Author Archives: Lynda Philippsen

Abbotsford Rescinds Offensiveness Policy idea

At the next council meeting the motion was withdrawn. Continue reading

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Note to Self: Grab a Pillow

The voice inside our heads that tells us that we’re not doing everything well—you know, you should put a pillow over that voice and suffocate it. –E. Renzetti Continue reading

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Abbotsford’s proposed offensiveness policy is silly

Drafting a formal policy to block the use of city facilities for everything that could be considered “offensive” is dangerous. Where does it stop? As you state, there are numerous sports, musical acts, art works or books which might be considered “offensive” by some segments of society. Vetting them all is pointless. Continue reading

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A Lady at a Bridge in Uji

My state of mind mirrors the river. Like the Tale of Genji’s Uji Chapters–gloomy narratives, bridge chapters, dark mood states, and characters weary of this world–it’s one of those days where much goes wrong on the journey. Continue reading

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Special thanks

Getting to know passionate and top-quality people through contract work has been an unanticipated bonus in my writing life. Continue reading

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I find no love for the kotatsu

I admit that I do not understand and cannot share the Japanese love-affair with the kotatsu. Continue reading

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All I wanted was directions

It suddenly occurs to me that he is not only a traffic cop, but also a member of the self-appointed diction police. He is correcting my pronunciation. I’m mangling the name of the temple—two long o vowels, not short. Continue reading

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Lighting up the night

I love the way light—even one candle—changes everything about darkness. Continue reading

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Second Sake-rice Harvest in Abbotsford

Artisan Sake Maker Masa Shiroki brings in the sake rice harvest 2012, Continue reading

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Toronama Donuts

We eat all day. I start with a big breakfast as I know we’ll be driving about, and I travel better on full stomach. After visits to various people, suddenly it’s time for lunch–a large bowl of noodles and vegetables … Continue reading

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