Sign(s) of the times

This past week was all about signs. Lot's of signals that spring is on it's way. I even saw my first cherry blossoms today...as seen above. In addition to that, it seemed like everywhere I went I found interesting signs. Take this for example.


This is on the ceiling as you walk down the stairs at my subway station. I saw it for the first time this week...although it can't be new. I almost tripped when I saw it. My mind nearly exploded with the possible interpretations of the text and image: stop floating down the stairs, stop doing acid, once you start tripping: STOP!, etc. I like the sticker. Its a little pick-me-up on the way to work. Speaking of subways, I had to take my least favorite train line the other day. Why is it my least favorite?


The train rolls DEEP!!! The Oedo Line. I always feel like I'm coming up from the middle of the earth. 5 floors under the street. After I escaped from the deep lairs, I snapped a (slightly out of focus in a romantic way??) picture of the famous Tokyo Tower.


For all the time I have spent in Tokyo, I have yet to visit this landmark. Oh well, maybe someday. While we are going crazy with the pics of Japan...let's talk aboutheros . In Japan superheros are everywhere: TV shows, action figures, TV ads, and on and on. Not really my cup of tea, BUT I found my new favorite:


Abacus Man! And don't forget his trusty side-kick:


Calculator Boy! They make quite a pair. Don't you hate not knowing exactly what 35% off of $125 is? Don't waste your time thinking!!! Call the Amazing Abacus Man! They guys kill me. They are being displayed at a Nissan showroom. I'd buy a Nissan, just to keep these 2 heros employed. Speaking of cars, what classic cars do these fresh kicks remind you of.


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These are a set of New Balances that take inspiration from iconic cars. In order from top to bottom, we have a Porsche Carrera.



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Next we have a Ferrari Testarossa.



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And finally we have the Triumph.



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I like the idea of these. Click HERE for more info. I always have a soft spot in my heart for New Balance. There are some nice details: the perforated leather toe box, the gauges on the insoles, the red patent leather at the heel to replicate a brake light, and really dig the metal lace holder. But, I'm afraid I think they could have done a bit more with the shoes. More metal?? I'm not sure. I think its great, but it could have been fantastic. Whatever the case, New Balance has been experiencing a re-birth as of late for sneaker heads. As for me, I have with them the whole time. If I were to get one of these, I would have the black ones inspired by the Ferrari. As for the cars, I would go with the Porsche.

Oh, and speaking of kicks. I picked up one shoe related item last weekend. Peep this.


It is a sneaker coloring book! Can you stand it. As soon as I saw it I knew that I must poses it. That turned out to be easier said than done, since they only had a sample copy available. But after some panicked communication they tracked one down at another store. One 10 minute train ride later, and it was mine.


I had mad love for coloring books when I was growing up. Tons of cars and trucks colored in to the very best of my feeble abilities. This book was done by N8TVE. I have no idea who they are...but they produced a killer product. I have colored one already. Check it out.


Yeah, that's right, I made photocopies of it, so as to not ruin the book. Crazy? or Crazy smart?! I chose to color the Reebok Fury first as a prayer that I find mine! I had a pair a long time ago...and they have up and disappeared. Not cool. Anyways, as this post is continuing to do, speaking of coloring stuff in.


I guess some things are universal. Never a huge fan of the teeth blacking on posters...but I guess it does serve it's function in society. No harm, no foul.

And lastly today. A special shout out goes to a gal who just might be working too hard.


That's my City Sis. And today is her birthday. Happy B-day!!! Wish I was there to give you a big hug and celebrate. That, and buy you some more kicks! Have a great day and keep kicking ass and taking names. No...not taking names....taking NAPS!