This is my 23rd Yamaha drum lesson at Fujisawa Yurindo. I’m continuing to practice the theme song from “Taiyo ni Hoero.” I got into the beat and developed a cool rhythm, which I enjoyed playing. Next time I’ll play at a faster tempo. (Michiko)
Today was my regular appointment with my family doctor. I also had my annual bone density test. The results showed that my bone density was equal to or greater than the average for young adults, and 120% higher than that of people my age. It was an increase from last year. I can only think that it’s thanks to my mysterious cooking skills. My hip joints and heart are slightly weak, so I don’t do strenuous exercise and I don’t take any bone medication. I’m sure playing instruments is beneficial for both my body and mind. (Michiko)
Setsubun is a day to pray for good health and to ward off evil spirits for the year ahead. “Ogres out, fortune in!” I don’t have the custom of eating ehomaki, so I made this with pancake. I added seasoned fish pink flakes and pickles. (Michiko)
February is a month of both cold and warm days. I love February, a month of patience and hope. I’m not looking forward to spring yet. I’m going to enjoy our birthday month. (Michiko)
The Beatles’ “Yesterday” has a striking beauty within its simple melody. I added some memorable short phrases and chords to fit in between the phrases in the song, and played it on the violin for fun. (Michiko)
My little dog Matcha is not so little anymore! She is now 7 months old and my wife and I took her in for a check up and she is now 20 pounds or about 8 kilos! According to the Doctor she will not get much bigger but she may get a little heavier. Her baby teeth are gone and now replaced by adult teeth. She still likes to use my arms as chew toys but she seems to be a little bit more controlled. I still have not heard her bark!
After quickly boiling the bell peppers and lettuce, I mixed them with Moromi-miso and sesame seeds. Lately, I’ve been preferring salads with cooked vegetables over raw ones. (Michiko)
I made rice balls with spinach, seasoned fried tofu, burdock, sesame, and sushi vinegar. I added seasoned fish pink flakes and salted kelp a little. I also made a delicious Tamago-yaki (Japanese rolled omelet). It’s a picnic at home. (Michiko)
I made a warm vegetable soup with minced chicken, ginger, onion, carrot, napa cabbage, and celery. I seasoned it with sake lees, miso, bonito and kelp. For dinner, I’ll add udon noodles and simmer them. (Michiko)