Tag Archives: ExPat

Uhh- What the Hell is That?

“What the HELL is that?” I ask that question at least once a day. Politely. Yesterday it occurred when Andretti-san and I encountered these: Andretti-san  – “Eat it.” Not unless my other choice is being forced to watch the movie … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 41 Comments

Cherry Blossom Viewing- A “How To” Guide for the Novice

I`ve been remiss as a blogger covering Japan given my lack of attention to “Hanami”- loosely translated as “viewing of cherry blossoms.” I`ve felt a hesitation to do so given the ubiquitous coverage and adoration piled upon the petaled pink … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 38 Comments

A Stroll Through The Cemetery During Sakura Season

I am possessed by a morbid fascination with cemeteries. I`ve pin pointed its genesis to the stories told at my Grandfather`s supper table about the flooding of Elba, a small town in south Alabama. He sat on the roof of … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 23 Comments

Getting Genki with Geisha Clampitt Style

A mini bus commandeered by Andretti-san and packed with invading Clampitts from Oregon squirmed ominously awaiting our departure toward downtown Kyoto as I faced the motley crowd to pose this thought-provoking question- “Geisha- who are these masked white beauties of … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | 38 Comments

Snow Monsters- They`re Real. Zao, Japan.

Every now and again, I claim my maternal right to say the following words, “I want to go, so you`re all going.” Spouse is usually more than happy to comply whereas the Offspring will catapult feeble arguments in retaliation to … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 35 Comments

Snow Monkeys- Karmic Cuteness

While the rest of the world celebrates the Year of the Dragon, the Clampitt clan has been in a parallel universe celebrating the Year of the Monkey. Primates, those in addition to the hairless version in my family, have participated … Continue reading

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 45 Comments

You Can`t Judge A Book By Its Cover- the Kimono

The kimono. Long thought by Western cultures to be an elegant robe, loosely wrapped and cinched with an elaborate belt allowing Japanese men and women to conduct the business of daily living devoid of the discomforts associated with ties and … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 63 Comments

What Not to Do While Visiting an Onsen

Several years ago I left my persona as a corporate climber and established myself as a trophy wife. That pesky full length mirror in our shower insists, however, that I am in fact a consolation prize won for participation only. … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 30 Comments

Coming of Age in Japan- Seijin no Hi

I don`t recall the details of my coming of age other than it was welcomed in an intoxicated stupor. Here I remained for several years following just to ensure I was acting like an adult, or the ones in my … Continue reading

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Posted in Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 31 Comments

Ringing in the Year of the Dragon- Japanese Style

The Year of the Dragon roared in to Japan hailed by a 7.0 earthquake. Somebody`s a drama queen. In spite of that auspicious entry, I think I speak for all Japan residents when I say we are happy to see … Continue reading

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Posted in Culture Lessons, Moving to Japan | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 38 Comments