I don't feel like the new year's mood. - Dec. 29, 2023.

With only two days left in 2023, I still don't feel like the New Year is around the corner. This might be due to my thesis deadline looming in three weeks. I need to write the introduction and conclusion and translate everything into English. Working on this, I've realized that translating into English is challenging and more time-consuming than expected. But, I have no choice other than to proceed.

So, why do people feel the New Year approaching? Several reasons contribute to this feeling, such as long vacations, special TV shows, and parties with friends or family. Certain foods like mochi and osechi also evoke a sense of the impending New Year. Reflecting on my own experiences, I haven’t really participated in any New Year events since becoming a university student, so I rarely feel the festive spirit. As a student, every day feels like a holiday because we can manage our time freely. Additionally, I haven’t visited my parents’ home and have been working part-time during the holiday season. It's been about five years since I last felt the New Year spirit.

My love always emphasizes the importance of enjoying the four seasons and their respective events throughout the year. She believes it makes life more vibrant, lively, and special, and I think her perspective is wonderful. Next year, one of my goals is to enjoy the seasons and their events more fully.