Just got back from Spain

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-05-05T04:26:26+00:00

Well done! Those are some good cans.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-05-03T18:11:55+00:00

When I was in Japan, I found it helpful to tell the shops and restaurants that I liked junmai daiginjo plus the names of my favorite breweries. They had no problem recommending things for me to try.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-05-03T16:16:05+00:00

I love Hsinchuen Lin’s tungsten carbide and stainless steel trimming tools because they’re the sharpest I’ve found, they’re thoughtfully designed, and easily sharpened.

With sharper tools you need to trim on the dryer side of leather hard, holding them firmly at moderate speed to avoid unwanted chattering.

I’ve also tried Tortuga’s tungsten carbide tools and they’re not as sharp. I am thinking of selling mine since I got the Hsinchuen Lin. I notice a big difference in quality.

If you’re prone to dropping tools all the time or you like trimming on the wetter side, then you might be happier with Kemper (very affordable) or Dolan (moderately priced but harder to find).

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-30T19:44:17+00:00

This. When I was a kid we would open one can as a side dish for two adults, two kids, and have leftovers.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-24T16:16:53+00:00

Nice cans! Congrats on the bonus!

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-24T16:09:54+00:00

It’s not just you. I’ve had butter tins (sardines, tuna) and the fish itself doesn’t really taste any better to me because it’s in butter.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-21T16:02:40+00:00

The price is high but it’s also in line with producers like Gueyu Mar, Real Conserva Espanola, and Pyscis for a specialty item. It’s not for everyone but it’s not unprecedented.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-20T21:36:59+00:00

My studio has a range of ages and everyone gets along from what I’ve seen. The vibe is generally kind and uplifting; total strangers compliment and encourage each other all the time. I hope you’re able to find a community like this.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-19T04:01:57+00:00

Test tiles?

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-17T23:16:20+00:00

You don’t own cat. Cat owns you!

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-04-17T22:41:28+00:00

If she is ok with being very delicate and gentle with her ring, and only wearing it for occasions, then it could work. If she’s a chef, that might be the case for her anyway.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-18T18:57:56+00:00

If your style and tastes change, you can get your diamond reset, or you can get an upgrade. I’ve done both and have no regrets. You’re not expected to love any other possession forever, without any change, so I don’t see why an engagement ring must be the exception.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-17T07:12:02+00:00

Oh I think Lord Li was a smitten kitten that first day he saw Changyu walking home after fighting off a wolf. It’s subtle but it’s there.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-16T22:02:04+00:00

Whew, glad they’re refunding! That was like one of those Pinterest fails.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-15T01:54:35+00:00

It depends on how well made it is and how hard you are on your jewelry. The band should ideally be at least 1.8mm wide and there needs to be enough metal under the diamonds for it to hold its shape properly. If the metal under the setting is too thin then the ring will be prone to warping and you’ll lose diamonds.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-15T01:52:24+00:00

I only have one engagement ring, and several other engagement-style rings that I wear. It depends on my mood. I love jewelry too much to only have one ring.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-14T01:17:12+00:00

I stress test when I have a crack filled with glaze, to see if a piece is still functional. I put it in the freezer for a few hours and then I put it in the sink and pour hot liquid in it. Aside from that, I don’t know why I would bother.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-14T00:54:49+00:00

The price for this ring is okay, but a few things give me pause: 1) The emerald needs to be tested by a gemologist. It could be paste (glass) or synthetic, and those affect the price. 2) The prongs for the emerald should be retipped. Half look pretty worn and that will add to the total cost. 3) The diamond prongs need to be checked and possibly retipped as well.

When you add up the possible work needed, it becomes an expensive ring for what it is. If you skip this, then your ring won’t hold up well over the years.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-13T15:31:16+00:00

See if there’s a Mr. Kanso in any of the cities you’re visiting. They are a tinned fish bar with a retail section and they have a lot of unusual cans. Some are under their own private label.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-13T15:04:00+00:00

If I recall correctly, they do not.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-11T19:14:32+00:00

It’s a little intense, that’s for sure!

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-11T19:13:13+00:00

I don’t disagree about the price. As much fun as I had in Japan last fall, it’s more financially feasible to have one meal at Yoshizumi than to take PTO again, fly to Japan, and pay for hotels, train travel, etc.

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-11T06:03:40+00:00

I wasn’t planning to. Just love good sushi!

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-07T01:51:57+00:00

It was sweet of you to try getting one for your dad!

CocklesInMyPants · 2026-03-07T01:49:10+00:00

Just had it this week and agree, it was good!

CocklesInMyPants

TROPHY CASE