This is Queen Peach, mother of Momo-chan whose slender sister is seen on this side. The latter had passed away one year after the photo below was taken. Mei-Shun heard it from mom recently, shocked so much. We have to be like 桜守=sakura-mori, gardeners who take care of famous cherry trees while growing descendants of current breeds to keep loved beauty for long time.
Mei-Shun practiced “Clair de Lune” by Debussy in the afternoon, wishing to see 十五夜 over such thick clouds. And it might work, when she drove to pick Shin up after dark, round silhouette of moon appeared for just a moment. Thanks a million, wind, though we have a slight chill with you.
Start of cherry blossom, represented by 染井吉野=somei-yoshino, was announced in Tokyo today. It is measured by sample trees selected all through Japan except for northern Hokkaido and southern Okinawa. Looking one of the most enjoyable jobs for the Meteorological Agency, they visit such designated sites everyday until 5-6 flowers are recognized fully open. And at home, Mei-Shun continues daily check on their garden princess. Please find narcissus knights all face toward her.
Following ume and daphne, here narcissus comes. Yesterday hit 20 degrees Celsius, today almost the same with stormy southern wind. Hello guys, nice to see you. Please take care, we are still in March.
She reminds Mei-Shun of her hospitalization last year — mom-in-law brought a little bouquet. When you cut garden flowers, they lose much energy and wilt immediately. We therefore make it a rule to keep them on the ground. Even so, sometimes a breach is imperative to help isolated family member enjoy one of her favorite.
Mei-Shun has found the best way to use “tarha”. It has quite stronger notes, might be better on handkerchiefs for example, according to Professor S. Yes, and another way seems to spray it onto after-bath goods including bathrobes, towels and hair turbans. Since we wash ourselves in the bathroom to prepare for a new day, that name sounds pretty right.
Our garden princess looks starting her preparation to come out. They say that cold winter allows Rosaceae plants including cherry, peach and pear to know clearly when to bloom on their buds. On the other hand, warm winter could keep them half-awake and half-asleep — meaning it all depends on each bud when to loose her petals.
Please take the most profound gratefulness of Mei-Shun, Professor S. This bottle accommodates a perfume from the Sultanate of Oman, called “tarha” meaning a bride’s veil in Arabic. Three respectful professors of the University of Tsukuba kindly held a birthday party for Mei-Shun last Saturday; January 13th on the lunar calendar. The same restaurant they met last year served two glasses of beer instead of wine.
Mei-Shun visited a beauty salon in Shinagawa. She enjoyed many plum trees in blossom along Joban Line. And on the way to the saloon, bright pink color jumped into her eyes — it is 河津桜=kawazu-sakura, a cherry breed which blooms in early spring. After the haircut, she met with Shin at a hotel which accommodates one of their favorite Japanese cuisine restaurant.
春一番, the first spring storm blew in Kanto area on Sunday. A plum tree in the “backyard” began to bloom little by little. You cannot see it from anywhere but our balcony. What a nice privilege we have!
meishunkikunoe 