Author Archives: spikekalashnikov

This is a high speed scrapbook of stuff from my recent trip to Europe. It is really a personal archive so I don’t forget. The trip was dominated by my Mother’s cremation nevertheless I got in a lot of other … Continue reading →

For the last few months I have noticed that the food I prepare has tasted strange. This was particularly evident in a pig’s foot terrine that I cooked last weekend. Each time I tasted it during the very long simmering … Continue reading →

One of the first things I bought when I came to Okinawa, getting on for 9 years ago, was a rice cooker. https://thequietripple.com/2011/02/19/in-which-he-buys-a-rice-cooker/ She has served me very well but has become very shabby. The top has rusted badly and … Continue reading →

Mummy died. We all got together to mark the finality of it all. There was never a better woman. We, my sister and brothers with partners met the day before the cremation to decorate the coffin with hundreds of photos … Continue reading →

I become aware of a grinding noise coming from the back of my X trail. It does not take me long to work out that it is coming from the passenger side rear disc brake. I stick my finger in … Continue reading →

One of the most pleasant activities during my stay in England was sitting around in brother Alan’s kitchen reading newspapers, something I never do here, and drinking lots of Lapsang Souchong tea. Cannot hope to read Japanese newspapers but I … Continue reading →

Poor Mummy; nonetheless the trip to England allowed me to catch up with family and friends. First to Rosy and Barry’s house, which is beautiful and at its best in very hot Summer weather. Then up to London to Ian … Continue reading →

So my Mummy died last week.  I am very sad.  I knew she was about to die and so rushed back to England. As I was getting into the car to head for the airport, my brother phoned to say … Continue reading →

I stayed up very late on Sunday. First dinner with Mary and Tim. Tim cooked Paella. He really is an excellent cook. I drove there intending to leave the car and walk home. You do not drink and drive in … Continue reading →

Today I find in my mailbox, a light pink envelope with drawings of happy families on it. I believe it is my annual health insurance contribution demand. I love the way the Japanese administration communicates. Nearly all official correspondence is … Continue reading →