Hiroo, From Tokyo!!: Life is Genki in Gingko Time!

Title Translation = Life is Fine (or Happy) in Gingko Time!

November in Tokyo is the season for viewing the brilliant golden gingko trees that adorn parks and line some of the long beautiful avenues of the city.

During the great fire after the earthquake in Tokyo in 1923 many Ginkgo trees survived while other trees died. A temple was saved because of the many Ginkgos that surrounded it. The bark and leaves are thought to secrete a sap that acts as a fire retardant. This, along with the water-retentive nature of the tree, is why the Gingko is seen planted in parks and around important buildings in the metropolitan area.

The avenue leading to the National Diet Building, home to Tokyo's House of Representatives and House of Councillors.
(The word diet derives from Latin and was the common name for an assembly in medieval Germany.)

The Gingko is Tokyo's official city tree, and the gingko leaf logo can be seen throughout the city.

Gingko Avenue (Ichou Namiki), is the popular gingko-lined avenue leading to Meiji Jingu Gaien gardens. The trees lining both sides of the avenue are unique with their pruned fashion and pointed shape.

At Meiji Jingu Gaein Gardens, you can walk over a carpet of brilliant yellow leaves while the pleasant autumn breezes send more fluttering down in spiraling dances above and around you. Bring your camera!!!

In late November, Icho Namiki draws crowds of people to Meiji Jingu Gaien Gardens to stroll under the leaves or relax at one of the sidewalk cafes along the street.

Aerial view of the 175-acre park surrounding the Meiji Jingu Shrine, sacred home of the remains of Emperor Meiji.

Enormous torii at the entrance to Meiji Shrine

Central sanctuary where the emperor is enshrined

Next, a friend's November birthday meant I ventured out to try Nobu in Toranomon and was not disappointed. This one merits a return visit!! I even loved the front door!

Bento boxes with Spanish mackerel, pork ribs and asparagus, soft shell crab, tuna sashimi, egg, pickled veggies, and California rolls....YUM!!

Nobu chefs hard at work just as the restaurant is opening for the noon rush.

The gorgeous backlit glass and bamboo bar at Nobu.

Birthday celebrations are extra special at Nobu!!

On the family side, the autumn season saw Jane Ellis being honored during half-time at one of our high school football games.
The school slogan she created won first place and was made into the t-shirt sold for Spirit Wear!

Half-time show recognition by the President of the Booster Club

The Mustang's winning slogan!

November also meant the end of Grant's remarkable season playing JV football.

He was praised in speeches given by his teammates and then his coaches for his fearlessness on the field, as well as his ability to lead and motivate the rest of his team.

The Mustangs had an undefeated season and Grant was named Outstanding Defensive Player!!!

And then....a November party with a view! This time we were at the private Roppongi Hills Club on the 51st floor of the Mori Tower celebrating George's birthday!