybe 3. It is a work in progress...by the time my body gets used to being home...it will be time to go.

My mother- My mother's birthday was great!!!!! It was so much fun and my mother looked like a queen. We had a three day celebration for her 50th birthday. ALL of her brother's and sisters were in attendace. It was truly special! I will post pictures later. I PROMISE!!!!!!

Family- A gift from God!!!! Coming back for my mother's party has made me realize how much I truly miss my family! I wish I did not live so far away...but at the same token, I have never been happier with life....What's a girl to do? You live only once, right? My neice and nephews have gotten so big. I could not believe my eyes. I swear time flies so fast!!!!!!!! So take a moment to tell your family that you love them, miss them, care about them...or just say hello...because tomorrow is not promised to any of us.

Well my lovely people....I will leave you with one of my Maiko pictures.....

...that really is me!....(Kyoto, Japan)

Until next time...Keep blogging!

-The Dredlocs in Kimono

Getting ready to get in where I fit in!!!!

2006-10-18T09:35:00.000+09:00

Here are some great pictures that Chris in Shimane took of me….while, I was doing my thing on the mic…enjoy!

Me-Smiling! (I was happy)

Somebody sign my ass please!

Doing my Thing….

Looking and feeling like a million bucks!

Well…I am off to America tomorrow for two weeks. I will post more when I get there. I will miss you all!

Also, as a little side note***I tried to change my template and blogger erased ALL of my external links! So if something is missing on my page that I had before…let me know!

Keep it Sexy!
The Dredlocs in Kimono!

The Count Down has definitely Begun........

2006-10-13T09:54:00.000+09:00

So…Yes, it is true! I am going home to America…

for a 15 day visit! Now, some of you may say….

”who cares?!” Well….I CARE!!!!!!!!!! I have not

stepped foot on American soil in one year and five

months. I am so excited!!!!!!! The crazy thing is…

it does and it does not feel like I have been away

from home so long…Some days, it feels like I have

only been here for a month or two…other days,

well they feel a little different…like I have been

here for years! All in all the good outweighs the bad!

Every time I think about going home…

I get a smile on my face….and it looks a little

something like this…..

(That’s me smiling…because, I am going

home…you know to eat COOKED fish…

as a matter of fact…I am not even going

to eat fish…I have a 15day NO FISH RULE)

I have been walking on cloud nine….As

requested, by Ms. OHDA a.ka. Utah’s finest…

I will put a ticker on my blog…Don’t worry

Brookie B…I will keep you “updated!”…

Well, I hope you all have a lovely Friday…

.Let’s keep it sexy people!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Dredlocs in Kimono,
-Titia (soon to be in America…eating some good

food…that I hope does not make me sick…and

being in a House with heating in every room) D.

MySpace Addict!

2006-10-03T08:41:00.000+09:00

My dear dear readers!

I want to apologize for the lapse in updating lately. Due to a little bird (Erica you know who you are) I am now obsessed with Myspace! I just cannot get enough of it. I was a faithful blogger for the past 18 months...but then I started SPACING and now I am an addict! I almost missed my damn train to Kyuushu because I had to check my MySpace page. That is a mess! So, I guess I have to admit that I have a problem.....

umm...umm...My name is Titia (B.K.A Penny) and I am a MySpace Addict!
Soo..in the words of my dear Shikokua friend....go ahead Space me! http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=103957875.

We all love the 70’s!!!

2006-09-22T13:00:00.000+09:00

So…yes, it is true I had a 70’s party and it was the bomb….. All I can say....GOOD TIMES!!!!!!!!!!!

As usual I will let you live vicariously through pictures…Enjoy!

That 70’s Gang…

Foxy Slim, Rainbow Sunshine and me-Candi….

Roxanne (Brooke) Bex (Rebecca) and myself

(Repeat…Different Pose)

Drunk and still fabulous…

Chaz (Nick) represented with the curly afro.

…Chocolate City.... Baby!!!!!!!

Ashley and Greg…Peace and Love!

Maddie and Erica…groovy times!

I want the WeFunk…Got’s to get Funked up!

Hey Foxy Lady!

...Flower Power....

Me…and Foxy Slim...

Awards of the evening were given too

Best Dressed Male
Derek- 1st place
Antonio- 2nd place

Best Dressed Female
Jenny- 1st place
Lena and Rebecca- tie for 2nd place
The Ralph Lauren Fashion Maker Award
Donna- the one and only

Last but not least....

The Hostess with the Mostess…..

It was a great party….If you weren’t there….you were definitely square….

National Update your B-L-O-G day!!!! Dear Japan....

2006-09-15T10:23:00.000+09:00

Dear Japan,

I would really like to thank you for the wonderful surprises you have brought me lately. I cannot thank you enough for scaring the shit out me while I was napping the other day, waking up to find this disgusting creature worming around my patio door. 　I began to scream and ask you, “what the fuck is this?” At that moment you sent no immediate response so I had to call my supervisor and tell him that some snake like fucking creature was in my house….He then rushed over with Kusuri (medicine) and told me… “oh, that is mukane (sp).” I said, “ok…can you please make sure that I never see anything remotely like this again in my damn house….” He laughed and said “Ok, we will give your house some medicine…”

Dear Japan,

I really would like to give thanks for the wonderful lunch surprises we have had lately. Sometimes I think you are so funny…I have expressed to you on numerous occasions that I would like to stay away from Carbohydrates…but you go ahead and give me a WHOLE loaf of fucking bread for lunch and then ask me (everytime) why I am so wasteful when I discard the bread (that I have to pay for monthly). 　Then as always, I laugh and say “I don’t think that I will be eating a whole loaf of bread and a pound of rice all in the same sitting. However; I am very appreciative that you do not serve me milk. It only took 9 months of not drinking warm milk and giving it away (after I told you I have lactose issues) that you finally got the hint and stopped serving it to me. Don’t get me wrong I love Kyushoku (school lunch). Where else can I get a full meal with 1,000 calories and full of things like this: 　for 230 yen? Sometimes you really surprise me though…I love it when you serve crab legs.

Well I will talk to you soon!
Lovingly - Your friend that is only going to be here for one more year.
-Titia

Miyajima, Hiroshima- Peace Park

2006-09-05T09:54:00.000+09:00

…so last weekend Brookie B., Christina (One of the best people from Utah you will ever meet) and I decided to take mini road trip.

Brooke was driving, Christina in the passenger seat and Me taking pics from the back.

After living in Japan for a year I finally visited Miyajima…

Bugaku

Since ancient times, Miyajima has been regarded as one of the "Three Most Beautiful Spots" of Japan, and as a part of the Seto Inland Sea National Park, it has received several distinctions, such as a place of extraordinary scenic beauty, exceptional history, a scenic zone, and a natural monument.

Miyajima Island belonging to Hatsukaichi City,Hiroshima Prefecture, separated from the mainland by the 500m wide Onoseto strait, is one of the many islands in the Hiroshima Bay. The island is roughly rectangular, with a length of 5.6mi(9km) and width of 3.7mi(6km). (http://www.hiroshima-cdas.or.jp/miyajima/english/stork/kanko1.htm)

Next….

Hiroshima Peace Park

Hiroshima is a name known around the world as the Japanese city destroyed by the world's first atomic bomb. The US dropped the bomb on August 6, 1945. After the US dropped a second atomic bomb on the Japanese city of Nagasaki, the Japanese surrendered, thus ending World War 2. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park , designed and built after the war, was a memorial to the people who died in the atomic bomb. In addition, the aim of the Memorial Peace Park is to help bring about the abolition of nuclear weapons and the realization of world peace.

Hiroshima-Jo (castle)

Hiroshima-jo lasted through the Meiji Restoration and was named a National Treasure in 1931 only to be destroyed by the atomic bomb in WWII

And then….
We had a little fun!

Brooke and Christina Playing on the Monkey Bars

Me…

And that’s all folks….Until next time, Keep Blogging!!!!!

1970's Baby!!!!!! Groovy Baby!!!

2006-09-01T10:36:00.000+09:00

Greetings and Salutations my lovely people! Brookie B. and I have come to the conclusion that it is time for a HOUSE PARTY!!!!! Yes, in the wonderful town of Taki on September 16th there will be a House Party like no other....Let's celebrate the 1970's......

The 70's (Seventies) will be remembered for wild coloured polyester, afros, The Commodores, Syl Johnson, Al Green, mood rings, pet rocks, disco, Bee gee's music, Saturday Night Fever, Charlies Angels, Shaft and Rocky!!!!!!!!!!! It would be lovely if you could come and have a groovy time. Please come dressed in 70's attire and bring a Japanese friend.

Let’s get GROOVY BABY!!!!!!!

For directions please email me or ask anyone that has ever been to my house…I hope to see you there!!!!!!!!!!

-Titia

IWannaBeOnTopDotCom...Info about Me!

2006-08-28T10:12:00.000+09:00

TELL ME ABOUT YOURSELF - The Survey
Name: Titia Delores
Birthday: June 22nd
Birthplace: Cleveland, Ohio
Current Location: Shimane, Japan
Eye Color: Dark Brown
Hair Color: Brown
Height: 5'8"
Right Handed or Left Handed: Right
Your Heritage: African American
The Shoes You Wore Today: Flip Flops
Your Weakness: Chocolate
Your Fears: Not Succeeding
Your Perfect Pizza: Seafood and corn…LOL
Goal You Would Like To Achieve This Year: Learn 500+ Kanji
Your Most Overused Phrase On an instant messenger: What’s Really Good…Pimpin
Thoughts First Waking Up: Shit, it’s Monday
Your Best Physical Feature: My smile
Your Bedtime: 9:45- I am a Morning Person
Your Most Missed Memory: Family Reunions and my Grandfather
Pepsi or Coke: Coke-but I gave up carbonation
MacDonalds or Burger King: Micky D’s
Single or Group Dates: Group
Lipton Ice Tea or Nestea: Lipton
Chocolate or Vanilla: Vanilla
Cappuccino or Coffee: Coffee!!!!
Do you Smoke: Ummm…No
Do you Swear: Hell Yeah
Do you Sing: Yup
Do you Shower Daily: yes
Have you Been in Love: I don’t think so
Do you want to go to College: I want to go to Graduate School
Do you want to get Married: Someday
Do you believe in yourself: Of course
Do you get Motion Sickness: No- Semester at Sea Alumnae
Do you think you are Attractive: I am cute
Are you a Health Freak: Sometimes
Do you get along with your Parents: yes
Do you like Thunderstorms: NO!!!!
Do you play an Instrument: I used to play Cello and Clarinet
In the past month have you Drank Alcohol: Yes
In the past month have you Smoked: Yes- I quit almost a month ago
In the past month have you been on Drugs: Ummmm
In the past month have you gone on a Date: Yes-Group Date...
In the past month have you gone to a Mall: No
In the past month have you eaten a box of Oreos: YES
In the past month have you eaten Sushi: Yes
In the past month have you been on Stage: no
In the past month have you been Dumped: no
In the past month have you gone Skinny Dipping: no
In the past month have you Stolen Anything: no
Ever been Drunk: yes
Ever been called a Tease: No
Ever been Beaten up: Yup- by my sister
Ever Shoplifted: Once…I really wanted some balloons
How do you want to Die: Ummm..what kind of question is that
What do you want to be when you Grow Up: A mother and a wife…
What country would you most like to Visit: FINLAND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a Boy/Girl..
Favourite Eye Color: Any
Favourite Hair Color: Any
Short or Long Hair: Any
Height: over 6 feet
Weight: proportioned
Best Clothing Style: uniqueness…
Number of Drugs I have taken: Ummm 1
Number of CDs I own: hundred or so all on my iPod
Number of Piercings: 3
Number of Tattoos: 6
Number of things in my Past I Regret: Oh…maybe one or two things

If you pay me.....

2006-08-22T09:36:00.000+09:00

On Average, You Would Sell Out For

$1,074,638

Blog Random....

2006-08-17T11:09:00.000+09:00

So I never knew that Smell and Smile were “similar” words. Honestly, thanks to Brooke I have to rethink how I say those two words…

For example, if someone says,

You smell nice. ….or You smile nice. ...You have to listen rather closely to understand what one is trying to say…
Try saying those two sentences really fast to someone. I guarantee you that they will say…huh? Can you repeat that?
Think about it……

Randomness…

Brookie B!

Evan…quite possibly one of the funniest guys you will NEVER meet…

Me, Eulenda…and the Newbies of Izumo (Angelo, Chris, Ewin and Hannah)

Leif…being well…Leif

Will…(a late CHESS edition)

Wales, Canada, and The good ole US of A (Nathan, Koren and Travis)

Hannah and I

Robert in Ohda

Until Next time…Keep blogging!

The Summer Festival Edition....

2006-08-04T19:14:00.000+09:00

Live vicariously through the pictures....Here are some friends of mine in Japanese Summer Wear...Yukatta!

Me...first

Mindy and Brooke

Angharad

Emily

Julia

Jenny

Rebecca

The Boys doing traditional Japanese Dance

Me, Brooke and Julia

More Dancing!

Festival of Lights

Brooke and I...

Don’t Leave Biotches!!!!!

2006-07-20T13:43:00.000+09:00

Okay I have been slacking on my blogging…so now is the time to catch up! First I must start with CHESS…My team

SNAGGLECLAW

of course was the number one group! Thanks to Travis and Sarah…You guys are both awesome! We turned a simple skit into something that was wonderful…Kudos goes out to all of the students at CHESS….You all are the future English Speakers of Japan…..

Then there was the Leavers Party…..

All I can say is….Don’t Leave Biotches…You know you want to stay and fighto fighto it out for one more year…..

Rob (Mitoya), Kate, Rob (Sada) and his lovely fiancé Kayoko

The man with the plan….Dan- an inspiration to all of us genki elementary school JET’s

Me…and one of my favorite Canadians…Don’t Leave us Koren!!!!

I got Love for you Leaver’s…I really do!!!!

Rob (Sada) and I…..He was the first to welcome me to Shimane (via E-mail)

One word….C L E V E!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Okay three words…I love you!

Camille…Thanks for the skis….I promise me and my ass are hitting the slopes…

Gotta Love Shimane JET’s…One big Family…(Yes, that includes you Erica….)

Both my favorite Canadians together….Let’s take a second to Cherish this moment….

Acting Crazy…The Shimane way….

2 Dredlocs in Kimono…and the Beautiful Kayoko…..

Rebecca's Party

Me and my Favorite chicks...Erica and Heidi...

Heidi and Koren

International Chillen at it's best...Canada, Finland, Australia, America 2X's

My Favorite Couple....Ireland (the real Ireland) and Finland

Me and One of my favorite Canadians....Koren, Don't Leave!!!

That pretty much wraps up this session…..but, before I go, I want to leave you with a little of my new favorite language…ENGRISH….
“Summer smiles intellectually sky green 120%. Shimane is Leaver’s away and tears today. Your happiness loveliness brings. Let’s smile purple together.”

It's Been a While!!!!

2006-07-10T18:32:00.000+09:00

I just wanted to say w'sup?! It has been a while...I have been uber busy...I hope to start my regular pattern of blogging again ASAP...I have not forgotten about you all...But, this time of the year is hectic. Old people are leaving Japan and new people are coming here...I am preparing for my Intensive Japanese Course...The end of the school term...and a lot of other things that are just consuming my thoughts lately...anyway, I hope to talk to you all soon! Stay Genki...and do not get bitten by Mosquitos...I swear I have at least 15 bites all over my body..and they are vicious!!!!!!

-One Love!

Tubing is fun!!!!! And so is Drinking BEER!

2006-06-26T09:25:00.000+09:00

So this weekend was definitely one of the best experiences I have had (recently). I went tubing down the Gonogawa River in the town of Kuwamoto. It was awesome…Although, I got caught in a waterfall..and damn near died…I am still alive and I lived to get drunk and laugh about it…Enjoy the pics..

But...first My song! (this is to be sang to the Take Me Out to the Ball Game music....)
Take me out to the River
Take me out with a Tube
Buy me some Beer and some CHU-HI
I don't care if I ever get Dry

Scream, Scream Scream for a lot of help
if you get caught in the current
For it's one, two, three groups of drunk people
who are too drunk to care!!!!

Kate and I before we actually got in the water…

Me, Kate and Leslie

Look at all of those tubes…

Matt…Bruno….the hottest man in Shimane….(we Love you Matt…Don’t go!!!)

We finally made it to the end….Exhausting…but definitely fun!!!!

I will not ever forget this….Internationalization…Look at all of those countries represented in this picture….

NOW…LET THE BEER BEGIN….
Yes, the Beer Olympics…if my memory serves me correctly(remember I was drinking too...just not beer...White wine!) there were four teams….The Red Team- Rigg’d and Tanked, The Yellow Team (and winners)- Yellow Fever, The Green Team- Die Irish Scum and The Blue Team- Blue Balls
It was a very exciting event…which was surprisingly taken very seriously (lol)…This was the funniest sh$t that I have seen since watching Def Comedy Jam…You just had to be there to believe it…

Leif…Drinking for his team

Lena taking one for the team (this one was my favorite event…You had to spend around the bat 7 times then pitch the ball to yourself and try to hit it as far as you can….)

Some of my favorite U.K. girls…Maddy, Fiona and Rebecca (Bex)

Crazy sh$t….the team that drank the beer first through the straws won…

But the best part of all…

I got a chance to catch up with people and relax…Good times!!!!!!

***Disclaimer...I did not take any of these pictures....I stole them from Koren...She is wonderful...Also if any of these images are offensive and or derrogoratory...then please go drink a beer*****

Birthday Blogging........

2006-06-22T13:33:00.000+09:00

Yup...It is official.....I am another year older....

I am happy despite all of the rain...and missing my family a bit...but that is what growing up is all about....I am just a happy camper today! Happy Birthday to Me....Happy Birthday to ME.....Happy Birthday to ME....Happy Birthday to Me!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JUNE BABIES!!!!! Have a wonderful birthday!

Until Next Time...Keep Blogging!!!

Saying Goodbye is a BE-YOTCH!!!!

2006-06-20T18:08:00.000+09:00

No one likes to say goodbye, see you again or as we say so very often, Sayonara! It hurts deep down inside. Why is it that we as people try to avoid the inevitable? Our time here in Japan is designed to be no more than three years...We know this...We even start to plan ahead, but when the time comes to leave....It can smack you right in the face.....

No, I am not leaving yet...I still have one more year (two years will be my maximum!) but I am loosing a part of me. I have made some great connections from all over the world..and it hurts to know that most of these people, I will never see again...I guess that is life, right? It just sucks and it hurts....So what do most of us do...We try to avoid...saying goodbye...We get angry at the drop of a hat, especially when someone starts to talk about "life after Japan" could there actually be such a thing? LOL...Of course! It is called R-E-A-L L-I-F-E!

It saddens me....Some of the connections that I have made this past year were extremely deep ones. As I sit here and write this, my eyes are swelled with tears...Tears of happiness for the future...Tears of saddens for the past....Who would have thought....I never in a million years thought that I would develop anymore (deep) friendships at my age...They say most of your "deep" friendships are those that we still cherish from gradeschool....(you know who you are...Tiffany, Tonya, Miyah, Joyce, Carmelita, Roz....) but at this wonderful time in my life...coming to Japan...I had no intentions on finding new "friends"...but I did...Thank you!

To you know who....I have not been pleasant... I have been a little...well, you get the picture...but it is hard for you to see it from my point of view....I am going to miss you! It is so hard thinking about saying goodbye next month. I feel like we already have...You are never here....and I am never there...I know that at one time...I was important...and I understand that you have other things to be concerened with....Do what you have to do. But, know this...That I tried! and I tried! But, (as Joyce so eloquently has up on MSN) "If I am an option to you, why should you be a priority to me?" Balance is the key...I cannot tell you this over the phone or even in person because this will inevitably turn into an argument...but I feel as though there is no balance with this...The scale is always tipped one way or another...it is never even....If you are with one person ALL of the TIME....and then you suddenly S-T-O-P...because you are "no longer interested" how can you not expect anomosity.....? So I bid you farewell...and I pray that GOD keeps you and protects you......You will always have a special place in my heart...for the wonderful act of service you performed...but, I must say goodbye....

Mina-san Until Next Time...Keep Blogging!!!!!...Don't forget my birthday (June 22nd)...Peace HOMIES!!!!

The Ben Harper Phenomenon…..

2006-06-14T11:12:00.000+09:00

Yes, it has taken me a while to post this…but my good friend Brooke and I decided to trek our a$$es during the middle of the week to Hiroshima….I love Hiroshima! We saw Ben Harper and and the Innocent Criminals．

Needless to say it was an awesome night! The concert took place at Club Quattro and it lasted for three hours….No, cover band…just Ben and his band mates rocking our a$$es all night long! I have a new love for Ben Harper He seems really down to earth. After the concert Brooke and I took pictures with the band. They were all oh..so…cool…I definitely would go see them again! If they come to your area…make that trek!

Da Vinci...anyone? What's the Fuss Really About?

2006-06-06T12:31:00.000+09:00

So…yes, I made my monthly (soon to be bi-monthly) trek to Oita Prefecture (Kyushu) and I decided to make the best of my experience. Going to Oita is like going to
America for a day or so….

They have Starbucks I love Coffee Frappacino Lite!　I spent my Sunday walking around with my coffee and loving the sites….but, then it hit me…
“Titia, why don’t you go see a movie?” Now, I know what you are thinking…going to a movie is a pretty “normal and regular” thing….NOT FOR ME!!!!!! Come to think of it…this was the third movie that I have seen in Japan…..I know…I am lame…but Movie Theaters are far and
very few in between for me. So I decided to see…

The Da Vinci Code. . .

Well…the movie was 2 hours and 28 minutes. It was not a complete waste of time…after all I did read the book and I pretty much knew what to expect…right?.

Right and Wrong! Like any movie that is adapted from a book things are always changed to make the movie flow together….As an avid fan of Dan Brown…I felt that the movie could have done the book more justice. (I am always partial towards books) but…at the same token…I do not think that the movie’s plot ..could have been better. I think this may be as good as it gets.

There were some things like…. the total disregard for the library (if you read the book you would know what I am talking about), The explanation (or lack there of) of the ROSE…(Read the Book!), Opus Dei, Silas’ past, Robert Langdon’s opinion about Mary Magdalene (I felt that he was way more confrontational with Sir Leigh Teabing during the explanation of Da Vinci’s Last Supper than what the book called for), the explanation of what Sophie saw that actually made her hate her grandfather, and the ending (where in the hell did all of these people come from?)….

I could go on and list all of the negative things…. but there were things that did surprise me……

Surprisingly…I liked Tom Hanks as Professor Robert Langdon. I thought he did a great job of portraying the Religious Symbologist from Harvard University. I would have preferred him with a slight bit of facial hair…(I have always pictured Dr. Langdon with facial hair…Read Angels and Demons…you would get that picture too!). I thought the scenery was great….I loved Jean Renu as Detective Bezu Fache, and Ian McKellen as Sir Leigh Teabing….

However…I was not a fan of Paul Bettany as Silas, the albino…

..Would it have been too much to find an actual albino to play the part…His (blue) contacts were awful! They looked so fake (as…a little side note…Sayuri’s blue contacts in "Memoirs of a Geisha" were horrible as well!). Also…nothing against Audrey Tautou ( I LOVED her in “Dirty Pretty Things” and “A Very Long Engagement”) but, I thought the role of Sophie was NOT for her!!!!!!!! To be honest, I have no idea…whom I would have chosen for the part…but it would not have been her…Also, I would have preferred Remy Jean (Teabing’s butler) to be much older and to have more lines…..

Okay….as you can see…I am like everyone else…I have my own opinion! All in all…it was a good outing…and I did get to eat real buttered pop-corn!

My final statement: The movie was confusing a bit in some parts but it was entertaining! I would give this movie a C+…but then again…you can always go see it for yourself!

Kobe...Osaka...It's All a Blur.....

2006-06-02T11:43:00.000+09:00

Okay…last week we had the re-contracting conference in Kobe…Of course it was madness!!!!!! I really do not know how I made it to work everyday! Thinking back…I think my ass stayed out until the early morning every night…..Here are some pics for your viewing pleasure…

Me…Erica…and Onika…Having a Great time…

Me…and Onika…Greek Love….1908- By Merit and Culture…

Brazilian Restaurant…Oishii

Uhh…ohh…We started drinking…

Me..and James….in the club

Hanging out…Outside a Club in Kobe..

The guys….resting their feet outside of the club…

Me…Feeling great!

Now…that was just the work portion of the trip…I know what you are thinking all of these pictures look as if we did nothing but party….Well….That’s all we did…But being the responsible adults that we are….We did get up and go to our work-shops in the morning….LOL…

Osaka…and USJ
Now..for the fun stuff….I was co-hearsed by my lovely wonderful friends to go to Universial Studios Japan (USJ)…It was so fun….Although…Erica and I did not make it to the park until well after 2:00…We still made it! The night before…she kept me out until 6 in the A.M…..

USJ!!!!!!!!!

I’m so excited!!!! And…I just can’t hide it…

My favorite ride in the whole park!!!! Spider Man…was the sh$t…

I love USJ….We rode on the Jurassic Park ride twice…The first time…I did not get wet…but I did not want to take any chances with the second time…so I bought a cheap ass poncho for 300yen (about $3.00) For some odd reason…I got SOAKED!

Representing…in the poncho…

In the Spirit…of Dinosaurs…Erica and I got ourselves some MEAT…LOL…We are turkey legs…

Don’t we look carnivorious….lol

After all that fun…We needed to return to our pimps and hoes district hotel…

Erica and Martin on the Train…(doesn’t Erica…look like a porn star…) and Martin…he might be quite possibly the funniest person in Shimane…Martin…Come out to play more often!!!

Of course we could not end the evening without not going out…..

Me…Erica..and Leif…somewhere…getting drunk! Good times!

And….that’s a wrap…Until Next time…Holla at cha girl!!!!

America...Fu$k yeah!!!

2006-05-29T10:14:00.000+09:00

I thought this was the dumbest thing to post on my blog...but apparently I am not 100% American because I do not donate to charity....

You Are 70% "Average American"

You are average because you wouldn't pay to go in space.
You are not average since you don't donate to charity.

How "Average American" Are You?

The Lena Factor.....

2006-05-22T09:07:00.000+09:00

This past weekend…Lena turned the big 22! We had so much fun…. (The following pictures have all been stolen from Koren without her permission or consent...)

The Birthday Girl!

Me…doing the club pose!

Playing a drinking game!

The Cake is coming…..

The Cake

Me….

That’s a Wrap! Happy 22nd Birthday Lena! I wish you many more!

I got Tagged! Now I am It....

2006-05-19T14:34:00.000+09:00

4 Jobs I've Had in My Life:
Teacher
Executive Assistant
Intermittent- Unemployment Claims Processor
Customer Service Representative

4 Movies I Could Watch Over and Over Again:
A League of Their Own (Love Red Heads!!!)
G.I. Jane (Demi Moore..need I say more…)
The Notebook (I LOVE THIS MOVIE!!!!!!!!!!)
Mona Lisa Smiles (Big…Julia Roberts Fan)

4 Places I Have Lived:
Taki-cho, Shimane-Ken
Columbus, Ohio, USA
Cleveland, Ohio, USA
Meadville, PA, USA (Allegheny College)

4 TV Shows I Love To Watch:
Alias (always will be a fan!)
ER (I have seen each season numerous times…)
Third Watch (I really love this show!)
American Idol (I love the beginning of each season..)

4 Websites I visit:
www.travelwithtitia.blogspot.com (I love me)
www.obesityhelp.com (yes, I have issues with being OBESE)
www.photobucket.com (how else would you be able to see my pics)
www.gmail.com (I love GMAIL!)

4 Places I have Been on Vacaction:
Malaysia (all over)
Bahamas
South Africa
Brazil

4 Favourite Foods:
Macaroni and Cheese
Chicken any way…(I’m black)
Hot Water Cornbread
Korean BarBQue

4 Places I would rather be right now:
In America
In my Bed
In a good book
In the gym

4 Bands (or people) I Can Listen to over and over again:
Macy Gray
Jamie Foxx
Stevie Wonder
Erykah Badu

4 Pet Peeves:
People who need to blow their noses but refuse to…(Therefore they make a disgusting “I need to blow my nose” sound)
Snorting and mulching while eating (yuck)
People who complain constantly (life cud be a lot worst)
People who lie (LIARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

4 People I am Tagging:
Erin
Jason H.
Leif
Lucy

The Hot Mess Years!!!! (1980's)

2006-05-15T09:42:00.000+09:00

****Disclaimer….Most of these pictures were taken at a very VERY Drunken State….Don’t Hold the lack of focus against me..or anyone I trusted my camera too****

The 1980’s were full of bright colors, big hair beads, punk rock and giddy music….So we decided to pay homage to those years…..The following awful pics are from the 1980’s party…enjoy…reminisce... and just be happy that the 80’s are LONG GONE!!!!!!

Loving the Gloves

Drunk and Looking a Hot mess!

Cat-A-Licious

Janelle and Luke…

Jen Rocking it like it is 82….

Maddie Totally Punk RoCk

Mr. Will

Maddie…totally Rocking it out…

The Band…

The Band…Again

T-Nice

1985’s IT GIRL….Heidi…

Punk Rock and T-Nice

The Breakfast Club…

Leify Leifer-San

Loving the 80’s

T-Nice and Leify Leifer-San

1986…Anyone…

Jenny…Representing for the class of 1985

Chrissy…Representing the Class of 1989

T-Nice…Don’t Hate

Brookie B…and Sayoko…Let’s Save Paula

Now I must take a moment out to introduce the Baddest Girls in the Land…The SAVE PAULA CREW…Our huge breakout hit.. “I’m T-Nice, that’s ERock, Brookie B and Lucious Lena…Together we are Save Paula Harmony…..” …We were the hottest 1980’s Band to ever step foot on the earth..until Drugs, Alcohol, Men (and in some cases Women), and Paula Abdual…came in our lives….You can see the whole story next month on the E True Hollywood Story…but for now relive the wonderful moments through pics….

Brookie B, Lucious Lena, ERock, and T-Nice…He’s a Cold Hearted Snake!

(I tried to Rotate this picture about 20 times…Something is wrong..Oh, Well)
The Group pictured here in happier times…

The Fall of Save Paula..Lucious Lena, Brookie B, and ERock…pictured here without T-Nice

T-Nice..Always trying to steal the Limelight…That Bitch went Solo….

Dancing to Madonna

A Drunken Pic…

Another Druken pic…

Yet again…Yes, Another Druken pic…

That’s 80’s!!!

Girls Are Made of Sugar and Spice....

2006-05-12T09:58:00.000+09:00

I am so cute....

You Are 30% Boyish and 70% Girlish

Even if you're not a girl, you're very feminine.You're in touch with your feelings, and your heart rules you.A bit of a emotional roller coaster, one moment you're up and the next you're down.But no matter what, you try to be as cute and perky as possible.

How Boyish or Girlish Are You?

I am a Bad Girl....

You Are a Bad Girl

You are 20% Good and 80% BadYou're a total bad girl, from your wild hair to tattooed toes.But you're too badass to even care if you're labeled "bad"!

Are You a Good Girl or a Bad Girl?

Golden Week...anyone...

2006-05-09T09:12:00.000+09:00

Okay...Well, I had a great and excited Golden Week...First and foremost, I cleaned my dirty house..I am now living in....cleanliness.....I have decided to elaborate on my travels through...pictures

On Wednesday...Brooke and I exercised and took our first helictopter ride...

The helicopter

Taki- from the sky

Izumo

Beautiful

Yup...the Beach

Izumo....

Izumo....

That very same evening...Brooke and I went to a restaurant....It is very hard to avoid the egg here in Japan...I ordered just a simple salad...and of course the raw egg came with it...

Egg..in my dressing

Yes...just what I wanted...an Egg in a bag...

Thursday Afternoon...we (Brooke, Lena and myself) sat out on our journey....We first arrived in Hiroshima...then we went to Iwakuni...Gotta love those Military bases...

Lena...being Lena

Brooke driving....

Lena...excercisng those drinking lips....

Me...in the car...

On..the streets of Hiroshima

So Hiroshima and Iwakuni was a blast...the only problem was...we did not book a place to stay so we rented out a Karaoke room for three hours and slept..then we slept the remainder of the time...in the car...of course we needed to shower...so we then took that opportunity to go to an Onsen.....

Friday Night (more like Saturday morning)...After that Brooke and Lena took turns driving to Kyushu...We ended up at Aso Youth Hostel...Where I was pleased to sleep in a bed. The next morning we awoke bright and early to go to the famous Aso volcano museum and an active volcano.

Me...after a night in the hostel....

Brooke and Lena...posing in front of the dangerous volcano....

Volcano...

This volcano is still active...and can erupt at any time.

Look at those dangerous gases...

Saturday Afternoon...We headed to Beppu where we had planned to visit one of the various sand baths that Oita prefecture is famous for...but first some partying was in order.

At the Bar...getting twisted

Having a good time!

Me...Loving me!

Sunday Morning around 3AM...Well we sat out for our hotel...Ala Camping Gear from Brooke's car Chateau...and pitched a tent in the middle of a public park...Yes, we were drunk...and Yes, it was raining the entire time....Thank God for the extra Tarp.....I did not take any pictures...I was too miserable to do so...(Although I did have a great laugh about it...the next day)

Sunday Morning around 9am...We ventured to the sand baths...but of course they were booked up....So we had to settle for the bath house...where we washed our stinky bodies....then Brooke and Lena headed back to Shimane...while I decided to stay in Oita for an extra day...it was relaxing and great!

Me...Loving the time I spent with....me!

Evil Bitch!!!!!

2006-05-01T14:33:00.000+09:00

You are very evil. And you're too evil to care.Those who love you probably also fear you. A lot.

You Are 78% Evil

http://www.blogthings.com/howevilareyouquiz/

Congratulations, you got 8/8 correct!

You Passed 8th Grade Science

http://www.blogthings.com/couldyoupasseighthgradesciencequiz/

This is what I get.....

2006-05-01T13:19:00.000+09:00

I am uncontrollably tired!!!I have never been this tired in my life...As many of you know, I went to Hiroshima this weekend with the Heidi and Brooke....This morning...I drove to school and decided to rest my eyes...needless to say I slept through the morning meeting...Then I was so sleepy I snuck away to the library....I completely stretched myself out over one of the tables.....I was sleeping oh, so good..until I woke up to the sounds of giggling all around me....I got caught!

The Weekend in Hiroshima......

2006-05-01T09:05:00.000+09:00

Hey....I hope these pics actually show up...but can I say that we had a ball!!!!!! Check these out!

Brooke and Heidi looking quite lucious....

I was feeling too fly!

I heart me!

We were at New York New York

...Again...I was feeling too fly!

With much LOVE!!!

The Dredlocs in Kimono
-Titia

I Must Post an Update!!!!

2006-04-20T14:14:00.000+09:00

I can't help it....There is absolutely nothing going on here....I am in a very happy state...due to the fact that it is almost Friday. That's tomorrow! I love Fridays! My motivation everyday is...I know that Friday will be here soon. Don't get me wrong I "love" going to work...but I prefer to be sitting on my couch watching a movie...and enjoying the greatness of BEING LAZY!!!!!!!

Work-out fanatic....I love being healthy...I hope my motivation does not leave me in the near future. I have been working out everyday for the past week. It is all a part of the new love for being healthy attitude. I feel like I should start a campaign...You better jump on the bandwagon while you can...Brooke and I have decided to do a two week challenge...We are both keeping food diaries, exercising, making healthier choices with our food selection. I also want to loose 2 kilos within this period as wel... I will definitely keep you all in the know....

Holla at your girl......Please do not be shy...send me an email..or comment or something....let a sistah know you are still with me. No one has posted a comment on my blog in quite a while...Do you still love me? Well, I hope all is going excellent with you wonderful people..

Until next time...stay Genki.

-Titia
P.S. If you have GMAIL please invite me to join...I really want to become a part of the GMAIL family...

A Year In the Blog!!!!

2006-04-10T12:24:00.000+09:00

This month my blog turns one year old!!!!!!! It is amazing because I started this site before I left the US of A to document my travel experiences and whatnot. To my amazement, this site has turned more into a type of therapy for me. During the past 13 months I have: moved to Japan; gained and loss 25 pounds; attended the kenshukan; met Common; had a poetry session on the streets of Osaka (lol…Leif, you know what I am referring too); traveled to Malaysia; met cool people; went to 1957 prom; fell in love with raw fish, Korean barbeque and sushi; my mother came to visit; been depressed; overly happy; froze my A$$ off (naked man festival); drank into oblivion (I love enkais); loved being single; hated being single; just stopped carrying about being single; wrote for the black taxi; was apart of the Vagina Monologues; missed being home (in the US of A); cried; screamed; laughed; hugged; kissed; been confused; etc, etc………….

And….all this and more has been documented on this blog! I could not imagine my life without the blog. I feel almost as if I would be doing a disservice to not only you all (you get to read and see some pretty cool stuff) but also to myself. I would be incomplete! It is one thing to experience great things in life…but it is another great thing to be able to share wonderful times with all of you…..

It saddens me….many of you wonderful Shimaneans will be leaving going back to your prospective homes….it sucks but that is life…also, to much of my dismay, my laptop died on me this past weekend…which means…my updates will probably be far and few in between now. So please bear with me….

Until next time….keep blogging!!!!!!
-Titia

Yes, I Am Still Here!

2006-04-01T19:15:00.000+09:00

Updating........
Sorry it has been too long...but I have been resting! I know that sounds crazy but sometimes you just have to sit back and relax. I missed the blog so today I am updating it. I have done a lot of soul searching and healing. This is the time to change my life!!!! I am on the quest to shed some things ....

Spring please come.....
I am so sick and tired of being cold! My heating bills are ridiculous! I am still living in just one room of the house. I need to spread out and feel like I live in a house and not just one room. I am going to pray for Spring....let's all take a moment.......................................................okay, I feel it...It is coming now!

I want to dance....
Oh, I wish we had a club in Taki. I would be there right now....dancing my a$$ off. I just want a good party..with no alcohol. Can you believe it...no alcohol. I have given up smoking (3.5 months without a cig!!!!), any type of caffeine (that includes coffee and tea), bread (it has been 4 weeks since I have endulged), carbonation (I don't do soda!!!!)...and now, I am trying to go on a 3 month hiatus from alcohol. It has been 4 weeks since my last cup of coffee...and you know, I don't miss it! My goal is to NOT take one addiction away and REPLACE it with another. I do not want to be addicted to anything! If I endulge in something I do not want to do so because it is a habit of mine.....It is just time to live healthy and work out daily.

Wish me luck
-Titia

2006-03-21T07:16:00.000+09:00

Candice...is my inspiration with becoming healthy...friends since January 20th Raleigh Airport...friends ever since.....

2006-03-17T18:54:00.000+09:00

Me...Just saying hello....

2006-03-17T18:38:00.001+09:00

The Canadian Connection....

2006-03-17T18:38:00.000+09:00

V-Day Shimane 2006

2006-03-17T18:37:00.001+09:00

Roll the credits.....

2006-03-17T18:37:00.000+09:00

International Vaginas...sitting on stage....

2006-03-17T18:36:00.001+09:00

Statistics...

2006-03-17T18:36:00.000+09:00

Shimane presented V-Day 2006....pre-show

Just Saying W'sup!

2006-03-16T19:54:00.000+09:00

Hey I have not posted in a while...but I just wanted to send a quick note to you all...and tell you that I am doing fine! The Vagina Monologues was GREAT! We raised over 50,000 yen and it is going to a great cause...(see previous Vagina Monologues post)...Well, I am off to eat my healthy dinner...I am six kilos down (13.2 pounds...) If you need me...you know how to reach me......

-Titia

V-Day Shimane.....The Vagina Monologues!

2006-03-03T17:53:00.000+09:00

Greetings!Yes, the rumours are true...
"The Vagina Monologues" are coming to little ol' Shimane this month and it will be produced and performed by many of your fellow friends and JETs!

Shimane V-Day 2006 is proud to present a production of Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues"! Please see the attached poster below.Please join us on March 12th at the Matsue International Cultural Centre (MICC) at 12:30 pm to see this amazing production and raise funds for a very important cause. Tickets are only 1000 yen each and all proceeds will go to benefit the Women's and Children's Support Network Shelter (KAZAGURUMA NO KAI) and the V-Day Worldwide Campaign to End Violence Against Women and Girls. Kazaguruma no Kai is opening a new shelter in Matsue for women and their children seeking refuge from violence. The money from the show will go directly to help purchase supplies, food, clothing, etc. for the shelter.

What is V-Day?
V-Day is a global movement to stop violence against women and girls, founded by V-Day Founder and Artistic Director Eve Ensler, author of "The Vagina Monologues." Through its fundraising benefits and awareness programs, V-Day helps anti-violence organizations throughout the world continue and expand their core work on the ground, while drawing public attention to the larger fight to stop worldwide violence (including rape, battery, incest, female genital mutilation [FGM], and sexual slavery) against women and girls. V-Day is also a day (on or around Valentine's Day in February), for which annual theatrical and artistic events – "The Vagina Monologues"-- are produced around the world to transform consciousness, raise money, and revitalize the spirit of existing anti-violence organizations.

Why go see "The Vagina Monologues?"
Well, besides the important fundrasing work that comes out of a production of the Vagina Monologues, coming to see the show is an amazing experience you will never forget. The monologues are diverse stories based on hundreds of interviews with real women around the world. These monologues range from wildly hilarious, to poetic, to enraging and all are founded in the beauty of wonderful story telling. And if you're still thinking, "why would I want to see a bunch of chicks talking about vaginas?!"...well, do yourself a favour and come see what all the fuss is really about!!

See you at the show!
Oh...and please pass this on to anyone you think might be interested.

2006-03-03T17:40:00.000+09:00

Vaginas, Vaginas, Vaginas!!!!! They are coming to Shimane March 12th! The Vagina Monologues will be performed by this wonderful group of women. This was the first V-Logues meeting held at my lovely mansion.

2006-03-03T17:36:00.000+09:00

The Naked man Festival!!!!! F**king Crazy!!! It does not get any crazier then men walking aorund in FUNdoshi in -3 degrees!

2006-03-03T17:26:00.000+09:00

It was a great day!!!
Fun at School!!!!

2006-03-03T17:22:00.000+09:00

Enkaii Time!!!! I lover parties!!

2006-03-03T17:09:00.000+09:00

From Mizuho to Hiroshima....Thanks Erin for Driving!

2006-02-14T18:15:00.000+09:00

Satoko (Japan) Lena (Ireland) Me (US of A)

2006-02-14T18:13:00.000+09:00

Looking pretty at JAGS Prom '57Event....Just in case you were wondering. I did not have anything to wear...So I just said I was from Harlem in the 50's

Winter, Winter Go Away.....

2006-02-14T13:54:00.000+09:00

Spring is in the AIR........
I am hoping that the cherry blossoms come quickly as it will be a great thing for everyone.
I am almost confident that with the change in weather moods will shift. Last weekend I spent a valuable amount of time at our 1957 Prom….where I was in rare form…..

I of course misplaced my digi-cam and I am hoping that it lands in my possession sometime soon. I am loving life although the weather is fickle. I am having a miniature bout with loneliness. It seems as though everyone goes through it from time to time. I am gearing up for the Vigina Monologues. It is going to be special. There are three groups doing the Monologues in Japan, and I for one am extremely proud to be apart of something this special!

Rebirth…..
I like to think about the future as much as possible…Sometimes we all need to shed some things (in my case pounds) to move to the level where we are trying to get to. I am excited for what the future holds. Well I just wanted to give a quick update….You know how to reach me….

With much Love,
Titia

Nothing much in my neck of the woods......

2006-02-03T08:27:00.000+09:00

Rice is the devil!!!!!
Sometimes you just need to rest! I have started a brand new thing...I am working out and eating right. For the first 3 days I was depressed....Me not being able to eat rice, is almost unheard of here.

It has been 6 days since I have started cutting out carbohydrates in my diet. A funny thing happend...I stopped craving them. Two days ago, I was sitting in front of a delicious piece of bread and for the first time ever, I did not hear it calling my name. LOL....It was as if that piece of bread was not even there.

Today....I am taking a rest!
Sometimes it is best to just take a chill pill. And....That's what I am doing....I will update more later, but as of right now, it's nap time!

I HEART MALAYSIA....

2006-01-15T23:56:00.000+09:00

Good Times! The next 67 pictures is just a glimpse into the great trip that Heidi and embarked on for our winter holiday. Enjoy!

2006-01-15T23:54:00.002+09:00

Heidi and Mr. Blues man #2

2006-01-15T23:54:00.001+09:00

Me and this guy....

2006-01-15T23:54:00.000+09:00

2 great people I met in Malacca. They were from S. Africa and students.

2006-01-15T23:53:00.005+09:00

The club owner and 2 patrons...

2006-01-15T23:53:00.004+09:00

I was trying to be artsy...

2006-01-15T23:53:00.003+09:00

Riding in the taxi..

2006-01-15T23:53:00.002+09:00

Another backpacker!...We love backpackers....She was Swedish.

2006-01-15T23:53:00.001+09:00

Kowaii..

2006-01-15T23:53:00.000+09:00

Heidi, after a great Christmas day brunch..

2006-01-15T23:51:00.001+09:00

Getting ready to party!

2006-01-15T23:51:00.000+09:00

I have no idea why, or what this is supposed to be..

2006-01-15T23:50:00.000+09:00

Another view.

2006-01-15T23:48:00.000+09:00

She's inventing Happy Magic....I guarantee you she bought that shirt in Japan...LOL

2006-01-15T23:47:00.002+09:00

The professor!