One of the joys of these chilly mornings is a warm soup. This morning, I had broccoli potage. I tried to recreate the taste I had at the race site at Yokota Air Base last month. I boiled large broccoli grown by a local farmer until it was tender, then added butter-fried onions, microwave-cooked potatoes, consommé base and milk. After blending it all together with a hand mixer, I seasoned it with salt and pepper to make a coarse potage. It's a "no-fail" recipe perfect for someone like me who is a bit lazy in the kitchen.

Now, last week was the 2025 Spring Gift Show.

I'm grateful to have met so many customers this time. Thank you so much!

It's been a long time since we had a steady stream of customers all the way until the evening of the last day.　It was such a pleasure to meet new clients, reconnect with long-time customers, and I feel so happy that the excitement erased my fatigue.

Since I started triathlons, I feel like my stamina has improved and my fatigue has decreased significantly. Last night was my twice-weekly swimming lesson. The lesson content was to master four swimming strokes, including the butterfly. I can't do the butterfly at all. I seem to be drowning every time, which brings laughs from everyone. But it's incredibly effective for the stiff shoulders from working on the computer. I enjoy moving my body, even if I'm not good at it. Now, instead of getting body treatments, sports bodywork has become my body maintenance. (laughs)

I think I'll be able to introduce my new petit gifts set in the next YOUYOUANG newsletter. Yesterday, I drew the picture to be used in the design. I will complete it soon so that everyone can see it.

It looks like the cold weather will continue for a while yet. Please stay warm and take care.