Souvenir from Nara, Japan
Dear Michian Friends, Happy New Year, it's a Lunar new year
I finally made the moment to write with my deepest appreciation to you…., sharing souvenir from Nara, Japan.
I was in Japan past December and January..., as mother completed her beautiful life in December 9th, so peacefully. Her life was fulfilled and loved. Endless messages, visitors, flowers, and most of all, love and stories. I have been receiving from her friends, communities, and neighbors. Everyone was saying..., they had never heard her complain, but gratitude and encouragement.
Deep breathing and smile here…, close our eyes to recall the happiest moment of the year 2023. I think I can choose being with my mother’s final moment…, holding her hand with my son.., whom she had been waiting for two years…, made her the best medicine. Indeed. On her last day, her goal was filled with her first great grandson’s visit, my daughter's engagement, receiving her favorite boy’s massage,, (my son)…., and I was holding her hand. I wonder...., if my friends did not call me saying " just come back now, I know I am the only person who can say so straight." I believe it was God's guidance and voice.
Truth…., and listen to someone and something larger than you.
Every morning, I was picking up veggies from neighbor’s garden, cooking miso soup with fresh veggies and super reasonable price local ingredients. Wish I could have brought back to NY/ NJ. You know..., if we are lucky…, I can get a piece of Yuzu for $5.99 in NJ, so I have never imagine taking “ 柚子風呂 Yuzu in the hot tab.” Here in Nara, 3 pieces for 130 Yen ( about 90 cents) or…, my cousin gave me full bag of yuzu from his garden, said.., get more.
I think it was a gift from my mom...; I reunited with my very first cooking teacher and mom's best friend, Ms. Setusko Iwata. She said...., she will be giving me all her knowledge what she has been building up for past 50 years as a leading nutritionist and cooking instructor. How honor I am, I am sure my mom is smiling from heaven.
Now, here in NJ and NY, I am cooking and promoting authentic Japanese foods. I am adding lots to love Nara cuisine （大和郷土料理）to share with my community.
Yakuzen Cooking and Mindfulness class is coming soon. Stay tuned.
Love and Peace
Cook Well, Eat Well, Love yourself.