The lives of everyone around the world have been changed by the corona virus pandemic. The worries about getting sick, the disappointment of cancelled plans, and the boredom of staying home unexpectedly consumed our lives for a few months. While I am thankful that the virus was brought under control in Japan and the State of Emergency has been lifted, we can't really say that life has returned to normal. 

However, life does go on, even if we have to wear a mask and spray our hands with alcohol to participate in it. I am trying to make the best of it and have as much fun as I can in my free time, especially now that it's safer to take day trips. Recently, we took a trip to the pottery town of Shigaraki. Shigaraki is a very funny place to visit since there are statues of tanuki everywhere.

After seeing a museum exhibit about Lisa Larson, we had iced coffee and cake in a very unique coffee shop. This coffee shop used to be a noborigama (anagama kiln) and sitting inside was very naturally cool on a hot June day.

One the biggest plans for 2020 that was cancelled because of corona virus was our 25th wedding anniversary trip to Portugal. Since we can't mark this important event in our lives with a big trip or a party, my husband commissioned an artist to paint a picture of us. I love it! Don't you think it's funny?

Remember that no matter what life throws at you, you can always find a way to have some fun.