Author: devapnek

In an attempt to slow life's quickening pace, I'm writing to share my personal perspective on the aging process, its dilemmas, the humorous self-deception, the insights and the adventure of it all. I spent the bulk of my time in beautiful Santa Barbara, CA, but manage to get to NYC several times a year. I've been a dancer/dance teacher and dance supporter almost all my life. For the past 9 years, I help create and produce a month-long creative residency in Santa Barbara for contemporary American choreographers and their dancers. It's been incredibly gratifying. I also now spend several weeks a year in Kyoto Japan. I've been magnetically attracted to Japan for many years. Now I live out a dream to live there part-time.

Things My Mother Taught Me

It's impossible to overstate the role that ceramics plays in daily life in Japan. It's equally impossible to deny my obsession with it. Another impossibility is to give a comprehensive overview  of the role ceramics plays in Japanese history and culture. There are books and experts on this subject.  I consider my self an admirer. … Continue reading Things My Mother Taught Me →

Making Myself Proud

  Judging by the pride I felt, you might have thought I'd just recited the US Constitution by heart in five different languages.  As it was, I spoke one short sentence in Japanese to a woman who works in our apartment building in Kyoto. I'd been practicing the phrase for weeks.  I wanted to be … Continue reading Making Myself Proud →

There’s Still Time

I wanted to love it, and I occasionally did almost enjoy it.  It had its moments.  Just not enough of them.  It was a blockbuster digital art show presented by the Mori Art Museum called Tokyo Lab Boundless.  It is state of the art of digital technology.  Tickets were scarce, but I got one.  I waited … Continue reading There’s Still Time →

Opening to a Different World

My pores are opening to my new world.  I'm a little like a bi-valve when I fly.  Part of me shuts down/closes and waits patiently to arrive on another shore.  If there are periods of turbulence, I shut myself off even more. My flight to Japan was truly fine, considering the distance traveled.  I did … Continue reading Opening to a Different World →

Am I Waku Waku or Doki Doki?

Waku waku (suru)!  I recently learned, means I am excited.  Or shall I say doki doki (suru),  meaning I'm excited and nervous at the same time?  Either way, I'm off to Japan again in two more days.  My excitement is always a given, my nervousness is a result of being by myself for about two … Continue reading Am I Waku Waku or Doki Doki? →