A Quiet New Year Moment

I received some very beautiful Japanese sweets.

A former student, who studied in my tea room for several years before moving far away, still thinks of me from time to time, and that makes me very happy.

They were higashi shaped like plum blossoms and pine trees.

In Japan, the plum is known as the first flower to bloom each year. It blooms even in the cold and snow, and its flowers are simple and beautiful.

Pine trees stay green all year round and show quiet strength and dignity.

Both are considered auspicious in Japan and are traditionally associated with the New Year.

I enjoyed them with a bowl of Matcha.

Thank you very much.