Entry #36: 2022 January 31

It’s the last microseason of Winter! We are about to enter a whole new chapter. I wonder what awaits all of us.

Last week I had the opportunity to meet with several inspiration people, including a doctor who I’ve been friendly with for the past several years. He is a doctor who after decades in his profession, now spends his days sharing with as many people who will listen that it’s our choices around the food system that service our health. Right before turning 60 years old, he moved away from the city, to deep into the countryside, to serve as an example.

♡ momoko

Microseasonal Stars

January 30 - February 3

Winter > Deep Chill > Chicken Begin to Lay Eggs

What are you caring for during this coldest time of the year?

Entry #35: 2022 January 25

The other day I visited a watoji artisan. Japanese book binding that, if I am allowed to simplify, is making a vertical line of holes and binding with thread using one of many different threading patterns. I am looking to create a physical microseasonal journal for everyone and thought that a watoji method might be perfectly appropriate. That said, the hand work is extremely detailed, and each thread and paper must be selected with care as not everything suits watoji. The binding method also requires special protective edges, as well as a paper folding technique. I’m still currently in the “educating myself” phase, but it would be such a pleasure if I’m able to bring a microseasonal journal in this way.

♡ momoko

Microseasonal Stars

January 25 - 29

Winter > Deep Chill > Mountain Stream Freezes

Is stillness comfortable for you?

Entry #34: 2022 January 20

I was speaking with a girlfriend on the phone the other day. My college roommate. Catching up after not speaking for a good year+. And during that call, I mentioned Seijinshiki. Coming of Age Ceremony. In English, it sounds like a tribal ceremony of yesteryear. Each city across the country gathers those who are turning 20 years old that year, to celebrate their entry into adulthood. Currently the legal age to drink, smoke tobacco, become a political candidate, sign legal papers, get married, are all 20 years old. While there is much responsibility suddenly placed on these newly converted “adults”, the ceremony itself is an opportunity to get dressed up and see childhood friends. I realize more and more than “Japanese” is a tribe unto itself. A country without a said religion, this identity is the religion.

♡ momoko

Microseasonal Stars

January 20 - 24

Winter > Deep Chill > Butterbur Buds

While others are still hibernating, what have you secretly bloomed?