I haven't posted in so long. I always feel guilty when I don't post for a while. I don't know why, since I don't think anyone reads this anyway. I also feel guilty when I don't have anything amazing or substantial to say, and, again, I don't know why.

The above photo was taken at Morikami - Japanese gardens that are in the area. They have regular gardens, water gardens and rock gardens. The day that I went they were also having a koi show so I was floored. I LOVE koi. The fish they had there were 30+ pounds EASY. I have never seen such HUGE fish in my life! I asked the people there how they raised such big fish, and I was told that the man who raised the "grand champion" has a $50,000 pond with at least 12,000 gallons of water. The fish are fed several times a day with automatic feeders and his water quality is always pristine.

Oh, here's a tidbit of info for you: y'know that old wives tale that a fish will only get as big as its tank? Not true. What happens is that fish put out hormones. When their bodies register too many hormones in the water, they stop growing. They get a signal something like, "stop growing! This system can't support you if you get any bigger!" and so they stop. If you keep the water clean all the time, and do not allow those hormones to build up, then your fish will continue to grow no matter how small your tank is. At least, that's what I was told while I was there.

I've found a buddhist group near me that meets every Tuesday for reading groups, walking meditations and regular meditations. I REALLY want to go but I am afraid. I don't do well in group settings, but this is something I really want to try. I'm sure I'll end up forcing myself to go at some point. I HOPE I do. Please, if you read this, leave me some words of encouragement.

Thank you! :)