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Goodwill Withdrawals

Besides visiting my family and friends, one of the things I miss the most about the United States is going to Goodwills. I have found interesting clothing, music, and miscellaneous items at various Goodwills throughout the US. Visiting Goodwill helped me cope with stress and sadness by allowing me to escape and avoid overthinking. I would leisurely stroll around and look at items without feeling obligated to make any purchases. Occasionally, I would chat with other collectors, re-sellers, and the occasional homeless person. There are numerous secondhand stores in Japan, but none can rival Goodwill. My shopping behavior has always revolved around discovering and collecting things that stimulate my creativity, rather than satisfying a materialistic urge. From clothes to ceramics, books to picture frames, each of these objects has served its purpose in my life. My past finds from Goodwill tell a story and remind me of my mindset during that period. They evoke memories of my past, the people I used to hang out with, and my overall well-being at that time. Maybe I’ll find some stores here in Japan that echo the same feeling I get while at Goodwill. If not, I’m sure I’ll get by.

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Tekkonkinkreet (Taiyō Matsumoto ) Sighting

I noticed a mom and her son standing at JR Zeze station and saw her fantastic Tekkonkinkreet t-shirt, featuring a great front print of Shiro and Kuro. The t shirts are being sold online at excessively inflated prices. We had a brief conversation about various mangas created by Taiyo Matsumoto but our communication was limited by language barriers. We were all wearing smiles nonetheless. Despite language barriers, it's amazing how shared interests can unite people who are strangers. 

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Fit report close to Shijo station in Kyoto. The floral pattern on his pants drew my attention - it complemented his Mary t-shirt perfectly! I'm almost positive he's wearing Half cab shoes (The shoe I loved most when I was a kid skating). 

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Kyoto Style - May 25

Upon arriving in Japan, I understood that in order to communicate with those around me, I would need to learn essential Japanese words and phrases. I have acquired essential phrases and basic conversational skills to manage ordering food, asking for directions, etc.

I aim to enroll in a course to continue enhancing my Japanese proficiency in order to better connect with my community. I've been approaching individuals on the streets to take their portraits and the response has been fantastic! Excited to capture more images around Japan.

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Kyoto Style - May 2024