an inspiration
in Japan, Ogata-san has just celebrated her 98th birthday
not only is that impressive
but she is still actively involved in her community
at the workshops she arrives with all her equipment and makings
and sets about rolling dough and making udon noodles
(I’ve always intended to try making noodles but it seems like so much work!)
she moves so quickly every picture is a blur
Bryan is allowed to cut the noodles but she is right there giving instructions
how many people are we feeding for lunch?
then she is outside cooking the noodles
checking things in the kitchen
checking the indigo shibori drying outside
she wore my little red shoes – several sizes to big
I was afraid she would trip and fall
but she went inside and started stitching on her yukata
go to the Japanese Textile Workshops website
to see the dyed yukata fabric and birthday pictures
HAPPY BIRTHDAY Ogata-san
you are famous around the world
and an inspiration to us all
i’m so glad you know her!
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Velma – Bryan’s words are so true, you are aware of her spirit.
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Well, now–isn’t she an inspiration?! I love how she just keeps doing things, too busy to consider slowing down much. And I had to laugh–sometimes I feel like I’m learning weaving too late (at 60) but she’s still learning new things at 98. She’s my hero.
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Kerry – it’s learning new things that keeps her going
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Ogata san is awesome. I read Bryan’s post about her birthday and was so glad she is still living life to the full, and example to everyone to make the most of the simple things and make the most of life. Ogata san, you rock!!
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Lis – so true, Ogata-san rocks!
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Such a dynamo. I read Bryan’s blog yesterday and had plenty of wonderful memories. Still going strong at 98 and stitching up a storm. Wow!
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Judi – she is so tiny and looks like a puff of wind would blow her away but the spirit is strong.
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Happy Birthday, Ogata-San, from California!
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Tobie – I’ll pass the wishes on to Bryan
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What a lady! Happy Birthday!
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Heather – she is like the ever ready bunny, just keeps going. It would be a different world if everyone had her courage to keep on living each day fully.
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