ネイティブが教える英会話のジェムスクール☆Teachers☆

Over the weekend, I heard the first ho-hokekyo of the season—the song of the uguisu (Japanese bush warbler). As I walked through the park, I spotted the soft pink and white ume (plum blossoms) starting to bloom, a sure sign that spring is on its way.

In Japan, uguisu and ume are a classic pair. The phrase “ume ni uguisu” (梅に鶯) means a perfect match, just like the bird’s song and the early spring blossoms. Though the uguisu is small and shy, its voice is strong and clear, bringing life to the quiet winter landscape.

Hearing its call felt like nature’s gentle reminder—spring is coming! Have you heard the uguisu yet this year?

  

This weekend while I was at Lawsons I discovered a different kind of chocolate treat. I almost couldn't believe it, but I found corn chocolate! At first I was thinking who would even buy that? But I'm from Indiana which means I can tell when corn is good or bad. People who have lived in Indiana for a long time have strong opinions on corn, so I had to try this snack for myself. Honestly it tastes like a rice crispy with white chocolate, and the corn taste is very subtle. I probably won't buy it again, but at least I know now. Interesting find.