December 19, 2022

Dear Grandma Utako, 

How are things, Grandma?

Today, we had the first snow here! The wind was pretty strong and it was shaking the bamboo trees in front of our apartment quite hard.

Miss A was very curious to see the bamboos go back and forth as the wind blew! She even put her favorite stuffed animals on the railing right in front of the window to help them take a look at falling snow outside. That was very adorable. Even after the snow stopped, the stuffed animals were still looking outside. Even up until now. 

Oh yeah, I have been enjoying our life in a new place so far. As you know, we don't have any relatives, let alone acquaintances in this town we just settled in.

Since COVID-19 came into our lives, it is extra hard to connect with new people. People get hesitant to reach out, and masks literally have made our shyness even more shy ( I mean, generally speaking. I don't know about my shyness, really. I should learn to be a little more reserved, yes I know. )

HOWEVER, Grandma! There was a game changer for me!
It was a year-long storytelling event for parents and toddlers.

The families who got chosen by raffle can join this event. This event is run by a local volunteer group. We all get together at a local community center once or two times every month. There,  local "senpai/senior" mums  read storybooks, introduce old finger play songs, perform small theaters and more. Every month, they pick a theme based on the seasonal culture and tradition.

For example, the theme of the lastest event was Christmas. We sang Japanese Christmas songs, like あわてんぼうのサンタクロース,  the mums read a book from Guri Gura series, which there was Santa Claus. The mums even did a hand-bell performance, playing "Silent Night"!   

 You know, Grandma. There is an old lady who is around 90 years old and she always reminds me of you. Since I can't see you in person easily now, seeing this lady Mrs. K is somewhat comforting as if I get to see you. (Sorry, if this has made you jealous. But in fact, seeing her makes me miss you more, Grandma. )

So you can't imagine what this lady Mrs. K did to us in the last event.

SHE PRESENTED HER STORYBOOKS WITH ALL THE KIDS IN THE ROOM!!!
Can you believe that? I was truly touched by her generosity, kindness, and genuine love. And you know what? She didn't even tell it was her who did all the charity. 

I actually heard that from one of the senior mums I had happened to be talking with. She whispered with an wink, "If you take a look at the back of the front cover of the book, you will see her name." And there, a charming and sensitive handwriting with her name in Katakana.

You know, Grandma. I know it's a long way to go, but when I grow old, I want to be someone like her.
Someone who is reserved but full of love and compassion.
Especially this time of the year, after all these heartwarming events, I miss you a lot, Grandma.

Love,
Tomoko