Chie

Hello Philly!

February 25, 2013 By Chie

Over the weekend, we took a quick trip to Philadelphia. That is the city where Andy and I met. I lived there for a total of five years for school and work. It was nice to be back and see friends! We met friends that we haven’t met for years. Also this was our belated Valentine’s day celebration, so we stayed in a hotel in center city, named Sofitel. I remember passing by the Sofitel when we were first married and still living in Philly. I always looked enviously and thought it would be nice to stay there. So Andy was kind enough to take me there. It was great. Big room, beautiful tub and nice art work.

We spent both nights in Philly seeing old friends. It was great to see everyone. I was thrilled to have the chance to meet so many people. I was thrilled that I still gelled with all of the people I use to know. It is always intimidating to see people again for the first time in years. Do you all feel that way?

Another highlight was eating at a restaurant named Parc. Like the Sofitel I would often pass by this spot and wish I could pop in. So, Andy took me there as well. Oddly, the price wasn’t bad. I don’t know why I never thought to eat there years ago. I could have afforded it even when I was young and broke.

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DIY Lace Insert T-shirt

February 23, 2013 By Chie

Growing up, I was never a t-shirt and jeans kind of girl. I always preferred dresses, cardigans and sweaters. There are times when I would not have a single t-shirt in my closet, save the smelly ones i use for my workout. But after having Kiko, I am tending toward having more and more comfy clothes that are easy to clean. But the girly part of me can’t stand turning t-shirts into a regular part of my wardrobe. But i did find this little way to bring up the acceptableness (real word?) of the comfy top. I love this little DIY lace insert to personalize any t-shirt you have.

I bought this Minnie t-shirt at 390 mart (everything in the store is 390 yen(about 4 bucks)! ). Although the t-shirt was perfectly acceptable as a workout wear, it lacked some femininity and breath-ability since the neckline was a bit too tight. I widen the front neckline and added a back lace insert. Here is how:

I wore the t-shirt in front of the mirror and marked the new neckline with a tailor’s chalk.

This is where you can be creative! I just did a deep U-line shape, but it could be V, star, heart, etc. Tada!

If you want, you can fold up the sleeves and sew the top and bottom edges to change things up a bit!

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NY Trip Photo Diary

February 20, 2013 By Chie

Photo diary of our NY trip so far – We’ve been spending a lot of time with family and extended family. Kiko got to meet with her grandparents and great grand mother for the first time. Andy and I have been spending more time (and money) at Target than necessary. Had lunch at a restaurant in Hoboken, and signed up for a short-term membership at Gold’s Gym. Gold’s Gym provides child care while you work out, which is wonderful! I have never seen such a service in Japan. We are going to Philly this weekend. This trip has been going so fast!