The Internal Tug O’ War

It's interesting how who we wish we were and who we really are end up being two completely different ideals. I suppose to fantasize about who we want to be allows us, in some small measure, to mentally live out our lives the way we felt it should go. Funny thing, isn't it?? Standing firm …

Kichijoji

As much as it pains me to admit - seriously, I'm in agony recognizing this - I have spent 2/3 of my damn life in retail. It has been a twisted, painstaking, humiliating, exhausting and belittling ride. However, as is all life, there is balance. There have been more than fleeting moments of genuine human …

The Human Condition

It’s natural, I’ve learned, to lean on the familiar when you are surround by the unfamiliar. It’s our comfort zone, our safe spot, if you will. Every morning I walk myself through the tiny, crowded streets of Shimbashi overwhelmed with an array of shops, bars and eateries. In all there is to entertain, my oh-so-American …

Independence

This is an incredible journey of life firsts. First trip abroad. First time in the customs cattle line. First time on a subway. First time to be amongst people who can’t understand a word I am saying - well that’s sort of a loose “first”. I did live in LA. First solo dining experience in …

The Commute

It’s amazing how much pressure we can place on ourselves to make sure each moment in our lives is “just right”. That everything you want to accomplish, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is fought for  just so we can say we did it. As I sit in my lonely seat on the shuttle …

It’s Around Here Somewhere

Ok. I landed about 3.5 hours ago and I've been rolling around the tiny roadways of Shinbashi for about an hour with my luggage - I try to be discreet - in sweltering heat trying to find my hotel they SWEAR was right next to the train station. I should be grateful. At least I …

Take Off…I Hope.

Isn't traveling meant to be fun?

So…This is Happening Then, I Guess.

Consider this a journal of my experiences connected to the career that chose me - retail. Yes. I work in retail. Yes. I'm an adult. Don't be so shocked. I went to public school.