English edition

May the damage from the earthquake be minimal."

Happy New Year!

I went to Shiobara Hachiman Shrine for the first visit of the year. In the precincts, an upside-down cedar tree,

estimated to be 1500 years old, catches people's eyes. As I feel the power of this giant tree, I walk around slowly.

At the shrine office, I bought a gourd-shaped charm. I purchase a green sapphire-colored charm every year.

When you look into the small hole of this tiny gourd, you can see the magnificent upside-down cedar tree inside.

Yuppo no Sato is a favorite place of mine.

While charging my car rapidly, I can easily enjoy a foot bath.

Now, what kind of year will this be? Like last year, I will diligently handle whatever comes my way.

And there's one thing I definitely want to try: attending a woodworking class.

I'm not sure when I can make it, but for a large project, I'd like to create a rocking chair of my own design. For a delicate, small piece, I want to try carving a decorative panel for a transom.

As I was thinking about these peaceful things, suddenly, the room started shaking. It felt like a very long earthquake.

<Time has passed significantly, and I'm writing in my blog again.

I was watching the news on TV.>

On New Year's Day, there was a big earthquake,

and many people must have had a tough time.

Relatives, friends, and acquaintances may be worried. I hope everyone is safe.

Yesterday, I touched on the beauty of nature in Japan, but I shouldn't forget that it's a country prone to natural disasters...

We won't know the full extent of the earthquake damage until tomorrow, but I can't help but hope that the damage is minimal.

-English edition