Carochan

Hello,

If you are Japanese or know the language, you might wonder why I refer to myself as Carochan. My Obaachan (grandmother) called me that,and my mother still does. It is a form of addressal in Japan; it is a pet name to me. (Yes, American man marries Japanese woman post WWII.)

I enjoy learning about different places, people, and cultures, and I hope you tell me about yourself. I believe that a good story lies behind every object, place, and person, so please tell me a story or two of yours. Tell me your funny or quirky or poignant story. Whatever you write, I am waiting to read it!

I stopped putting my Received cards into my Favorites, but you will know I love your card because I will tell you how you touched me when I write my reply.

Do you want help deciding on a card for me? Try these ideas:

1. Pictures of neighborhoods or streets, markets, or people in your country, town, or your favorite place are great!

2. Cards that depict customs, children, dogs, holidays, and festivals such as October Fest, Semana Santa, Feria, Tanabata, Nebuta, Sapporo Snow festivals, St. Patrick, etc., are fantastic! Don't forget to tell me about it!

3. Quirky and/or funny cards are great! I love those Inge ladies and cards that make me laugh!

4. Hand-crafted or postcards of something you photographed are fine. I read postcrosser CarrieJohanna's suggestion of sending a postcard made from colorful cardboard packages, like your favorite packaged food, from your country. Just cut the package to somewhat standard postcard size, write something about the item and yourself, stamp it, and send it to me. I have received a few and love them!

5. Architectural details on buildings, especially Gothic or Byzantine churches or cathedrals, row houses, colorful homes, etc., fascinate me!

6. I am not sure what defines an ad card, but if you have a favorite tourist stop or restaurant, I'm happy to get those, especially if you tell me what makes them a special place. I do not think I could use a postcard from your dentist, lawyer, gynocologist, concert, etc., unless it is a really funny or bizarre card. Mccraze, no thanks! I have a couple of ad cards from local tattoo artists, If you want a tat card, tell me. Nope, I don't have any tats, but I admire the art.

7. If you still are not sure what to send, check out my favorites wall--where I enjoy cards that other postcrossers received.

Do not think you have to run out and purchase a card that fits a suggestion. If you liked a postcard enough to buy or make it, it will be fine for me!

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has an annoying habit of printing a bar code on the bottom ½ inch or 13 mm of the postcard you send. Please keep that space clear.

Thank you for sharing through postcrossing!

Carochan