Beagle Judo Japan Champ

Beagle Judo Japan Champ, originally uploaded by Joli Knott.

Presenting the Beagle Featherweight Title holder, Chige-chan!

Carp Streamers for Children's Day, May 2007

Carp Streamers for Children's Day, May 2007, originally uploaded by Joli Knott.

These carp streamers are flying over the river near our beach-house in Shimoda. They are set up every year just before the start of Golden Week. Here's a short description of their symbolic significance:

These are flown in Japan on May 5 (Children's day holiday).

Japanese carp streamers were developed mid 18th century in Edo era to celebrate birth of son. The design was inspired by a Chinese legend that a strong carp can become a dragon if it goes up a waterfall. Parents wished their son would become a strong man like a carp going up falls.
Nozomi Kariyasu, 4 September 2000

(taken from this website)

Pepper On Her Perch

Pepper On Her Perch, originally uploaded by Joli Knott.

One of Pepper's favorite places to nap in ON TOP of the couch--just like a cat! Guess she likes the height-factor....