Kanji of the year and whaling

Every year the Japanese choose a kanji to represent the spirit of the year. It's fairly democratic apparently, but ya never can tell! *g*. Thousands send in their selection and the final one is selected by the Japan Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation parent organisation in Tokyo, in conjunction with Kiyomizu Temple in Kyoto.

This year it's "gi". In hiragana - ぎ and Kanji - 偽
- imitation; lie; falsehood; (logical) false; deception; sham; bogus

Due to all the political scandals (what's new?) but also especially for the food scandals - pork mascarading as beef (minced) and very obviously out of date food gifts at popular tourist places. Remind me not to buy any cakes at Hakone next year *snerk*
( more on Japan's illegal whaling and Australia's response )

Mascot for 2010 Shanghai World Expo Unveiled

and smaller version

Compare Haibao to previous Expo Mascots

( what haibao means )

The Hobbit films ... yes that is a plural "s", make no mistake *ggg*

So it seems Peter Jackson and Fran Walsh have resolved their differences with New Line, with the help of MGM and Peter will be producing two films, one of The Hobbit and one bridging the 80 year gap between the Hobbit and FotR. W00t! And apparently some of the LotR actors have expressed interest in reprising their roles!

The film-makers set up a website, thehobbitblog for the fans, where you can read all about the mutual back slapping *g* and stay tuned for more info! I'm ercasse_corin (="holly enclosure" in Quenya) over there.

See ya 'round the Four Farthings *g*