There is so much written about the beauty and profoundness of cherry blossoms. And yet, my childhood memories of them are quite simple. I grew up in Mimasaka, a small town in Okayama prefecture. Th … read more

Winter solstice will be upon us soon. Days will begin to get longer, and the promise of new beginnings is in the air.As we put 2017 behind us, just as we do every year, we want to say thanks to our … read more

In July, the sun rises before 5:30 in Miyazaki, and my day starts early. By 7 o’clock, Momo (my 5-year-old Papillon) and Yuki (my 2-year-old Japanese Spitz) have had their morning stroll by a … read more

December is the time for traditions, celebrations, and expressing gratitude. It is also time for reflections, hopes, and positive thoughts.We have had a busy year, thanks to every single one of you. A … read more

Autumn has just arrived in Japan, and the mystical, other-worldly looking higanbana (red spider lily, Lycoris radiata) is in bloom. It's time for the Japanese to return to their family homes fo … read more