The first 3 days...

Before the dawn around 6:45 on the first day of the year 2018, I finished the radio exercise in the park as a routine. And I remained there waiting for the first Sunrise of the year. At first, I saw few at the view point, but later many came to see it. 

The Sunrise was scheduled to come out at 7:05 then , but it took 10 min. more to bring us the amazing light over some clouds. With patience in chilly morning air, we finally could see the first Sunrise.

I heard a group of people making a toast for the beginning of the year enjoying the first brightening Sunrise. They sounded very joyful and fun with laughter. When I passed the group by, one elder guy in the group invited me to make a toast together. He was already a bit drunk and kept smiling and laughing. 

An unexpected treat of Japanese boile “Sake” warmed me up, and made me feel like a fortunate accident.

As one of the Japanese traditional manners on the New Year’s Day, I went to a shrine in my town to show my gratitude for the previous year ‘s mercy and grace, and to ask for the same in this year as well.

A little by little, my new year is starting, and I went to work for my first shift in this year.

P

On the 2nd of January, we had a full moon at 11:24 in the morning. Of course, we could not observe it in the day time, but in the evening, a huge full moon so called "Super Moon" came out in the eastern sky.

I was already at home to prepare for the dinner that night. Soon after I noticed the moon, tried to take a photo with my white dragon. White and White. Blank innocent color asking the moon to take all the unnecessary things out of my life.

On the 3rd of January, I was off. I went to see my parent and an elder couple who has been taking care of me since my childhood for the New Year's greeting. I spent more time with the couple getting a treat of "Osechi Ryori", the festive food for the New Year with a glass of "Sake".

Then I went to my favorite place, "Kazefuki Iwa" in Kobe for a short trekking. This place has been a spacial place for me since my child. Especially after grown up, I often come here every time I need to feel some refreshment. In ancient era, this place and area was allegedly considered as a sacred place for worshiping the God, and some huge stones which must've been used for ritual prayers can be still found in the area.

Welcomed by the God with some amazing snow at first, I saw an amazing blue sky when I get to the point (477m). On the way back, my foot steps were so firm and fast. I'm sure that I recharged the energy.

My first three days were something like that. Very peaceful and relaxing start!

Wishing my New Year much brighter ever...

Masami