3 Random Sunday Thoughts (Aug 4th Edition)

Once a week, I send you 3 random thoughts on my mind.

These thoughts cover everything from my books, my Japan life to truly random insights that pop up when I’m on The John (thank you Sir John Harrington).

The point is to move something in you.

And document, for myself, what’s swirling around in my head…

Yes, that was a poop pun.

Let’s get into it.

1. Two thangs

I’m holding two thangs in my hands below.

A Japanese Hannya Noh Theatre Mask on your left.

And my dark fantasy romance novel, Yokai Shadows (2 different covers, same book) on your right.

Which thang are you subscribed to this newsletter for?

A. Japanese Art

B. Books

Hit reply with one letter.

2. Pick up

I’m currently in Okayama prefecture to pick up a customer’s Japanese art order.

Then, I’m headed to Tottori a bit north from here to pick up my washi paperback books from my latest Kickstarter for Yokai Shadows: Special Art Edition.

Afterwards, I’m headed to Osaka to pick up another customer’s Japanese art order.

Lastly, I’m headed to Kyoto to watch some Japanese Noh Theatre and film some content.

Lots of picking up these next few days…

But beyond the physical, I’m curious about what insights, conversations, and questions I might pick up along the way.

Since I first traveled by myself as a green 19-year-old to Japan in 2011, travel has always been the greatest teacher for me.

You naturally learn when you meet new people, places, and perspectives…

But only if you allow yourself to.

What have you learned about yourself lately?

3. $2000 jeans?!

   Okayama is known for it’s denim. A lot of the prices are exorbitant. But the quality lasts for a lifetime. My girlfriend’s friend lives here, so I got some recommended stores I can check out. I understand the logic of buying high-quality garments to last you for years rather than cheap threads that tear in months, $2000 for jeans is still wild to me. I’m a simple man - fashion is mostly functional to me. Aside from the occasional traditional craft clothing, I’m not as interested in telling you who I am through my clothing. I’d rather do that through my conversation. Still we all social signal. My clothes fit, are comfortable, and are low maintenance. Similar to my personality: I can adapt quickly and I like to chill out. That way I can focus my energy on the important. Like, you.

Hope this moved something for ya.

Talk soon,

Brandon “wearing jeans in Japanese summer is asking for torture” Chin