Spring is upon us and the cherries have started to bloom. I’m reminded of how nature renews itself in a cycle of life and new beginnings.

I spent yesterday with friends for 花見 (Hanami). It was fun sharing a beautiful spot below a cherry tree with friends drinking, eating, and laughing! While we certainly enjoyed our sakè, none of us were drunk. Hanami is a social gathering, not a bar to get wasted at. 😀 Emi-chan brought some tasty Okinawan food. I’ll have to see about stealing her recipe sometime. 😏

This was a great day to help forget about the recent tragedies that now weigh upon Japan. I refuse to allow myself to become down and depress with this. Instead, I’m planning to enjoy as much as I can over the coming months.