I returned to the scene of the scolding. This time I’m talking about the Japanese dollar store because yes, I’ve been reprimanded a few times for snapping photos during the course of this blog. (I think those people need to eat an ice-cream cone with sprinkles, or something.)

Anyway, I bloggered-up and faced the back of the girl who scolded me, as she went to get on her broom or stick needles into cushioned dolls. She could have also been getting inventory from the stockroom, I’m not certain.

So, my finds. This bowl? I think it says it all.

Continue reading »

Yes, another post about the Japanese dollar store. And possibly my last one. About the store, that is. See, during my last visit there a few days ago, when I was standing in a quiet corner taking photos, a shrill voice rang out with, “You can’t take pictures in here!”

Oh boy, not this again. I knew I needed to work on my ninja photo-taking skills. Or lack thereof.

But I’m not bitter about no longer being able to take photos there. Except when I think about it.

Anyhoo, I went to the store in search of stocking stuffers of the non-food variety and found some things I wanted to stuff my stocking with.

Like this, which totally brings me back to being a child of the ’80s. Whatcha think—is a 20-something too old to rock this heart bracelet?

Continue reading »

One thing I look forward to the most about visiting another city is experiencing things that are unavailable in my own. In Portland, food carts spanning some city blocks was one of those things.

Continue reading »

We made it to Ken’s Artisan Bakery in the Alphabet District at 11 AM on a Sunday, and found it packed. Not a single table inside the bakery was available.

Understandable, when it has these kinds of offerings.

Continue reading »