Pete the Shoemaker

I used to suffer from stress a fair bit. I decided to cut down on work and start living for myself more than I was. I may not have the big business I dreamed of when I was a bit younger, but I'm happy with it.

Another vote for quality stuff please, none of the cheap and nasty for me.

I'm only jealous Then again maybe not I think a monster like that would scare me!

I have heard of all the scams going on here with telephone calls and the like, but yesterday was the first time that I have seen one in action. My lady friend (Japanese) got a hagaki/postcard that basically said she was being sued and needed to go to court. I was in on my own when it came so I spent a while trying to understand it and all sorts of thoughts were going through my head... what have we done?! I got quite worried before I got a hold on myself and decided that it might not be real. It looked legit with an official governmental-sounding name and phone number. Anyway I de

Might take you a while to actually get it, long waiting lists probably. Good luck though.

The code for that one would be just: kHmvkRoEowc

It's probably "just" the Japanese way of saying these things. If indeed she is Japanese.

I really like that second picture. I am planning on trying it out next winter.

I would be Mr Tickle.

And I intend to take my own advice next season.

There are bad people in every occupation.

Morning Musume. Such a strange creating. I wonder how much those girls get paid and what % of the MM turnover that represents? My kids enjoyed the bukatsu at school. I am very wary of letting them stay there too late. Some of the clubs do way too much in my opinion. Luckily it seems to have worked out ok. It's a good time for the kids to all have fun together out of class.

Abysmal isn't it. I wonder if anyone actually likes it. I think we should come up with some designs, and submit them. Tell them we will do it for 99,999 pounds. Less than a quarter of the cost.

I live & work in Osaka.

As with many people not the best season - mix of work (I seemed busier than normal and more tired as well, getting older!) and of course the season not being what we are used to.

I've had the D80 for 6 months or so now. Great camera, very pleased I got it. Considered the D200 but for me I didn't see it as much more (for what I need) and I liked the lighter 80. I've got one of the cabinets - present from a photographer friend. The camera and lenses all look happy and snug in there.

I think they are both great places. And both quite different from each other. Best solution - go to both!

I've been to Niseko twice now. The first time was about 10 years ago. The second time was this last season. Wow. How that place has changed, and still is by the looks. Loved it then and still loved it (though I wish there were a few less people!)

It took 11 months for mine to come through, this is a few years ago now. They were calling up our home number to talk with my wife and all. I wasn't in a rush so it wasn't annoying, but it seems strange that it takes so long.

I've been skiing for a fair few years, something like 25 I reckon. Not "expert" though, just enjoy it.