“Hana” meaning “flower” and “mi” from the verb “miru” meaning to see, look or view. Hanami is cherry blossom viewing, and it’s happening in Hyde Park as I write. For the Japanese this involves sitting on tarps under the cherry blossoms and contemplating the ephemeral nature of life. The blossoms stay for just two weeks before the rain and wind blows them down in one hellova pink hurricane. Whole companies as well as individuals have Hanami parties. I remember them fondly from my time in Japan…that is, I remember them drunkenly, for Hanami usually involves large quantities of sake. Oh yes, and chicken on a stick and octopus pancakes. You can check out the pale pink business at Hyde Park, or you can just look at my picture.

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1. The Race
2. London’s 4th gift to the world
3. Barbeque Time!
4. Nature Rats in Hyde Park
5. Bring the Troops Home Demo