2024年12月18日
Wool
Hello everyone, Benson here. December is going by fast, how is everyone doing? I hope everyone has found time to have some fun and relax this month. Now that we are deep in the month of December, I’m sure the cold weather is setting in for most people. I don’t get cold because I’m an indoor cat from Canada, but I hear that wrapping yourself in wool is a good way to keep warm!
There’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a thick woolen sweater or blanket in December. The cold, biting air outside makes the warmth of wool feel extra comforting. I love the texture of wool, its natural weight, and the way it insulates without making you feel overheated. Whether it’s a hand-knitted scarf or a cozy wool throw, these items become winter essentials. Wool has been a staple for centuries, offering both practicality and style. December is the perfect time to appreciate the simple luxury of woolen items, as they bring both warmth and comfort during the coldest days. So let’s all raid our local clothing stores and buy some wool this December! Take care and see you next time.
There’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a thick woolen sweater or blanket in December. The cold, biting air outside makes the warmth of wool feel extra comforting. I love the texture of wool, its natural weight, and the way it insulates without making you feel overheated. Whether it’s a hand-knitted scarf or a cozy wool throw, these items become winter essentials. Wool has been a staple for centuries, offering both practicality and style. December is the perfect time to appreciate the simple luxury of woolen items, as they bring both warmth and comfort during the coldest days. So let’s all raid our local clothing stores and buy some wool this December! Take care and see you next time.
2024年12月11日
Baking
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is your December going? I hope it’s going well and that you are enjoying the crisp, cold air outside. I’m definitely having a great time in December, frolicking in the snow dunes of my mind. However, all that frolicking has me hungry now and what better way to satisfy your hunger than to engage in some December baking!
As the cold sets in, December becomes the perfect month for baking. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cookies or a giant loaf of bread warming up the house. I always think that if I bake enough large loaves of bread, maybe I can save on my heating cost at home. The simple act of baking feels comforting, offering warmth not just from the oven, but from the shared joy of creating something delicious. I’m not sure who I would share it with, but it’s joyful for sure! Whether it’s classic holiday treats or something new, baking in December brings a sense of home and togetherness. I always find myself turning to my favorite recipes this time of year, filling my kitchen with the sweet aromas of baked goods. Let’s all get to excessive holiday baking! Take care, see you next time.
As the cold sets in, December becomes the perfect month for baking. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked cookies or a giant loaf of bread warming up the house. I always think that if I bake enough large loaves of bread, maybe I can save on my heating cost at home. The simple act of baking feels comforting, offering warmth not just from the oven, but from the shared joy of creating something delicious. I’m not sure who I would share it with, but it’s joyful for sure! Whether it’s classic holiday treats or something new, baking in December brings a sense of home and togetherness. I always find myself turning to my favorite recipes this time of year, filling my kitchen with the sweet aromas of baked goods. Let’s all get to excessive holiday baking! Take care, see you next time.
2024年12月04日
Lights
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was everyone’s November? Welcome to December! It’s the last month of 2024, isn’t that amazing? Another year of accomplishing all our goals and overachieving to the best of our ability. I’m almost certain that is the case for everyone here. What are some things you are looking forward to in December? Winter festivals? Spotting Santa Claus? I’m sure there are a lot of things to do in December for everyone.
One of the things I look forward to most in December is the appearance of winter lights. As the days get darker, the twinkling lights that decorate homes and streets bring a sense of warmth and wonder to the cold nights. There’s something magical about walking through a neighborhood lit up with sparkling lights, especially when the first snow begins to fall. These lights seem to symbolize hope and celebration, reminding us that even in the darkest months, there’s beauty to be found or something like that. Who knows, but I’m sure it never fails to lift my spirits during the long winter evenings. How about you? Do you like staring into the depths of a million different lights swirling in front of your face? Take care everyone, see you next time!
One of the things I look forward to most in December is the appearance of winter lights. As the days get darker, the twinkling lights that decorate homes and streets bring a sense of warmth and wonder to the cold nights. There’s something magical about walking through a neighborhood lit up with sparkling lights, especially when the first snow begins to fall. These lights seem to symbolize hope and celebration, reminding us that even in the darkest months, there’s beauty to be found or something like that. Who knows, but I’m sure it never fails to lift my spirits during the long winter evenings. How about you? Do you like staring into the depths of a million different lights swirling in front of your face? Take care everyone, see you next time!
2024年11月27日
Layering
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was everyone’s November? I hope you all had a great month and accomplished everything you set out to do. I know I definitely have because I like accomplishing my own things that are important to me.
As November cools down, it’s officially time to master the art of layering. What is layering? It means to wear different layers or “levels” of clothing on top of each other to stay warm. I love how this month invites us to get creative with our wardrobes, mixing textures and pieces to stay warm while looking stylish. Light sweaters, scarves, and jackets become essential, and there’s something comforting about wrapping up in layers as the temperature drops. November’s weather can be unpredictable—mornings might be freezing, while afternoons warm up—so layering offers the perfect solution. The beauty of this month is that fashion becomes both practical and fun, allowing us to enjoy the changing season in comfort. See you all next month, take care!
As November cools down, it’s officially time to master the art of layering. What is layering? It means to wear different layers or “levels” of clothing on top of each other to stay warm. I love how this month invites us to get creative with our wardrobes, mixing textures and pieces to stay warm while looking stylish. Light sweaters, scarves, and jackets become essential, and there’s something comforting about wrapping up in layers as the temperature drops. November’s weather can be unpredictable—mornings might be freezing, while afternoons warm up—so layering offers the perfect solution. The beauty of this month is that fashion becomes both practical and fun, allowing us to enjoy the changing season in comfort. See you all next month, take care!
2024年11月20日
Indoors
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everyone doing? Are you all having fun in November so far? I’m sure everybody is finding ways to enjoy November and maximize their full potential.
Let’s talk about bringing October into November, in a manner of speaking. November offers a wonderful opportunity to embrace rustic autumn décor inside your home. As the vibrant colors of October give way to more muted tones outside, people love bringing the warmth of nature indoors. Simple touches like pinecones, dried leaves, and wooden accents create a cozy, natural aesthetic that feels just right for this time of year and perfect for your basic social media posts of choice. November’s earthy tones—browns, soft yellows, and muted oranges—blend beautifully with the changing weather. This style of décor reminds you to appreciate the quieter, less showy aspects of autumn, celebrating the season's simplicity and warmth even as the cold begins to settle in. Take care all, see you next time!
Let’s talk about bringing October into November, in a manner of speaking. November offers a wonderful opportunity to embrace rustic autumn décor inside your home. As the vibrant colors of October give way to more muted tones outside, people love bringing the warmth of nature indoors. Simple touches like pinecones, dried leaves, and wooden accents create a cozy, natural aesthetic that feels just right for this time of year and perfect for your basic social media posts of choice. November’s earthy tones—browns, soft yellows, and muted oranges—blend beautifully with the changing weather. This style of décor reminds you to appreciate the quieter, less showy aspects of autumn, celebrating the season's simplicity and warmth even as the cold begins to settle in. Take care all, see you next time!
2024年11月13日
Transitions
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everyone’s November going? Have you all had the time to slow down and reflect? How about activities, has anybody done any fun activities in November so far? I know I’m enjoying November for sure.
November often feels like a transition month to me. It's not quite winter, but autumn's colorful display has mostly faded. However, I’ve come to appreciate this in-between time or transitional time. The bare trees, the crisp air, and the soft gray skies hold a quiet beauty that invites reflection and contemplation. It’s a time for many to prepare for the colder months, both physically and mentally. As I am a natural room heater, there isn’t much preparation for the cold on my end. However, I like to think of November as a moment to pause, to appreciate the subtlety of nature before the festive maelstrom of December arrives. It's the perfect time to find peace in simple things, like a warm blanket, a quiet walk, or a moment of stillness. Take care everyone and see you next time.
November often feels like a transition month to me. It's not quite winter, but autumn's colorful display has mostly faded. However, I’ve come to appreciate this in-between time or transitional time. The bare trees, the crisp air, and the soft gray skies hold a quiet beauty that invites reflection and contemplation. It’s a time for many to prepare for the colder months, both physically and mentally. As I am a natural room heater, there isn’t much preparation for the cold on my end. However, I like to think of November as a moment to pause, to appreciate the subtlety of nature before the festive maelstrom of December arrives. It's the perfect time to find peace in simple things, like a warm blanket, a quiet walk, or a moment of stillness. Take care everyone and see you next time.
2024年11月06日
Early Evenings
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was everyone’s October? I hope it was filled with fun activities and autumn joy. As we have moved into November, what are your thoughts on the month? Do you all have goals you want to accomplish in November? What are some things that you like to do in November? What are some things you like about the month of November?
One of the best parts of November for me is the return of long, cozy evenings. As the days grow shorter and the sun sets earlier, I find myself looking forward to settling in at home. While that is true for me regardless of any season, I think there is something comforting in arriving back home in the dark. The early darkness gives me a perfect excuse to switch on soft lighting that fills the room with warmth or just simply sit in darkness contemplating my fantastic choices. These early evenings provide a peaceful atmosphere to relax with a good book or movie. There's something comforting about the way November invites us to slow down and reflect. The crisp, cool air outside makes staying in feel like a reward, a chance to embrace the quiet moments of the season. I hope everyone finds time to slow down this month and enjoy November! Take care, see you all next time.
One of the best parts of November for me is the return of long, cozy evenings. As the days grow shorter and the sun sets earlier, I find myself looking forward to settling in at home. While that is true for me regardless of any season, I think there is something comforting in arriving back home in the dark. The early darkness gives me a perfect excuse to switch on soft lighting that fills the room with warmth or just simply sit in darkness contemplating my fantastic choices. These early evenings provide a peaceful atmosphere to relax with a good book or movie. There's something comforting about the way November invites us to slow down and reflect. The crisp, cool air outside makes staying in feel like a reward, a chance to embrace the quiet moments of the season. I hope everyone finds time to slow down this month and enjoy November! Take care, see you all next time.
2024年10月30日
Evenings in Fall
Hello everyone, Benson here. Welcome to the end of October! How was everyone’s October? How did you spend your month? Did you achieve all that you wanted to? Are any of you looking forward to November? I hope everybody is doing well!
There’s something serene about taking a walk in the early evening in October. The air is crisp, and the golden hour casts a soft glow over everything. As the sun begins to set earlier, these walks offer a chance to unwind after a busy day and enjoy the fresh air. The world seems quieter, and you can hear the rustle of the wind through the trees or the occasional crunch of leaves underfoot. These walks are a great way to clear your mind and take in the beauty of the season without the distractions of daily life. As we move closer to November, I hope everyone had a chance to reflect and enjoy the month of October. Take care, see you next time.
There’s something serene about taking a walk in the early evening in October. The air is crisp, and the golden hour casts a soft glow over everything. As the sun begins to set earlier, these walks offer a chance to unwind after a busy day and enjoy the fresh air. The world seems quieter, and you can hear the rustle of the wind through the trees or the occasional crunch of leaves underfoot. These walks are a great way to clear your mind and take in the beauty of the season without the distractions of daily life. As we move closer to November, I hope everyone had a chance to reflect and enjoy the month of October. Take care, see you next time.
2024年10月23日
Autumn Sounds
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everyone’s week going? Have you experienced anything new this October? Has anybody had any quality introspection time this fall? I want to focus on the sounds of October and fall in general this week.
One of the often-overlooked joys of October is the unique sounds that come with the season. The crunch of leaves beneath your feet, the wind rustling through the trees, and even the occasional call of migrating birds create an orchestra that belongs only to autumn. It’s the kind of soundscape that makes you pause for a moment and just listen. These natural sounds, coupled with the quiet that often accompanies cooler weather, offer a peaceful contrast to the more vibrant sounds of summer. The auditory beauty of autumn is as much a part of the season as its colors and temperatures. So next time you go for that crisp, autumn walk, just spend some time listening to the sounds around you before putting your headphones back in! Take care everyone, see you next time!
One of the often-overlooked joys of October is the unique sounds that come with the season. The crunch of leaves beneath your feet, the wind rustling through the trees, and even the occasional call of migrating birds create an orchestra that belongs only to autumn. It’s the kind of soundscape that makes you pause for a moment and just listen. These natural sounds, coupled with the quiet that often accompanies cooler weather, offer a peaceful contrast to the more vibrant sounds of summer. The auditory beauty of autumn is as much a part of the season as its colors and temperatures. So next time you go for that crisp, autumn walk, just spend some time listening to the sounds around you before putting your headphones back in! Take care everyone, see you next time!
2024年10月16日
October Palette
Hello everyone, Benson here. We are at the halfway point in October, how is everyone doing? Has anybody tried to establish a morning routine in the fall? Or perhaps some of you have ventured outside to enjoy the crisp autumn air during a walk. In any case, I hope everyone’s October is going smoothly so far!
One of my favorite things about October is the way nature transforms itself into an artist's palette. The deep greens of summer fade away, replaced by brilliant shades of gold, red, and orange. It’s like stepping into a painting each time I leave the house. Whether it’s a park or just a quiet street lined with trees, the changing colors never fail to take my breath away. It’s a reminder that life is always moving forward, evolving, and that there’s beauty in every stage of the journey. Every day, the world outside looks just a little bit different as the season unfolds. It helps with the introspection too, how can we all keep moving forward and evolving? I hope you all have a good rest of your week, take care and see you next time!
One of my favorite things about October is the way nature transforms itself into an artist's palette. The deep greens of summer fade away, replaced by brilliant shades of gold, red, and orange. It’s like stepping into a painting each time I leave the house. Whether it’s a park or just a quiet street lined with trees, the changing colors never fail to take my breath away. It’s a reminder that life is always moving forward, evolving, and that there’s beauty in every stage of the journey. Every day, the world outside looks just a little bit different as the season unfolds. It helps with the introspection too, how can we all keep moving forward and evolving? I hope you all have a good rest of your week, take care and see you next time!
2024年10月09日
Early Mornings
Hello everyone, Benson here. Did you all have a good first week of October? I’m really enjoying my October in Japan so far. Expanding a bit more on the ambiance of October from last week, I really enjoy early mornings in October. I wake up early in the mornings regardless, but it’s nicer to do so in the fall.
There's something magical about the early mornings in October. The world seems to wake up slower, with a soft light that hints at the cooler days ahead. As the sun rises, the golden hues of autumn leaves reflect a warm glow. It’s the perfect moment for a quiet cup of coffee or tea, listening to the rustle of the wind through the trees. For me, these quiet moments are precious—a time to reflect and appreciate the subtle beauty of the season. In the busyness of life, the calm of an early October morning can serve as a gentle reminder to slow down and breathe. I typically like to journal or practice some introspection in the early mornings and the specific ambiance of fall mornings add a lot to the experience. Let me know if any of you have a morning routine, especially for the fall season! Take care everyone.
There's something magical about the early mornings in October. The world seems to wake up slower, with a soft light that hints at the cooler days ahead. As the sun rises, the golden hues of autumn leaves reflect a warm glow. It’s the perfect moment for a quiet cup of coffee or tea, listening to the rustle of the wind through the trees. For me, these quiet moments are precious—a time to reflect and appreciate the subtle beauty of the season. In the busyness of life, the calm of an early October morning can serve as a gentle reminder to slow down and breathe. I typically like to journal or practice some introspection in the early mornings and the specific ambiance of fall mornings add a lot to the experience. Let me know if any of you have a morning routine, especially for the fall season! Take care everyone.
2024年10月02日
October is Crisp
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was everyone’s September? I hope it was a good month. Well, it’s October now! And with October here, we are deeper into the fall or autumn season. One of the things I’ve always liked about autumn is taking a walk in the crisper, cooler weather.
As the autumn season settles in, there's something comforting about the crisp, cool air of October. The days are shorter, and mornings often come with a light mist hovering over the ground. It's the perfect time to dig out those dusty, cozy sweaters and scarves that have been stored away during the summer months. I’m sure a lot of you probably love the feeling of wrapping up in a warm, oversized sweater while sipping on a hot beverage watching the golden leaves gently fall. There's an undeniable coziness that October brings, making it one of the best months for outdoor walks and fireside evenings. The shifting colors in nature seem to whisper that change is in the air, but it’s a peaceful transition, not a hurried one. What do you love most about October's ambiance? Hope everyone’s October starts off well, take care and see you next time.
As the autumn season settles in, there's something comforting about the crisp, cool air of October. The days are shorter, and mornings often come with a light mist hovering over the ground. It's the perfect time to dig out those dusty, cozy sweaters and scarves that have been stored away during the summer months. I’m sure a lot of you probably love the feeling of wrapping up in a warm, oversized sweater while sipping on a hot beverage watching the golden leaves gently fall. There's an undeniable coziness that October brings, making it one of the best months for outdoor walks and fireside evenings. The shifting colors in nature seem to whisper that change is in the air, but it’s a peaceful transition, not a hurried one. What do you love most about October's ambiance? Hope everyone’s October starts off well, take care and see you next time.
2024年09月25日
September Ends
Hello everyone, Benson here. Welcome to the end of September, that really flew by like an autumn breeze. Before September is over, maybe there are a few more activities to conquer and attend. After all, fall is a season filled with vibrant festivals and events that celebrate the harvest, culture, and community spirit.
Are there opportunities to visit pumpkin patches here? Back in Canada, there were numerous places where you could pick your own pumpkin at a local pumpkin patch. Explore the farm, enjoy hayrides, and capture memorable photos for your chosen social media platforms.
Fall is also a great time to go for a scenic drive. Perhaps go explore the countryside and admire the stunning fall foliage. Look for scenic drives or hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the changing leaves too!
Another activity that is popular during fall in general is creating fall crafts. Get creative with fall-themed crafts like making leaf rubbings, decorating pumpkins, or creating colorful fall wreaths. These activities are perfect for children and adults alike and there are so many ideas you could do with your friends.
I hope everybody had a lovely September, see you all next month. Take care.
Are there opportunities to visit pumpkin patches here? Back in Canada, there were numerous places where you could pick your own pumpkin at a local pumpkin patch. Explore the farm, enjoy hayrides, and capture memorable photos for your chosen social media platforms.
Fall is also a great time to go for a scenic drive. Perhaps go explore the countryside and admire the stunning fall foliage. Look for scenic drives or hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the changing leaves too!
Another activity that is popular during fall in general is creating fall crafts. Get creative with fall-themed crafts like making leaf rubbings, decorating pumpkins, or creating colorful fall wreaths. These activities are perfect for children and adults alike and there are so many ideas you could do with your friends.
I hope everybody had a lovely September, see you all next month. Take care.
2024年09月18日
Earth Tones
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everybody doing at the halfway point in September? I hope September has been a good month for everyone so far! As the temperature drops, it's time to update your wardrobe with cozy and stylish fall fashion, something that I have absolutely no expertise or sense of. Nonetheless, I want to talk about fall outfits, so here we go!
I imagine practicality should come first and I think embracing layering would be essential to a fall outfit. Layering is key to staying warm and fashionable in the fall. Combine sweaters, cardigans, and jackets with shirts, dresses, or jeans for versatile and stylish looks. Specifically, I would imagine knitwear to be quite cozy to wear in the fall. This could include knit sweaters, cardigans, and scarves. Chunky knits are a popular choice for a warm and stylish look.
What about colors? Fall is known for earthy tones, specifically warm, earthy tones. Incorporate shades of brown, orange, rust, and olive green into your wardrobe for a timeless and sophisticated look straight out of a department store magazine. What about plaid patterns? Plaid is a classic fall pattern that adds a touch of charm and warmth, although I suppose it's a year-round look for many.
By incorporating these fall fashion trends, you can create stylish and comfortable outfits that are perfect for the cooler weather or so I’m told. Have a good rest of your week, take care.
I imagine practicality should come first and I think embracing layering would be essential to a fall outfit. Layering is key to staying warm and fashionable in the fall. Combine sweaters, cardigans, and jackets with shirts, dresses, or jeans for versatile and stylish looks. Specifically, I would imagine knitwear to be quite cozy to wear in the fall. This could include knit sweaters, cardigans, and scarves. Chunky knits are a popular choice for a warm and stylish look.
What about colors? Fall is known for earthy tones, specifically warm, earthy tones. Incorporate shades of brown, orange, rust, and olive green into your wardrobe for a timeless and sophisticated look straight out of a department store magazine. What about plaid patterns? Plaid is a classic fall pattern that adds a touch of charm and warmth, although I suppose it's a year-round look for many.
By incorporating these fall fashion trends, you can create stylish and comfortable outfits that are perfect for the cooler weather or so I’m told. Have a good rest of your week, take care.
2024年09月11日
September Foliage
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was the start of September for everyone? Did anything exciting happen during the first week? Sometimes, we are off to the races in the beginning! September marks the arrival of autumn, a season renowned for its breathtaking foliage, crisp air, and cozy atmosphere. Perhaps we can try to embrace the beauty of fall and create lasting memories.
Back home in Canada, there is ample opportunity to explore the vibrant foliage during the fall season. Visiting most local parks or forests, you can witness the stunning transformation of leaves into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. I hear that’s also possible in Japan, so please take a leisurely hike, have a picnic amidst the colorful foliage, or simply admire the breathtaking scenery.
Are there fall festivals you can celebrate? Many communities back in Canada probably host fall festivals featuring pumpkin carving contests, hayrides, corn mazes, and delicious seasonal treats. I’m sure there are fall festivities here as well to experience the local culture and have a fun-filled day.
On the flip side, you could simply embrace the cozy indoors! Fall is the perfect time to create a cozy atmosphere at home with warm blankets, candles, and your favorite fall-themed decorations. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or apple cider, curl up with a good book, and watch a nice movie!
There are also many fall flavors to indulge in. Savor the delicious flavors of autumn with pumpkin spice lattes, apple pies, and roasted vegetables. You could also try exploring local farmers' markets for fresh produce, visit pumpkin patches, and create your own fall-inspired recipes. In any case, autumn offers a unique blend of beauty, warmth, and tranquility so I hope everyone can continue to embrace the season's charm, create lasting memories, and enjoy the simple pleasures of fall. Take care, see you all next time.
Back home in Canada, there is ample opportunity to explore the vibrant foliage during the fall season. Visiting most local parks or forests, you can witness the stunning transformation of leaves into vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. I hear that’s also possible in Japan, so please take a leisurely hike, have a picnic amidst the colorful foliage, or simply admire the breathtaking scenery.
Are there fall festivals you can celebrate? Many communities back in Canada probably host fall festivals featuring pumpkin carving contests, hayrides, corn mazes, and delicious seasonal treats. I’m sure there are fall festivities here as well to experience the local culture and have a fun-filled day.
On the flip side, you could simply embrace the cozy indoors! Fall is the perfect time to create a cozy atmosphere at home with warm blankets, candles, and your favorite fall-themed decorations. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or apple cider, curl up with a good book, and watch a nice movie!
There are also many fall flavors to indulge in. Savor the delicious flavors of autumn with pumpkin spice lattes, apple pies, and roasted vegetables. You could also try exploring local farmers' markets for fresh produce, visit pumpkin patches, and create your own fall-inspired recipes. In any case, autumn offers a unique blend of beauty, warmth, and tranquility so I hope everyone can continue to embrace the season's charm, create lasting memories, and enjoy the simple pleasures of fall. Take care, see you all next time.
2024年09月04日
September
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was everyone’s August? I hope it went well and that many of you got to experience new things despite the heat. I can’t believe it’s September already! September is a perfect time to plan a short getaway and reconnect with nature. There are probably numerous things that make for easy day trips that are enjoyable!
One such thing could be exploring a national park. Are Japan’s national parks renowned for their breathtaking beauty? I would venture a guess and say yes, but I haven’t been to all of them yet. National parks should offer breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about plants, animals, and the environment. Depending on circumstances, you could also pack a picnic lunch, explore the natural wonders, and create lasting memories together.
How about finding a local farm to visit? I would think some, if not many, farms offer educational tours and activities, allowing families and fascinated individuals to learn about agriculture and where their food comes from. Children can have fun petting animals, picking fruits and vegetables, and experiencing the beauty of rural life.
Autumn is also a good season to do some more hiking. Find a scenic trail in your area and enjoy a hike or bike ride together. Immersing in nature could offer a break from the daily routine and a chance to appreciate the fresh air and exercise!
Spending time in nature is supposedly a healthy and enriching experience for everyone, unless you’re an indoor cat like myself. So pack your bags, explore the local offerings, and enjoy a fun and refreshing day trip. Take care, see you next week.
One such thing could be exploring a national park. Are Japan’s national parks renowned for their breathtaking beauty? I would venture a guess and say yes, but I haven’t been to all of them yet. National parks should offer breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about plants, animals, and the environment. Depending on circumstances, you could also pack a picnic lunch, explore the natural wonders, and create lasting memories together.
How about finding a local farm to visit? I would think some, if not many, farms offer educational tours and activities, allowing families and fascinated individuals to learn about agriculture and where their food comes from. Children can have fun petting animals, picking fruits and vegetables, and experiencing the beauty of rural life.
Autumn is also a good season to do some more hiking. Find a scenic trail in your area and enjoy a hike or bike ride together. Immersing in nature could offer a break from the daily routine and a chance to appreciate the fresh air and exercise!
Spending time in nature is supposedly a healthy and enriching experience for everyone, unless you’re an indoor cat like myself. So pack your bags, explore the local offerings, and enjoy a fun and refreshing day trip. Take care, see you next week.
2024年08月28日
Summer?
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everyone doing so far? Has August been a good month for you? August signifies the end of summer break for many, and the excitement (or perhaps some trepidation) of returning to school for students. How do you all prepare for the transitioning of seasons? Do you do anything specific to make the transition smooth and enjoyable?
For many, they often embrace a shopping spree right on the cusp of the season change. For students, there would often be a shopping trip to pick out new school supplies. But also for everyone in general, this might be a good time to stock up on stationery such as colorful notebooks, fun pens and pencils, and maybe even backpacks. Fresh supplies can spark excitement and a sense of readiness for learning adventures in the fall season!
For others, they also might revamp their workspace. Perhaps you can finally create a designated study area at home, which could be a quiet corner in a bedroom or a dedicated space in a shared living area. For many, the fun part would be to personalize it with a comfortable desk, good lighting, and organizational tools like shelves and bins. After all, a well-organized workspace could foster focus and productivity in the fall season!
But how about everyone else? How do you all make the end of summer fun? Do you all have any traditions you like to do? I hope everybody’s August was great and see you all next month. Take care.
For many, they often embrace a shopping spree right on the cusp of the season change. For students, there would often be a shopping trip to pick out new school supplies. But also for everyone in general, this might be a good time to stock up on stationery such as colorful notebooks, fun pens and pencils, and maybe even backpacks. Fresh supplies can spark excitement and a sense of readiness for learning adventures in the fall season!
For others, they also might revamp their workspace. Perhaps you can finally create a designated study area at home, which could be a quiet corner in a bedroom or a dedicated space in a shared living area. For many, the fun part would be to personalize it with a comfortable desk, good lighting, and organizational tools like shelves and bins. After all, a well-organized workspace could foster focus and productivity in the fall season!
But how about everyone else? How do you all make the end of summer fun? Do you all have any traditions you like to do? I hope everybody’s August was great and see you all next month. Take care.
2024年08月21日
The Books
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everybody’s August going? I hope you’re all having some August fun! Speaking of fun, summer is a fantastic time to encourage the love of reading. Why? Because nothing looks more sophisticated than stunning summertime IG posts of you sitting in front of a flower-filled park with a book in hand. Oh, and also the many stories and lessons you can learn from a good book too. I’m sure there are many ways to make the most of summer reading and nurture a lifelong passion for books:
One of the best things to do is to find a nice, local library to spend the day in. Visit your local library and explore the vast sections of books to dive into. Librarians are also experts at recommending books based on your interests if you’re having trouble finding a good book. Part of the joy of going to a library is to discover the many books and other delights it can offer in terms of reading.
Thinking back to the rainy day fort idea from last month, you can also create a cozy reading nook at home with comfortable pillows and blankets. Set aside dedicated reading time each day, even if it's just for 15-20 minutes! Make reading a shared experience by reading a book you enjoy aloud together with your cat.
I also love acknowledging and rewarding my reading progress, maybe some of you can try that too. Create a reading chart to track completed books or offer small incentives for reaching milestones, like adopting a new cat after completing ten books. At the end of the year, you can look at all your reading milestones by compiling your data into easy to digest charts and graphs, which is often highly satisfying to simply stare at. In any case, I hope some of you can increase your reading this summer and develop a lifelong love for the written form. Until next time, take care everyone.
One of the best things to do is to find a nice, local library to spend the day in. Visit your local library and explore the vast sections of books to dive into. Librarians are also experts at recommending books based on your interests if you’re having trouble finding a good book. Part of the joy of going to a library is to discover the many books and other delights it can offer in terms of reading.
Thinking back to the rainy day fort idea from last month, you can also create a cozy reading nook at home with comfortable pillows and blankets. Set aside dedicated reading time each day, even if it's just for 15-20 minutes! Make reading a shared experience by reading a book you enjoy aloud together with your cat.
I also love acknowledging and rewarding my reading progress, maybe some of you can try that too. Create a reading chart to track completed books or offer small incentives for reaching milestones, like adopting a new cat after completing ten books. At the end of the year, you can look at all your reading milestones by compiling your data into easy to digest charts and graphs, which is often highly satisfying to simply stare at. In any case, I hope some of you can increase your reading this summer and develop a lifelong love for the written form. Until next time, take care everyone.
2024年08月14日
Aviation
Hello everyone, Benson here. How is everyone’s August going so far? I hope it’s been a fun start to your August. Continuing thematically (loosely, I might add) from last week, it seems that August 19th is known as National Aviation Day. National Aviation Day celebrates the wonders of flight and also commemorates the birthday of Orville Wright, one of the pioneers of aviation. I think this day would provide an interesting opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the history, technology, and impact of air travel on our world.
Are there any popular air and space museums to visit here in Japan? Many aviation museums showcase historical aircraft, space exploration exhibits, and interactive displays, which would be interesting to both see and touch. You can learn about the evolution of flight technology, but I wonder how aviation museums here would be different from those around the world.
I also think visiting airports would be an interesting way to spend the day. Many airports offer tours and observation areas where you can witness the hustle and bustle of airplanes taking off and landing. It's a fascinating way to see the behind-the-scenes operations of air travel and appreciate the complex logistics involved. Of course, I’m from Toronto, where the airport is about as exciting as a piece of bread, but I’m sure there are fascinating airports around the world.
There are also numerous documentaries which explore the history of aviation, from early attempts at flight to the development of modern jetliners. These films offer insightful perspectives and stories about the pioneers, engineers, and pilots who have shaped the world of air travel. National Aviation Day allows us to appreciate the remarkable advancements in flight technology and the impact it has had on our world. Explore the resources and activities available, and celebrate the awe-inspiring journey of human flight. Until next time, take care everyone.
Are there any popular air and space museums to visit here in Japan? Many aviation museums showcase historical aircraft, space exploration exhibits, and interactive displays, which would be interesting to both see and touch. You can learn about the evolution of flight technology, but I wonder how aviation museums here would be different from those around the world.
I also think visiting airports would be an interesting way to spend the day. Many airports offer tours and observation areas where you can witness the hustle and bustle of airplanes taking off and landing. It's a fascinating way to see the behind-the-scenes operations of air travel and appreciate the complex logistics involved. Of course, I’m from Toronto, where the airport is about as exciting as a piece of bread, but I’m sure there are fascinating airports around the world.
There are also numerous documentaries which explore the history of aviation, from early attempts at flight to the development of modern jetliners. These films offer insightful perspectives and stories about the pioneers, engineers, and pilots who have shaped the world of air travel. National Aviation Day allows us to appreciate the remarkable advancements in flight technology and the impact it has had on our world. Explore the resources and activities available, and celebrate the awe-inspiring journey of human flight. Until next time, take care everyone.
2024年08月07日
Cats Again
Hello everyone, Benson here. How was everybody’s July? I hope it was good or at least, meaningful in your own way. Now that July is gone, we shift our attention to the month of August. Recently, the algorithmic overlords have informed me that August 8th is International Cat Day! It’s a day dedicated to appreciating the unique bonds we share with our feline companions. Cats bring joy, amusement, and purrs into many lives, including my own.
Assuming you’d like to partake in celebrating International Cat Day with your feline friends and feline humans, here are some interesting celebrations I have read about. The most common category would be ways to shower your cats with love. You can allocate more time to cuddle and play with them. Of course, any cat owner will know that cats will choose when to cuddle with you, often in the middle of your sleep, but that’s OK! Sometimes, we should initiate with our feline companions too. Another one would be to host a surprise party for your cat. Break out the party hats and surprise your cats with a new gift, such as introducing new cat enrichment activities by building them a new perch or providing a new spot by the window for them to observe their prey. Finally, I would definitely recommend chatting with your cat more. They have very interesting opinions on the world and you should definitely try to set aside more time to chat with your cat. Maybe even start a podcast with your cat, that would be a great record for posterity.
Whether you're a seasoned cat owner or just starting your journey with a feline friend, International Cat Day is a reminder to cherish the special bond we share with these independent and often affectionate creatures. Take care all, see you next week.
Assuming you’d like to partake in celebrating International Cat Day with your feline friends and feline humans, here are some interesting celebrations I have read about. The most common category would be ways to shower your cats with love. You can allocate more time to cuddle and play with them. Of course, any cat owner will know that cats will choose when to cuddle with you, often in the middle of your sleep, but that’s OK! Sometimes, we should initiate with our feline companions too. Another one would be to host a surprise party for your cat. Break out the party hats and surprise your cats with a new gift, such as introducing new cat enrichment activities by building them a new perch or providing a new spot by the window for them to observe their prey. Finally, I would definitely recommend chatting with your cat more. They have very interesting opinions on the world and you should definitely try to set aside more time to chat with your cat. Maybe even start a podcast with your cat, that would be a great record for posterity.
Whether you're a seasoned cat owner or just starting your journey with a feline friend, International Cat Day is a reminder to cherish the special bond we share with these independent and often affectionate creatures. Take care all, see you next week.
