Category: Natsuko’s Blog

Posted on

Living on the Edge: A Firsthand Look at Minimum Wage Struggles in America

Nearly 38 million Americans suffer from Poverty in the United States. You will only understand what it is to be in it if you have lived in poverty. So, an American journalist, Barbara Ehrenreich, embarks on a unique investigative journey to experience the realities of living on a minimum wage in America. This insightful exploration, derived from her firsthand experiences working in various low-wage jobs across multiple states, sheds light on the daily struggles of millions of Americans.

Ehrenreich’s journey began when she left her full-time job as a journalist to delve into the lives of the working poor. She traveled to Florida, Maine, and Minnesota, taking on roles as a waitress, hotel cleaner, house cleaner, nursing care aide, and Wal-Mart sales clerk. Often, she found herself juggling more than one job simultaneously to make ends meet. No matter how much she spent budgeting her expenses, she lived paycheck to paycheck. She experienced a stark portrayal of the challenges faced by those earning minimum wage. Yet, she saw how important it was to note the resilience and determination of these workers, who continue to strive despite their odds, inspiring us with their unwavering spirit.

Through her varied job experiences, Ehrenreich discovered that no job is truly “unskilled.” Each position required mastering new tools, learning specific terminology, and understanding distinct operational procedures. Her coworkers and supervisors heavily influenced the quality of her work life, as they taught her the essential skills to do her jobs right or even get better schedules. Moreover, she realized that performing too well could paradoxically lead to increased expectations, potentially raising the bar for others in similar positions.

One of the most striking aspects of Ehrenreich’s narrative is her struggle with mobility and living conditions. Despite owning a car, the costs associated with commuting limited her options. If you try to live near the work to avoid owning a car, you now limit where you live. Even public transportation can be costly. In Nashville, for example, a ticket for 2 hours bus ride costs $2. You will likely spend over 1 hour of wages for transport if you have multiple jobs.

She often found herself in substandard living situations without basic amenities like air conditioning, relying on non-perishable—and frequently unhealthy—food options due to financial constraints. Her experiences highlight a critical issue: even with full-time employment, many Americans struggle to afford basic necessities, including medical insurance. These are not just statistics but real people with real struggles, and it’s crucial to remember that.

Drawing from personal experiences, I never faced the harsh realities of minimum wage labor during my formative years. My seasonal job as a lifeguard during university, which paid double the minimum wage, combined with the security of living with my parents or relatives, shielded me from the financial instabilities faced by many others. As I became an adult, I started meeting other people. This contrast became even more apparent as I encountered stories from individuals struggling with healthcare costs and living below the poverty line.

There are a few things I can do. I can do besides donating toys or food at the foodbank to use my skills in tax preparation. Through volunteer work as a tax preparer for low-income families in Tennessee, I gained further insight into the economic hardships many face. Many spoke to me about their hardships while preparing their taxes. I had to stop doing the tax preparation volunteer since the pandemic. The cessation of this activity due to the pandemic, considering my high-risk spouse, was regrettable but necessary.

Now, we look into the actual statistics. How many Americans are actually in poverty? The 2022 U.S. Census revealed an 11% national poverty rate, translating to 37.9 million people living in poverty (Bureau, n.d.), with local figures in Davidson County, TN, slightly higher.

I know there are some assistant programs. Tax preparation services are one of them. Despite the existence of assistance programs, many still need to be insured and burdened by rising living costs. The static federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour, the same as Tennessee’s minimum wage,  contrasts sharply with the escalating cost of living, exemplified by the near doubling of housing prices in Nashville since 2018. To consider access to the works, you must balance the higher and lower rent with the commute. You are looking at approximately $750 for a studio or 1-bedroom apartment – only a few are available. You can try owning a car and living in a rural area. Even the cars used are costly, and the gas prices are much higher than when I first moved here in 2018.

Can you move out of poverty? Ehrenreich’s narrative and corroborative personal observations make clear the pervasive cycle of poverty. When you don’t have enough money, you eat the available foods. You live in a lot of stress—you will have a higher chance of getting health problems. If you have medical insurance, the situation will be good.

When my husband was ill due to his stroke, I spent time investigating our options. I thought we had saved for a few years with all the medical costs. I was worried that my husband would not get well. Those publications are usually offered in English, but not all Americans can read English. Not everyone had emergency funds saved up. I met a family who was crying during the long-term care. The father, who was around 40 years old, got a brain stroke. She had two young children. She did not speak good English, but their situation stressed her. I gave her the business card for social assistance programs where she could speak her language to get support.

In the United States, poverty is everywhere, but the southern states have a higher poverty rate. I could not conclude the reasons, but I suspected that it had something to do with the types of industries the states have, the types of available jobs, or the infrastructure, such as schools and hospitals. According to Scioto Analysis (September 19, 2023), the cost of living is a significant factor.

Wikipedia. (2021) List of U.S. states and territories by poverty rate. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._states_and_territories_by_poverty_rate

Can a government do something about it? Perhaps. It is not that easy as it is, though. I was trying to make sense of the data, so I corrected various data, such as the inflation rate, the Gini coefficient, etc. I even gathered the data from other countries, such as Canada, Japan, and the EU, where I lived in the past. Factors such as the Gini coefficient or inflation do not correlate straightforwardly with poverty levels, suggesting a complex interplay of socioeconomic factors. Surprisingly, the U.S. is doing better than Japan or EU countries. Since the U.S. has many people, we have many people in poverty.

Ehrenreich’s book provides a compelling look into the lives of the working poor, a condition exacerbated by inadequate wages and rising living costs. Her experiences underscore the urgent need for policy reform and support systems that address the roots of poverty and provide meaningful support to those in need. Now, I see how complicated that would be. We still need to advocate for changes that will allow more individuals to escape the cycle of poverty and achieve economic stability.

I’m glad I read this book, even though it was depressing. I should remember that this is the reality for nearly 38 million Americans. And this is the 3rd banned book I read.

References

Bureau, U. C. (n.d.). National Poverty in America Awareness Month: January 2024. Census.Gov. Retrieved June 18, 2024, from https://www.census.gov/newsroom/stories/poverty-awareness-month.html

Scioto Analysis. (2023, September 19). Poverty in the States: 2022. https://www.sciotoanalysis.com/news/2023/9/19/poverty-in-the-states-2022

U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: Davidson County, Tennessee. (n.d.). Retrieved June 21, 2024, from https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/davidsoncountytennessee/RHI425222

Wikipedia. (n.d.) List of U.S. states and territories by poverty rate. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_U.S._states_and_territories_by_poverty_rate

Posted on

Exploring the Dystopian Depths of ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ by Margaret Atwood

The second book I selected from the banned book list was “The Handmaid’s Tale” by Margaret Atwood. This dystopian novel is set in a fictional future known as the Republic of Gilead. This society in this book, governed by a secretive religious regime adhering to strict Christian doctrines,  incorporates Biblical references, providing a basis for its ideologies. Atwood, who identifies as a Puritan, crafted this ominous world from a blend of personal experiences and historical atrocities, as discussed in her interview on Pod Save America (2023).

Upon first delving into the novel, I was immediately unsettled. The story portrays a totalitarian regime overtaking parts of the United States, stripping away freedoms, particularly from women who are reduced to mere possessions of men. The book describes a highly oppressed society. There is no freedom of expression. People in this society lived with fears. During her Pod Save America interview (2023), Atwood referenced her trips to Eastern Europe in the 1980s, explaining the passive acceptance of oppressive societies as a result of severe consequences for resistance, such as being shot (3:45 – 10:19).

The story’s protagonist, once a university-educated woman with a career and a family, is trapped in a dire situation following a crackdown on women’s rights. Imagine suddenly losing all access to your money and being banned from reading—parallels drawn to Ray Bradbury’s ‘Fahrenheit 451’. After being captured while attempting to flee to Canada, she faces a grim choice: become a handmaid or be condemned to die in colonies, a type of concentration camp. Upon choosing the former, she loses her identity and is renamed Offred, signifying her possession by a man named Fred. Her primary role is to become a concubine for a couple who could not have a child – this mirrors an ancient practice referenced in the Bible, where women like Rachel and Leah used their maids as surrogates (Genesis 29-30, 35). According to Barasso (2022, October 5), this type of marriage arrangement existed in ancient Mesopotamian marriage contracts.

The narrative explores the concept of Concubinage. The idea of the Concubinage system has been introduced previously. In our history, Concubinage was particularly prevalent in historical Asia such as Japan and China. They considered this type of arrangement to be less risky because children of concubines were often deemed illegitimate and devoid of inheritance rights unless explicitly permitted by the father (King’s College History Department, n.d.).

As the story progresses, we experience the harsh realities of Gilead through Offred’s perspective, which is marked by her incredible resilience and determination to survive. She encounters others who oppose the regime, forming risky alliances and emotional bonds, further complicating her precarious existence.

The novel’s climax remains ambiguous as Offred is taken away by the secret police, known as the Eyes, with only the reassurances of Nick, a sympathetic character, to suggest her removal might be part of a resistance effort known as May Day.

Atwood skillfully unfolds the narrative, allowing the reader to gradually comprehend Gilead’s oppressive nature through Offred’s descriptions and observations, such as “the shatterproof windows” of her bedroom, hinting at the extremes taken to prevent escaping through the last result of suicide. I found this writing style to be a clever choice by the author, as the story kept us in suspense.

The display of executed dissenters, stringent control measures, and pervasive surveillance echo the chilling atmospheres of other dystopian works like George Orwell’s “1984” and Bradbury’s “Fahrenheit 451”. The echoes of totalitarian regimes from history, such as the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, which arose from dire social conditions in Russia, provide a somber reminder of how quickly societies can deteriorate under certain pressures (History, n.d.).

Atwood talks about how tough times can make people more open to religious and spiritual beliefs (Pod Save America, 2022). She points out that religious ideas feel more meaningful and powerful when people struggle. She also notes that many of us hold some form of religious or spiritual beliefs (10:45 – 15:52). According to surveys from the Pew Research Center, 88% of Americans believe in a god or some other higher power (Kallo, 2023). These beliefs could more easily influence people in difficult times.

Living in the United States, we’re lucky to have the First Amendment protect our freedoms. Yet, “The Handmaid’s Tale” makes us think about how fragile these rights can be during tough times, like during pandemics or economic troubles. It’s easy for politicians to use our fear and anger for their benefit. This book highlights how important it is for us to stay alert and maintain a careful balance—protecting our freedoms while also respecting the rights of others.

The Handmaid’s Tale” is more than just a novel; it is a profound commentary on societal dynamics, personal agency, and the importance of guarding our liberties against potential encroachments. It serves as a stark warning and a compelling narrative that challenges readers to remain aware of how quickly the world can change, urging them to cherish and defend their freedoms diligently.

References

Barasso, M. (2022, October 5). Rachel and Leah in the Bible. Biblical Archaeology Society. https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/people-cultures-in-the-bible/people-in-the-bible/rachel-and-leah-in-the-bible/

History. (n.d.). Post-war Economies (Russian Empire) | International Encyclopedia of the First World War (WW1). Retrieved June 12, 2024, from https://encyclopedia.1914-1918-online.net/article/post-war_economies_russian_empire

Kallo, P. T., Justin Nortey and Asta. (2023, December 7). 2. Spiritual beliefs. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/12/07/spiritual-beliefs/

King’s College History Department. (n.d.).Concubinage in Asia. Retrieved June 13, 2024, from https://departments.kings.edu/womens_history/concubin.html

Pod Save America (2023). Margaret Atwood on the Rise of Real World Authoritarians | Offline With Jon Favreau. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ta3FaoKgHtA

Posted on

Rediscovering Calm: A 60-Day Meditation Journey and Its Impact on My Life

Embarking on a personal experiment, I initiated a meditation routine on April 17, 2024, marking my second attempt at incorporating meditation into my daily life. My previous endeavor was short-lived, plagued by impatience and a lack of observable benefits, which led me to prematurely abandon the practice. I have always struggled with activities that require stillness and patience, such as watching movies or simply sitting still, with my media consumption largely limited to YouTube.

Prompted by a burgeoning curiosity, I revisited meditation. The nagging thought of potentially missing out on significant benefits simply because I disliked remaining stationary was unsettling. Determined to explore the unknown possibilities of meditation, I decided to give it another earnest attempt.

Driven by widespread claims of meditation’s benefits, I set a 60-day goal for myself for this attempt, hypothesizing that a fixed timeframe might encourage persistence. I established parameters for tracking my progress, deciding to monitor my sleep quality, weight, heart rate, and daily meditation adherence via the Finch App.

As noted in my April 20 entry, I faced significant challenges in maintaining a consistent meditation practice early in the project. My grade school memories of enforced brief morning 3-minute meditation sessions, which were agonizing, seemed to haunt me. I had a habit of doing something when I was supposed to sit still and meditate, such as reading. Cunningly, I started to think about piano music in my head, which still got me in trouble on multiple occasions. My teacher often scolded me for not doing the meditation seriously back then.

As an adult, my problems from childhood persist. Thoughts, particularly daily tasks, intrusively disrupted my attempts at mental clarity. I had to get rid of the garbage of my thoughts. Data analysts often use the word GIGO (Garbage in, garbage out.) I decided to purge my thoughts before I started meditation. I strategized around this by scheduling meditation after morning journaling and daily planning, which improved my focus on physical sensations like body temperature and breathing patterns. However, I often struggled to sustain attention during the sessions, which typically lasted between 5 and 15 minutes in the mornings and 10 to 20 minutes at night.

Mondays proved particularly difficult due to early work commutes and abbreviated morning routines. In the bigging, I woke up at 5:15 am, 15 minutes earlier, to do all my morning routines, including this meditation. Now, I had difficulty concentrating because my time was too tight. On such days, I managed only five minutes of meditation in the morning, compensating with a slightly longer session in the evening.

Over time, I observed an interesting shift in my mental processes during meditation. Although I still doubted the correctness of my technique, I began to experience moments of detached awareness, where my frustrations and concerns appeared as if belonging to someone else, akin to watching a movie of my own thoughts. This experience may last for a few minutes – I think. I was too worried to get out of this experience, so I hesitated to open my eyes. This new perspective, emerging sporadically, was fascinating.

I saw some changes in my data, which I corrected over time. Physiologically, I noted a significant reduction in my average resting heart rate, a benefit possibly augmented by general weight loss, which I also monitored throughout the experiment. My relationship with food also transformed; meditation diminished my cravings, particularly emotional eating, which I had abstained entirely from since starting the practice. This change, coupled with increased exercise and meticulous dietary logging, contributed to a weight loss of 5 pounds in May. However, the hot weather also played a role in this by increasing water loss.

Regarding my sleep, while my overall sleep quality improved by 6 points in May, with a slight increase in REM sleep durations of 5 minutes, deep sleep remained elusive. I have way too much REM sleep and less deep sleep, according to my sleep log, than I would like. So, I aspired to more deep sleep, believing it to be crucial for my well-being.

Reflecting on the potential health benefits of meditation, I turned to authoritative sources like the Harvard Medical School website, which confirmed that consistent practice could significantly lower heart rate, blood pressure, and stress levels, provided the sessions lasted at least ten minutes (Meditation Offers Significant Heart Benefits, 2023). My meditation routine, particularly the evening sessions, aligned with these recommendations, potentially explaining some of the physiological improvements I observed.

Contrary to my physical health gains, my sleep quality saw only marginal improvements; my result was inconsistent with some academic findings, such as those by Rush et al. (2019), which questioned the impact of meditation on sleep after analyzing metadata consisting of 3,303 total records and 18 trials from 1654 participants. Their research suggested that while some immediate benefits might be noticeable, they could not see the effect on sleep quality from mindful meditation intervention (p.7).

As my 60-day trial concludes in 10 days, I remained committed to continuing meditation beyond this initial period. Despite the challenges and ongoing uncertainties about the ‘correctness’ of my technique, the general sense of well-being it imparts is undeniable. Moreover, having not missed a single day of meditation throughout the trial is a personal achievement that motivates me to maintain and refine my practice.

In summary, while the empirical benefits of meditation, particularly concerning sleep quality, remain a topic of some debate, the personal gains in terms of stress management, heart health, and overall well-being are compelling. As I look forward to continuing my meditation journey, I am curious and hopeful about the deeper insights and health benefits a sustained practice might unlock.

References

Meditation offers significant heart benefits. (2023, August 1). Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/meditation-offers-significant-heart-benefits

Rusch, H. L., Rosario, M., Levison, L. M., Olivera, A., Livingston, W. S., Wu, T., & Gill, J. M. (2019). The effect of mindfulness meditation on sleep quality: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1445(1), 5–16. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.13996

Posted on

Reflecting on “Thirteen Reasons Why”: A Novel’s Impact on Teen Issues

In the United States, a number of books have been challenged or banned in schools and libraries. Among these, “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher caught my attention when I saw it on a list of 100 banned books. I chose this book not for any specific reason but because it was readily available.

The story begins with a high school student, Clay Jensen, receiving a mysterious package. Inside, he finds several tapes recorded by his deceased classmate, Hanna Baker. The tapes reveal thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life, and each tape is dedicated to a different person who contributed to her decision. Clay follows a map Hanna left behind as he listens to the tapes, uncovering his peers’ often painful actions and choices.

Throughout the book, issues such as betrayal, bullying, underage drinking, and sexual assault are explored. These topics start with a rumor about Hanna that spirals out of control, impacting her profoundly. Despite her attempts to seek help, the lack of adequate support reaches a breaking point for her.

Clay’s tape does not accuse him of harming her. Instead, Hanna wanted to share her feelings with him because he genuinely cared for her. This part of the book made me ponder whether I could have been as supportive as Clay tried to be, especially if I faced rejection. In the end, Clay hesitated to help her after the rejection – which I could not really blame him.

“Thirteen Reasons Why” was one of the top ten most challenged books in 2012, primarily because of its raw depiction of sensitive issues like teen suicide and bullying, which some thought inappropriate for young readers (Gomez, 2018). These concerns led to its removal from some school libraries and even bans in certain districts.

Despite having yet to experience high school in the U.S., the book paints a realistic picture of teens’ pressures and challenges. It might resonate with many young readers who see aspects of their own lives reflected in Hanna’s story.

As I read, things might have been different for Hanna if the adults around her had offered better guidance. Her parents’ constant arguing and the ineffective advice from her school counselor added to her sense of isolation. Those thoughts made me question why more supportive measures, like counseling helplines and better communication, were not available to her.

The book is undeniably provocative and presents an opportunity to address the real issues it raises. Research indicates these problems are widespread, with studies showing that bullying, drug addiction, and alcohol issues are major concerns among teens. Additionally, over 20% of teens have considered suicide (Pappas, 2023), highlighting our lack of infrastructure and emphasizing a critical need for better mental health support in our schools (Stamm & Assefa, 2023).

Banning the book doesn’t solve these underlying issues. Instead, we should focus on improving our social support structures for distressed young people. The story “Thirteen Reasons Why” is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding, particularly when addressing sensitive issues among teenagers.

In conclusion, Jay Asher’s novel is a powerful tool that encourages deep reflection on how to better support our youth. Rather than shying away from complex topics, we should use stories like these to spark meaningful conversations and push for changes that genuinely help those in need. Despite its controversies, I hope that this book will be read by many, whether they are parents, educators, or simply individuals who care about the well-being of young people.

 

References

Gomez, B. (2018, September 17). Banned Spotlight: Thirteen Reasons Why | Banned Books Week. Banned Books Week. https://bannedbooksweek.org/banned-spotlight-thirteen-reasons-why/

Graf, J. M. H. and N. (2019, February 20). Most U.S. Teens See Anxiety and Depression as a Major Problem Among Their Peers. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2019/02/20/most-u-s-teens-see-anxiety-and-depression-as-a-major-problem-among-their-peers/

Pappas, S. (2023, July 1). More than 20% of teens have seriously considered suicide. Psychologists and communities can help tackle the problem. Https://Www.Apa.Org. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/07/psychologists-preventing-teen-suicide

Stamm, K., & Assefa, M. (2023, June 1). There aren’t enough psychologists trained to treat kids in need. Here’s why. Https://Www.Apa.Org. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/06/psychologists-needed-to-treat-teens

Posted on

Exploring the Irony of Banned Books in Key West

During my trip to Key West, I had an unforgettable experience at The Studios of Key West, located at Simonton Street and Eaton Street. The building caught our attention with its modern design and stylish window displays. Knowing my passion for books, my husband pointed it out during our first encounter with the place. Although we initially passed it by due to a planned visit to Hemingway’s house, we returned later.

Inside, I stumbled upon an intriguing book titled “Read These Banned Books,” published by the American Library Association. Flipping through it, I discovered a list of 100 books, some of which were familiar to me as dystopian novels, like “Brave New World” by Aldous Huxley, “1984” by George Orwell, and “The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins.

The term “banned” doesn’t imply that these books are entirely unavailable in the United States. They can be bought or borrowed from someone who has them, though they might not be found in your local library or school. Interestingly, The Studios of Key West had these books on display, reinforcing the belief that literature should remain uncensored.

It struck me as ironic that books like “Brave New World” and “1984,” which portray worlds plagued by extreme censorship, are themselves banned. If “Fahrenheit 451” were also on the list, it would complete the books I’ve discussed in a previous blog about literary censorship.

As someone who cherishes reading, I find banning books disheartening. While I’m no book critic or expert, I trust my ability to recognize compelling literature, which often leaves me with mixed feelings about banned books.

Now, I’d like to share a darker story and caution sensitive readers to proceed with care. In 2012, a book was published under a pseudonym by an author, Shonen A, who confessed to committing murders in Kobe, Japan, in 1997. The author was underage, and the name was not released. The victims were grade-schoolers, and the book was released without the knowledge of the victims’ families. I personally choose not to read or purchase such a book, as I cannot support profiting from others’ tragedies. The important thing is that I decided not to read the book.

Despite not being a professional critic, my curiosity drives me to explore these controversial books, many of which are influential yet banned. This exploration is not just about reading; it’s also about understanding the reasons behind their bans. I came across a lecture series titled “Banned Books, Burned Books Forbidden Literary Works,” which I plan to follow while I delve into these banned books.

There are 100 banned books on the list. It will take time to read them all, but I am committed to reading them slowly and with intent. My goal is not just to read but also to research and understand the context of their bans, ultimately forming my own opinions on whether these books deserve to be censored.

This journey through banned books is not only about discovery but also a personal statement on the importance of freedom in literature and the right to choose what we read, regardless of the controversy surrounding the content.

Posted on

The Surprising Secrets of Mangroves: A Family Trip Revelation

Sometimes, we might overlook something truly incredible because of our first impressions. I’ve been there, too, and I’d love to share a story about how my view changed during a family trip to the Keys.

When we first saw the mangroves, I’ll admit, I wasn’t impressed. They have these odd-looking roots that stick out over the water and stand in dark, shallow waters that don’t look very clean. I even joked to myself that they were called mangroves because they looked like a bunch of men trying to form a grove! It reminded me of the time I used to peek under rocks until one day; I saw a two-headed snail—both were a bit unsettling at first.

I was ready to leave to see something more interesting, such as a beautiful ocean. Then, my husband asked a simple question that made me pause: “How do these trees live in this salty water?” Honestly, I totally forgot we had been looking at the ocean until he mentioned it.

That question stuck with me for the rest of our vacation. When we got home, I started researching mangroves and fell into a rabbit hole of discovery. The only thing I can imagine is a plant-looking thing in the ocean is Kelp, and Kelp is not even a plant. I didn’t even know a plant could grow in the ocean. 

What is Mangrove, then? According to the U.S. Department of Commerce (U.S. Department of Commerce, n.d.), mangroves only grow in subtropical areas or near the equator, like some parts of Texas, Louisiana, and southern Florida in the U.S. There are about 80 different species around the world, thriving in low-oxygen soil, brackish waters, and even the ocean. Their roots are super cool—they can filter out up to 90% of the salt from seawater!

I learned more about how their roots work. According to scientists from Korea (Kim et al., 2016), the Mangrove’s root membrane selectively pulls in chloride ions while keeping out most of the sodium ions at the first membrane layer. A second membrane blocks the chloride ions, so the chloride ions are trapped between the first and the second layers of root membranes. This setup causes the trapped chloride ions (Cl-) to create a massive negative charge, which attracts sodium ions (Na+) back toward the first membrane like a strong negatively charged magnet. It’s a clever system that lets air pass but keeps salt water out, making it possible for mangroves to thrive in salty environments. Researchers are even trying to mimic this filtering process through ionization to develop new water purification systems.

My research didn’t stop there. Mangroves are also home to tiny microorganisms that can withstand harsh environments and even help synthesize metallic nanoparticles with their special synthesizing pathway (Vaish & Pathak, 2023). These nanoparticles are being studied because they could be key in creating new materials to help with pollution cleanup.

Mangroves play a crucial role as natural barriers protecting our coasts from hurricanes, winds, waves, and floods. They also improve the water quality in their areas. I had no idea mangroves were so fascinating.

So, what’s the takeaway from this adventure? If my husband hadn’t asked about the mangroves, I might have written them off as creepy trees in muddy water. It’s a good reminder not to judge things based only on first impressions.

 

References

Kim, K., Seo, E., Chang, S.-K., Park, T. J., & Lee, S. J. (2016). Novel water filtration of saline water in the outermost layer of mangrove roots. Scientific Reports, 6(1), 20426. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep20426

US Department of Commerce, N. O. and A. A. (n.d.). What is a mangrove forest? Retrieved May 19, 2024, from https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/mangroves.html

Vaish, S., & Pathak, B. (2023). Mangrove synthesized bio-nanomaterial and its applications: A review. Environmental Nanotechnology, Monitoring & Management, 20, 100866. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enmm.2023.100866

Posted on

Tofu Adventures: From Taste Tests to Homemade Delights

Lately, I’ve had a strange craving for Okara, which is odd because it’s not something you typically find on the shelves here in North America. Okara is a byproduct of tofu production, which is a staple in Japan but seems to play hide and seek in my local stores!

Growing up in Japan, I ate a daily parade of tofu and Okara. It’s hard to recall a single day without them. However, things changed when I moved to Canada; my tofu escapades became infrequent visits to Chinatown. The tofu here had a different vibe—it just didn’t taste like the tofu I was used to back home. I later learned that it’s because they use a different coagulant here. As for Okara, it seemed to have vanished completely.

Fast forward to 2018, after relocating to Tennessee, we discovered a Korean grocery store a mere 20 minutes from our house. Tofu has improved its shelf life in the last decade, prompting us to buy it more often. Here’s the twist: my husband isn’t exactly the president of the tofu fan club—he claims it tastes like a sponge! To win him over, I introduced him to Ma Po Tofu; believe it or not, he liked it! Sadly, the quest for Okara still came up empty.

Okara isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with fiber and bioactive compounds, making it incredibly healthy. According to Healthline, adults under 50 should aim for 38 grams of fiber daily for men and 25 grams for women. Over 50? You’re looking at 30 grams for men and 21 grams for women. Plus, you can toss Okara into a variety of recipes, like using it as a burger filling—talk about a fiber-filled treat!

Okara offers more than just fiber. Science Direct tags it as a nutritional superstar, rich in protein, oils, and soluble and insoluble fibers—the health booster your wallet loves. Unable to find it locally, I decided it was time to get my hands dirty by making my own tofu from scratch!

The process of making tofu is akin to cheesemaking. You’ll need soybeans and a coagulant—choices range from Nigari and Gypsum to Lemon Juice and Vinegar. I prefer Nigari, which adds a slightly sweet taste to the tofu. However, it’s originally a salty byproduct containing magnesium chloride.

My tofu-making skills were supposed to be honed in a home economics class in Japan. Still, I missed that crucial lesson due to a competition. I have zero knowledge! Thankfully, I stumbled upon a fantastic YouTube tutorial by Food for Wellbeing Kawashima-ya. It was in English and used Nigari—perfect!

 

To make tofu, you’ll need:

  • 280g of Soybeans
  • 20ml of Nigari mixed with 50ml of lukewarm water
  • A blender
  • A straining cloth
  • A simple tofu press
  • A weight (a bottled water works just fine)

 

The process involves soaking the dry soybeans overnight, blending them with just enough water, and then heating the mixture before straining it to separate the milk for tofu and the Okara. Once heated, mix the soymilk with Nigari and let it sit, covered, on low heat. A simple tofu press and a water bottle for weight can give you that perfectly firm tofu.

Please check out the video for a more detailed walkthrough:Youtube Video on Tofu Making

Making my own tofu was thrilling, especially since it was my first experience. From this adventure, I produced about 400g of Okara. I made some Okara dishes with the Okara, half of which I shared with fellow Japanese friends. 

 

References

Food for Well beingKawashima-ya (Director). (2021, September 6). How to Make Tofu at Home | Easy Homemade Tofu with just Soybeans, Nigari, and Water. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ga37W4_zRfY

Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber: What’s the Difference? (2017, August 22). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/soluble-vs-insoluble-fiber

Okara—An overview | ScienceDirect Topics. (n.d.). Retrieved May 14, 2024, from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/food-science/okara

Posted on

Jam-packed Saturday: A Dash of Sweet, A Pinch of Spicy

It’s Saturday, and you know what that means—adventure time! After my usual morning sprint, scribbling in my journal, and wrestling with German verbs, we zoomed off to the farmer’s market at Frankly Factory. Though it’s only 8 AM, the place buzzes like a beehive with folks snagging the freshest local goodies. Our mission? A glorious bucket of strawberries. Yup, it’s jam-making day!

These strawberries are not just berries; they’re possibly the sweetest I’ve ever tasted. Making our own jam is the way to go because, honestly, who wants mystery ingredients in their jelly? Today’s spicy-sweet concoction requires about 1.5 pounds of crushed strawberries and, surprise—a half cup of jalapeño peppers. I couldn’t wait until I got home; I snuck a strawberry—super sweet!

With my trusty strawberry pit remover (a magical gift from my hubby a few years back), I prepped 4 cups of berries in no time. It’s a game-changer, making the task so much easier! Next up, I mixed in some sugar and let it work its magic to draw out the juicy goodness. Then came the jalapeños, which always make me sneeze my head off. To avoid a jalapeño chunk catastrophe, I blitzed them in the blender—no tears or sneezes!

Strawberries are low in pectin, so tossing in some high-pectin lemon helped set the jam just right. I’m not much for using commercial pectin. With the jam looking good, I sanitized some bottles (carefully—they’re hot!) and bottled up six little jars of my homemade delight.

Even after all that jamming, I still had over 2 pounds of strawberries left. I chopped them up, sealed them in bags, and prepped them for my next jam session. The rest? We’re munching on those sweet treats for the next few days.

What a sweet and spicy start to the weekend!

Posted on

Day 4 Farewell to the Keys: Turtles, Tunes, and Final Tropical Treasures

Today marks our final day on the island. While a part of me wishes we could stay a bit longer, the thought of heading back to Nashville is also quite appealing. Our plan? To hit the aquarium in Key West before wandering around Mallory Square. Despite some lingering muscle aches, we’re determined to make the most of our last day in the Keys.

 

The aquarium here is smaller than the one in Marathon, but it’s still home to some remarkable sea turtles. Take Lola, for example, a turtle who’s had her share of adventures. She lost a flipper due to a predator attack and, after being released back into the wild, returned with her other flipper tangled in a fishing line. Now, she swims gracefully with a prosthetic flipper, a true survivor’s tale.

 

Then there’s Rocky, a green sea turtle with a quirky addition to his shell—a device that helps him float, mistaken by some (myself included) for a stuck brick! After a boat accident damaged his shell and flipper, living in the wild became impossible, so he now calls this aquarium home.

Meet Rocky, the green sea turtle with a unique floating aid on his shell, a testament to survival and adaptation.

Hector, the hawksbill sea turtle, also caught our eye with his stunning shell. Luckily, the Endangered Species Act of 1973 prevented him from becoming a decorative item.

Visiting this aquarium brought back memories of my childhood in Japan, where we, too, protected sea turtles known as “Ao Umigame.” I grew up learning about their plight and the importance of conservation, a lesson that clearly resonates here as well.

 

Lunch was at Sloppy Joe’s Restaurant, a place steeped in local lore and famously linked to Hemingway. The atmosphere was buzzing with live music from Kaira Jayden, a 16-year-old ukulele virtuoso whose talent was nothing short of inspiring. It’s moments like these that make travel so enriching.

 

Afterward, we strolled through Mallory Square, eventually finding a shaded spot near where a majestic cruise ship was docked. The cool breeze and diverse crowd made it a perfect place to reflect on our visit.

As the clock neared two, it was time to leave the Keys. We drove towards the airport, planning to stop at a few beaches along the way and hoping to grab a meal at Ms. Mac’s Kitchen, where our journey began.

 

The beaches were breathtaking, with strong winds that almost threatened to send my phone flying—a small price to pay for such stunning scenery. We lingered longer than planned, soaking in as much as we could.

This captivating photograph features the iconic old pedestrian bridge stretching elegantly over the calming waters in Key,

By the time we reached our inn near the airport, it was past 8 p.m. We still needed to shower and pack for our early morning flight, and the day ended in a flurry of activity.

 

I didn’t manage to read much tonight, but with the day’s adventures behind me, I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep, filled with dreams of returning to this enchanting place.

Posted on

Day 3 A Lively Day in Key West: Hemingway, Roosters, and Rum

This morning, I woke up feeling like I had wrestled a bear—muscle aches galore! But honestly, I get a kick out of them; they’re like little trophies for pushing my limits at the gym. You know, nothing says “great workout” quite like wincing every time you move.

Today was meant to be all about marathons, but instead, we zoomed off to Key West, aiming for a pilgrimage to Hemingway’s house. After munching down some protein bars, we hit the road from Marathon Key. Poor Brian looked like he barely survived a night at a rooster concert, although I didn’t hear a peep—I must’ve crashed hard!

By the time we got there around 10 a.m., Key West was bustling with cars and tourists. We lucked out and snagged a parking spot near Hemingway’s house. Close by was a lighthouse, so we thought, “Why not?” The climb was a nail-biter with those tiny steps, and my being a bit jittery about heights didn’t help. Brian was snapping pics left and right, and I just hoped he wouldn’t turn into a flying photographer.

Atop the lighthouse, we spotted the name of the 12th U.S. President. Fun fact: Brian’s related to Zachary Taylor. Seems like a family tradition to serve in the military, just like Taylor’s descendants.

 

We bumped into a couple from a cruise and realized a colossal ship was docked nearby. From up high, it still looked massive. And oh, the chickens roaming everywhere! It turns out they’re descendants of escapee fighting chickens from Cuba—no one owns them, but mess with them, and you’re in for a fine!

Chickens roam freely on the vibrant streets of Key West.

Thanks to my legendary lack of direction, we somehow ended up far from Hemingway’s house, turning our day into an unexpected marathon. We changed plans and went to a rum distillery we were supposed to visit tomorrow. We caught the 1 o’clock tour and learned all about Hemingway’s association with rum. I didn’t know it took ages to craft rum—no wonder it’s pricey!

Papa’s Punch is a cocktail made with Papa’s Pilar Blonde Rum. It was sweet.

Afterward, we ducked into a bookstore where I snagged a book on banned literature—talk about a rebel reading list!

Finally, we made it to Hemingway’s house. I’ve been a Hemingway nut since my teens, and stepping into his home felt surreal. Brian, having recently enjoyed “The Old Man and the Sea,” was equally thrilled. Hemingway’s life was as colorful as his stories, surviving wars and plane crashes, maybe thanks to his lucky polydactyl cats, which we sadly only spotted a few of.

A cat sleeping on the bed Hemingway slept.

His writing studio was a step back in time; everything left just so as if he’d just stepped out. It reignited my desire to dive back into his works.
As for the cats, they’re practically celebrities, protected by the government, and occasionally fending off the odd chicken intruder.

Ernest Hemingway’s well-worn typewriter, preserved just as he left it.

We wrapped up our day with dinner at a Cuban restaurant, where I braved a Cuban coffee—strong enough to fuel a rocket, yet it didn’t keep me awake!

All in all, it was a day full of misadventures, history, and lots of walking—not exactly what we planned, but maybe that’s just how Hemingway would’ve liked it.