In a previous post, I shared my struggles with the cold winter here in Japan. However, I must confess and add a little nuance to my perspective on winter in Japan.

In the Netherlands, I never liked winters because they were generally dark, wet, windy, and cold. Yet, back in Switzerland over 30 years ago, I remember winters being delightful, with pristine white snow, skiing holidays, and snowball fights with friends.

This morning, as I rose and peered outside our home, a wave of nostalgia and youthful sentiment washed over me. Our garden has truly transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland.

The simple joy that overcame me as I stepped outside, hearing the crunch of my footsteps in the snow, and witnessing the world draped in a pristine blanket of white was truly uplifting.

Even the biting cold, which used to bother me, seemed insignificant in the face of such serene beauty.

Interestingly, after being away from Switzerland for so long, I had forgotten just how enchanting snowy white winters can be.

#NostalgiaInSnow #WinterJoy

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This blog is for thoughtful adults who are starting again — in learning, creativity, or life — and want to grow steadily without noise or pressure.

Here you’ll find daily reflections and practical guides shaped by lived experience. The focus is on learning through doing: building consistency, adapting to change, and finding clarity in everyday practice.

The stories and guides here come from real processes — creative experiments, hands-on projects, life in rural Japan, working with nature, and learning new skills step by step. Nothing is rushed. Nothing is polished for performance. The aim is steady progress, honest reflection, and practical insight you can actually use.

If you’re curious about life in Japan, learning new skills at your own pace, or finding a calmer, more intentional way forward, you’re in the right place.

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