[okazu]

99 Asian Market, Burlington VT

October 10th, 2009 by Naomi

242 North Winooski Avenue (05401)

This store is clean, colourful, and friendly. There’s a pretty decent variety as far as fresh produce goes, but not a ton in the convenience and snack food area (which is always what I’m most interested in). I also noticed a good selection of seasoning and sauces. They offer fresh Vietnamese food to go, and shipment comes out of Boston two times a week; their bakery products are from Yi Soon Bakery in Allston.

My prizes: a can of chrysanthemum tea, a package of rice crackers (one of my favourite snacks while I was in China), and a coconut and sweet butter bun from Yi Soon Bakery. $5.49 total.

Sorry about that bit of fog or whatever. It’s a bit cold outside today.

I get the feeling that stock changes pretty frequently, so I plan on making it more of a habit to visit. They’re literally a ten minute stroll up the street.

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Hello Kitty Turns 35

October 10th, 2009 by Naomi

This is important and Sanrio knows it. To celebrate Miss Kitty’s 35th, they’re throwing a party the likes of which has never been seen.

Three Apples is a multi-dimensional exhibition and celebration of all things Hello Kitty; the first ever event of its kind in the US! The celebration takes place over a three-week residence at the Royal/T café / shop / art space in Culver City, CA. Three Apples is open to the public, free of charge and will feature an art exhibition, unique product and design displays, pop-up shop, and special events for fans of all ages – all celebrating Hello Kitty!

Sometimes I wish I lived on the west coast. Ho hum. I do, however, vow to do my best to bring the party to Vermont via okazu. Happy birthday, Hello Kitty!

Read all about the month long celebration here.

Also visit the official 35th Anniversary website, here (primarily Japanese). There are a couple special birthday videos on YouTube here (”Hello Kitty 35th Anniversary Colors”) and here (”Hello Kitty 35th Anniversary Design History”). I find the design history particularly wonderful.

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Office Nook

October 3rd, 2009 by Naomi

This tiny corner, my dear friends, is where the Okazu magic happens.

How many Japanese candy packages can you spot?

Eventually all my research and Chinese text books will have a home of their own, like, oh I don’t know, a shelf or something. Right now they’re all scattered throughout the house. It’s frustrating, what with my tendency to alphabetize and colour code everything I own.

That’s all for today. I’ve got a couple works in progress for posting next week. T minus two hours until my birthday party. I’m still 24 until Monday.