Irish Wish - romantic comedy

After all the Easter guests left, we decided to watch a movie. It is interesting how our opinions on it were so different.

Hibachi - original Japanese meaning vs American adaptation

 We went with my cousin, Igor, family to a hibachi restaurant. It was a great fun for both kids as well as adults.

As an anthropology nerd I wanted to explain original meaning of hibachi.

Q: What is a historical Japanese hibachi?

A: The term “hibachi” historically refers to a traditional Japanese heating device, consisting of a heatproof container made of wood or ceramic, lined with metal, and used to hold burning charcoal. It was primarily utilized for heating and cooking food. Over time, in some contexts, “hibachi” came to be associated with a style of Japanese grilling, but originally, it was a portable heater that could be used for simple cooking tasks.

Q: What is an American hibachi restaurant?

A: In the American context, “hibachi” restaurants are often referred to as Japanese steakhouses that feature a style of cooking known as teppanyaki. Here, chefs prepare meals on a large, flat iron griddle known as a teppan. The experience is interactive and theatrical, with chefs performing cooking tricks, such as flipping utensils, tossing food items, and creating flames on the grill. These restaurants focus on entertainment and the visual spectacle of cooking, which is a significant departure from the traditional Japanese hibachi concept.

Q: How do the cooking methods differ between traditional Japanese hibachi and American hibachi restaurants?

A: Traditional Japanese hibachi cooking involves direct grilling over charcoal in a small, portable brazier, emphasizing simplicity and the natural flavors of the food. It’s a more intimate and subdued form of cooking, typically done at home or in specialized establishments focusing on the culinary craft itself. In contrast, American hibachi restaurants (teppanyaki) involve cooking on a large iron griddle, with an emphasis on entertainment, showmanship, and interaction between the chef and guests. The American version focuses more on the experience than the subtlety of the flavors.

For further details on traditional Japanese cuisine and its adaptations, especially in the context of hibachi and teppanyaki, refer to culinary history texts and cultural studies resources, such as “Japanese Cooking: A Simple Art” by Shizuo Tsuji.

Tarkine

 

Wulkie

 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLc5WdboIheJnIwyZYdtPpyUMVr3WzGZS5&si=rFKPH9cWq4k0K7xI

Teardrop

 

XylaCLC

https://bit.ly/XylaCLC

https://www.cwb.org/

Xyla Foxlin is an American engineer, entrepreneur, and YouTuber known for her tutorial videos on technical projects. Graduating from Case Western Reserve University in 2019 with a B.S.E. in General Engineering focusing on Mechatronics and Creative Technology, she also served as the Executive Director for the non-profit Beauty and the Bolt, aiming to lower entry barriers for women and minorities in STEM fields. Foxlin’s YouTube channel features projects requiring woodworking and engineering skills .

Lake 22

Goat Island Skiff

 https://www.storerboatplans.com/boatplans/goat-island-skiff-simple-sailing-boat-excellent-performance-lightweight/

The Goat Island Skiff (GIS) is celebrated for its simplicity in construction and sailing, alongside impressive performance capabilities. Designed by Michael Storer in 1993, this sailboat is known for being lightweight, easy to handle, and capable of accommodating up to four adults while maintaining excellent stability and speed. It’s particularly noted for its performance in various sailing conditions, capable of rowing effectively, and even handling a small outboard motor. The GIS features a hull weight of approximately 130 pounds, making it lighter than many racing dinghies, such as the 14ft Laser, and thus easily transportable.

The construction of the GIS emphasizes simplicity with a reduced number of parts and the use of plywood, aiming for a balance between lightness and structural integrity. The design incorporates a 105 square feet sail, optimized for efficiency and control. Its dimensions are 15’ 6” in length and 5ft in beam, with a shallow draft of 4 inches, enabling the skiff to navigate in varied water conditions.

A key aspect of the GIS is its balanced design, with minimal rocker and a hull that distributes volume evenly from bow to stern. This results in a boat that maintains course well when heeled and responds effectively to helm inputs, even at extreme angles. The design’s focus on light weight, combined with a rig that minimizes complexity and cost, has made the GIS popular among amateur builders and seasoned sailors alike.

Plans and kits for the Goat Island Skiff are available internationally, catering to DIY builders and enthusiasts who seek a blend of traditional and modern sailing experiences. The active GIS community, particularly on social media platforms, offers support and inspiration for those building or sailing their own skiff   .

The Spray: Building and Sailing a Replica of Joshua Slocum’s Famous Vessel” by R.D. Culler

 

“The Spray: Building and Sailing a Replica of Joshua Slocum’s Famous Vessel” by R.D. Culler is a detailed account of the author’s experience constructing and utilizing a replica of Slocum’s celebrated craft, the Spray. Culler shares insights that would interest and assist those contemplating building and sailing a Spray, drawing from his extensive knowledge of traditional wooden boat building methods using wood, iron, and canvas .

ASA 101

I decided to re-take this class as it has been few years since I sailed s keelboat (not a day sailer dinghy). In addition, I wanted to practice in PNW that adds additional difficulties to sailing Great Lakes.

 

Gut microbiom

Our gut microbiom might one of the most important precursors of our good health. 

Our digestion and ability to extract microelements from food, the ability to digest food without excessive gas, or consipation, all depend on our gut microbiom.

I also believe, and many scientific studies confirm it, that our ability to maintain healthy weight depends on our gut microbiom.

It takes a very long time to develop healthy microbiom, takes a week of anibiotics to kill.

As an extreme example, Japanese have guy bacteria to help digest sea weed, this might be true for almost any ethnic food. The lack of specific bacteria may result in malnutrition or digestive issues.

For the same reason I am not a proponent of elimination diet. Yes, sometimes you have to take out your favorite food such as pizza, or undercooked mushrooms, to feel better, but I believe people are going too far and hurt themselves.

Eliminating food may eliminate microbes that help process them and in the result you are able to eat less and less variety of foods.

For myself, I beleive that avoiding anitbiotics unless absolutely necessary is the first step.

Eating a variety of different foods is another step to introduce variety. This steps goes with a little relaxation of sterility of food preparation. I am fully aware that some microbes can put you in hospital, but I also think we go overboard with antibiotic cleansers, too.

I personally, try to avoid any ultra-processed foods.

I try to add variety of ethnic foods.

I already wrote about A2 milk products and kefir.

I removed any, absolutely any, comertial seed oils from my diet.

I removed any simple sugars from my diet such as fructose, glucose, etc.

Despite the fact that I love them, I limit mushrooms in my food, because I know my body does not tolerate them well, same thing for any molds.

I am considering limiting coffee, too.

   

Mount Si

Mount Si (pronounced Sai) is definitely one of the most recognizable landmarks in the region. It is towering over the town of North Bend and it is simply breathtaking in its beauty. 

47°30'21.0"N 121°44'21.7"W

As a whole family, we have previously climbed the Little Mount Si, a smaller peak in the range, which is equally picturesque, but it is trully a baby next to the parent, the Mount Si.

Today, since Natalia was travelling to Las Vegas and girls did not want to go hiking and stayed home with Bunica, I went by myself. 

I have been strugglining with health problems, whether it is pollen allergy, since the cherry trees and other bushes are in the full bloom, or some other chemical reaction, my face have been burning and bags around my eyes make me look as if I was 20 years older. 

I decided that instead staying at home and feeling sorry, I will challenge myself to sweat and breath some fresh evergreen mountain air.

The trail was very busy, but when hiking alone I like saying “hello” to passing people. I also like hiking alone when I listen to a good audio book, and the book today was excellent. See my previous post on the current book.

The hike was challenging and I came back very tired, but feeling good. There is no way we would have made it with kids in a quick few hours.

I feel so happy to live right under (takes me 30 minutes to drive to) such a beautiful mountain range.    

 

Across Islands and Oceans by James Baldwin

"Prisons come at various shapes and forms, most of them filled to the brink by the self-commited" James Baldwin

My new on the go, cafe writing setup

I promised myself that I would start writing a lot again. 

Counting on having laptop with me every time is not feasible, even carrying a tablet (iPad or Kindle Scribe) is hard. 

One thing I always have is my phone, so I came up with this Bluetooth keyboard solution for the back pocket of my jeans, and it works great.

The keyboard is sufficiently similar to my Mac keyboard and the setup is small enough to carry everywhere.

Buy on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Uf8vcX

Samsers Foldable Bluetooth Keyboard:

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Uki's Amazon store items.

Sushi by Bunica

 

 

Having Bunica (my mother-in-law Zina) staying with us is wonderful. 

She is willing to experiment with any dish that kids, or I, ask for, and she usually quickly gets it done perfectly. In addition to Moldovan cuisine, she spent about 10 years in Italy, so fasting is not an option. Bunica learned to cook Polish food, Hispanic specials and now she got Japanese buns and sushi just right. Do not let me start about bread and pastry baking. 

Bravo! 

Lahakai

 

Build Trap by Melissa Perri

 

Electric

 Electric pod motor

Where is Kiana?

I came across the YouTube channel and blog of Kiana, a beautiful young lady sailing an old catamaran across the Atlantic Ocean. 

Often, we procrastinate because we cannot afford the fancy boat we dream of, but the adventure awaits us on a simple, inexpensive boat we can afford now.

https://whereskiana.com/

 

Bound for Distant Seas by James Baldwin

 I am listening to the book "Bound for Distant Seas - A Voyage Alone to Asia Aboard the 28-Foot Sailboat Atom" by James Baldwin

"Bound for Distant Seas" is a maritime adventure memoir by James Baldwin, detailing his solo circumnavigation of the globe aboard his small sailboat, Atom. Baldwin shares his experiences from preparation to completion, including challenges at sea, the solitude of long passages, the cultures he encounters at various landfalls, and the deep personal insights gained through the journey. The narrative goes beyond mere adventure, delving into Baldwin's philosophy on life, self-reliance, and the pursuit of dreams against daunting odds.

Q: Who is James Baldwin in the context of sailing?

A: James Baldwin is a renowned sailor and author in the sailing community, known for his extensive solo voyages and contributions to sailing literature. Baldwin is particularly celebrated for his ability to undertake long-distance sailing adventures on a modest budget, demonstrating that such feats are accessible to individuals willing to embrace simplicity and the challenges of the sea. His works, including "Bound for Distant Seas," inspire and inform both seasoned sailors and those dreaming of casting off the dock lines for distant horizons.

Q: What can readers learn from "Bound for Distant Seas"?

A: Readers can learn a multitude of lessons from "Bound for Distant Seas," ranging from practical sailing techniques and preparations for extended voyages to deeper philosophical reflections on life's purpose and the value of pursuing one's dreams. Baldwin's narrative encapsulates the essence of adventure, the resilience required to overcome adversities at sea, and the transformative power of solitude and self-discovery. Additionally, the book serves as a guide and inspiration for those yearning to explore the world by sail, emphasizing the attainability of such ambitions with determination and resourcefulness.

Q: How does "Bound for Distant Seas" contribute to the genre of adventure and sailing literature?

A: "Bound for Distant Seas" is a significant contribution to the genre of adventure and sailing literature, offering a unique blend of thrilling sea voyages, insightful personal reflections, and practical sailing wisdom. Baldwin's articulate narration and deep connection with the sea enrich the reader's understanding of the complexities and rewards of solo sailing. His story adds a valuable perspective to the body of maritime literature, highlighting the indomitable spirit of human adventure and the profound lessons learned in the pursuit of one's passions on the open ocean.

Cherry blossoms and a black bear while riding a motorcycle

March 20, 2024
Yesterday was the last of several sunny days, and since I did not ride my new motorcycle much, I decided to go for a sunset cruise in the region's forested canyons.
Unlike riding offroad, for which my knobby 250cc is designed, cruising streets is quite a bad experience. The bike shakes and vibrates at speeds up to 30 mph, and I did not even attempt anything above 40. 

It is definitely not Tenere or BMW, but I have spent under 2,000 and not $12,000.

On the motorcycle ride, I went to Snoqualmie Falls and stopped by several spots by the river.

In The Fall City, there are rows of cherry trees by the river, and I was glad I went, as in a few days, I would have missed them. It was beautiful.

47°32'43.7"N 121°50'28.3"W


On the way back, after sunset, I saw a large black bear in the middle of the road. I had to slow down and rev my engine for the bear to finally disappear into the forest. What is fantastic is that it was just a short mile from my kid's school.

47°34'15.6"N 121°58'58.8"W

Active retirement plans

Either because of the stress or because of some unknown to me heart condition, I have felt stinging in my heart for the last few days. I think it is just stress because otherwise, I have been recently extreme double-diamond skiing and hiking mountains without issues. 

Nevertheless, I have been contemplating the possibility of kicking the bucket early and whether I will be able to live long enough to enjoy an active retirement. I will be approaching the retirement age in a decade when kids reach college age.

It is an ongoing inside joke with Natalia that I have a thousand and one plans for retirement. 

It is true, I have considered many options including a few locations abroad. 

One of the obvious locations would be right on my ancestral land in mountains of Poland I wanted to build a small log cabin not unlike the one on Maciejowa mountain nearby. Living in what we call “bacøwka” was always my dream. The place is biking distance (Kajtek did it) from Krakøw, a center of Poland’s culture which is very important. The problems with Poland are multiple; Natalia and kids do not speak the language and would feel out of place there, especialy that country life can be rough around the edges. 

Another place, which actually will never happen is Madeira island. I would love to visit Madeira for months at the time. I was joking that if I ever disappear without any sign, I probaby will rent a room in the red terrracota roofed house, eat the best sea and steak food in the world in the nearby restaurant, write books and hike “levadas”.

The third obvious place would be “Up North” in Hudson, Charlevoix county, Michigan. The place is surrounded by the rolling hills covered by maple trees that delight in the fall. The hearby Great Lakes sailing and the wine country are a bonus. Michigan has hundreds of state parks with geat RV parking facilities surrounded by woods and beautiful lakes.

Life in Michigan after the fall deer hunting season is not very romantic, so some warmer location would have to be included.

Finally, living in PNW would be most wonderful with sea and mountains surrounding us, if we can afford buying a place here. Even if we bounght today, there is no way to pay it off by the time we retire. Having morgage while retired would be a financial risk.

As far as what I want to do when I retire is very simple and it does never change, I want to stay active as long as I can, hike mountains, sail, scuba dive and write books.

I think we have an agreement with Natalia that we do not like big stinky cities. We both like culture and I tollerate small cute towns, in fact, even now, instead of being at home, I am sitting in a cafe in Isaquah Highlands, one of my favorite towns in America.