Tora-chan became very fluffy compared to her summer coat while Mikan-chan, kept in cotton wool, looks always the same. The former survives well in this frigid winter, cared with warm pads and a blanket in her bed at night. Good fight outside, Tora-chan. Good health inside, Mikan-chan.
Another director rushed to them, whispering to her colleague that she was Mei-Shu II, the youngest sister of late I. The told one flushed and murmured an apology. This happening made ties between Kikunoe directors stronger; Master Mei-Shu has succeeded her sister both in name and substance.
In preparation for 2004 Mei-Shu I commemoration stage, Mei-Shu II made a number of return trip to Tokushima. One day, a Kikunoe director, who did not recognize Mei-Shu II, asked her to play a supporting role. Surprised at her quick learning and fine performance, she told Master Mei-Shu that she danced very well.
Mei-Shun has prepared Oseibo, an year-end gift, for Master Mei-Shu. As to Japanese traditional lessons including 茶道, 華道, 書道 and 舞 of course, students are supposed to bring Ochugen (=a summer gift) and oseibo to their masters, aside from monthly lesson fees. Some people let cash play the role of such gifts, yet Mei-Shun prefers sweets-sake combination, loved so much by Mr. and Mrs. Master.
Hi, I’m Mikan. I love mom’s slippers! Mom is out right now, so my one-of-the-best bed is here. Oh, it’s sunny today. Purrrr …
This lovely piece of work by Kaori-san, illustrator Ms. KOGASHIWA, arrived from Kyoto. A gift to herself, Mei-Shun feels very happy. Shin also likes it, advising her to arrange a covering glass for good quality preservation. You are right. We wish you a Merry Christmas!
Mei-Shu II is 11 years younger than her late sister, who gave her severe lessons from early days. Ka-Shu at that time felt tired of it, fled alone to Tokyo. After marriage, she was only involved in housekeeping and rearing her three children. Many Kikunoe directors in Tokushima did not know their president had a sister good at dancing.
20 years ago, Mei-Shu II used to come home in Tsuchiura around 20:00, departing Machida before 17:00. That is why she always closed lessons with “good night” greetings to her students. Young power allowed her to endure such a hard task, she says with a smile.
Mikan-chan often checks up her realm, relaxed on the blanket. When other cats come into the garden, she takes a fighting pose with her tail kept in a horizontal line. Tora-chan might be included in such interlopers …
We have a ginkgo tree in the backyard. A little later than others in parks, it is turning into yellow these days. Fortunately, or unfortunately, “he” has no fruit of serious smell – that makes Mei-Shun happy but a little unhappy. She loves ginkgo nuts so much.
meishunkikunoe 