In Japan, the city is getting brighter and brighter in December with many Christmas lights. They are not natural beauty, but they still make me feel amazed. I really enjoy walking around the city at

Today we had a family gathering for my grandfather's 13th memorial service. In Japan, a memorial service is a time for family to come together and remember someone who has passed away. We also use

Yesterday morning, I went to bakery and bought some bread for breakfast. There is a bakery near my house that is very popular in the neighborhood. Even if you go around 7 a.m.,there's already a long

For people who work on weekdays, Friday is the last workday of the week. So in the evening, we feel a stronger wish to finish work early, and it feels great when it's finally done. I had au

Today I talked with my friend about our favorite foods. When I was a child, I could answer right away, but now it's much harder to choose. The question was:"What would you want to eat before you

It's getting colder in Japan, and I can really feel that winter is coming. My cold weather items are warm socks, a small heater, a stick-on heat patch, and a fleece jacket. I also like to drink hot

I have many books I want to read. At school I often borrow two books, and I also buy books on Kindle. Because I read several books at the same time, the school books reach their return date before I

Today I got a message from my niece and nephew saying they started the Advent calendar I sent them. They are in elementary school, and they are happily opening the doors and counting down to

Today I went to a big park near my home and enjoyed the fall leaves. The park was full of orange and yellow colors. There were boats, so I tried rowing one. To move the boat, you use two oars. I

Today I met a junior from my university for the first time in a while. The last time we met, she had been caught up in some trouble and was really struggling — not only mentally but also physically

Today I went to our company's other office. It's already cold in Japan, but I enjoyed walking while looking at the autumn leaves. When I walked fast, my body warmed up, so the cold actually felt just

I start my day with exercise every morning. It helps clear my mind and organize my thoughts. Thanks to this routine, I also sleep very well at night. I enjoy kickboxing the most. I wonder what kinds

Today, I went to my workspace in the evening and wondered if I should use the 3D printer or not. I could do it tomorrow, but if I do it today, I can change what I can do tomorrow. I can move forward

My name is Mariko, and I live in Japan. I'm study English because I hope to work in Canada in the future. So, I'm starting this English journal as a small step toward that goal. I want to improve my