Heroic Mama

Last Sunday, my family and I went to the local park, expecting a typical day of relaxation. To our surprise, the park was buzzing with activity — the vibrant colors of koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks), music, food stalls, games, and cheerful families filled the space. Koinobori or carp streamers in the park. It was Japan’s annual Children’s Day celebration, a festive occasion that promotes the happiness and uniqueness of children. We might have missed this fun event if we hadn’t gone to the park, Children’s Day, observed on May 5th, is a time to reflect on the joys of childhood and the qualities we hope to foster in our children, such as courage and determination. The koinobori symbolize these traits, inspiring children to grow strong and healthy. As a parent, we can learn a lot from children. They approach the world with fresh eyes, endless curiosity, and a playful spirit. Here are the top three lessons I’ve learned from my one-year-old daughter that remind me to embrace life with th...

Cherry blossom season in Japan is a must-see attraction, captivating visitors with its stunning display of pink petals. From Tokyo to Kyoto, the country is transformed into a scenic wonderland during this beautiful time of year. Whether strolling through historic paths or enjoying a picnic under the cherry trees, viewing the cherry blossoms offers a peek into Japan’s natural beauty and cherished traditions. Every year during the cherry blossom season in April, tourists and locals flock to famous scenic spots to witness the beauty of sakura , the Japanese word for cherry trees. However, there are beautiful sights to view the cherries almost everywhere in the country, including local parks such as Horioseki Park in Oguchi town with 1400 sakura trees where my family and I enjoyed a hanami , the traditional Japanese custom of cherry blossom viewing. Paper lanterns at Horioseki Park which will be lit for the night sakura As I admired the simple and elegant beauty of the 1400 sakura trees...

Hi there! 🙋‍♀️Today,  I would like to share with you about Death.  Yesterda y was the last funeral service for my Japanese grandmother-in-law.  Famil ies and friends gathered to honor her memory and offered prayers and incense as the Buddhist priest chanted the sutras. Grandma looked serene and beautiful in her lilac-colored kimono that accentuated her gentle features.  She rested peacefully in her pristine white casket as if she were taking a serene nap.  Before we sealed Grandma's casket to send her for cremation, we filled her casket with beautiful flowers, letters from families and friends, and her favorite meal, " kabocha " or pumpkin.  We moistened her lips with water, a practice known as the water of the last moment (末期の水, matsugo-no-mizu ). It was a solemn and reverent ceremony honoring and remembering her life and appreciating her wonderful works when she was alive. At 98 years old, Grandma still woke up early every day to tend to her garden, pla...