I think this is what you call a happy day

I think this is what you call a happy day

The weather was nice today, and I spent a fulfilling holiday in Yokohama with my son's family.

First, we all went to Minatoan, a restaurant recommended by my son that serves delicious soba noodles.
Enjoying the smooth-textured soba while gathered around the table with smiles is a feast in itself.
It was delicious, the restaurant had an irori hearth which gave it a great atmosphere, and the staff were kind and warm; I've become a big fan.

The time spent eating delicious food together and laughing while saying "This is delicious."
I think such casual moments are the truly rich times that remain in one's heart.

After lunch, we headed to Yamashita Park.

On the way, we passed by the Yokohama Archives of History, which we couldn't stop by when my nephews visited the other day.

I felt deeply moved to see the "Tamakusu" tree with my own eyes, which is depicted in the paintings from the time the port opened that I saw in my social studies textbook.
The moment when something you've seen in a book connects to reality is truly moving.

There were many flowers blooming on the path to the park, and the time spent walking through the lush green streets while feeling the richness of the season was very pleasant.

By chance, the luxury cruise ship Asuka III was also in port today, and I was captivated by its majestic appearance.
It was a happy coincidence to encounter a scene unique to the port.

We also went to visit the Hikawa Maru, which my grandson loves.

Holding his ticket carefully, his eyes shining as he looked around the ship, calling out "Everyone, come here!" was just adorable.
It was heartwarming to see him walking as if dancing, swaying from side to side and waving his hands, showing how excited and happy he was, and it kept me smiling the whole time.

Following behind him and exploring the ship together was truly fun, and I felt the joy of seeing the world through a child's eyes.
At this time of year, the ship was beautifully decorated with flowers, and we enjoyed the ship enveloped in the scent of flowers.

The Hikawa Maru is 96 years old this year.
It is said that even Charlie Chaplin was captivated by it.
Thinking of the Titanic, I toured every corner of the ship.
I was surprised at how much larger the interior was than it looked from the outside.

Yamashita Park was more crowded than usual, and while looking at the sea,
walking with family or dogs,
sitting on benches and talking,
lying on the grass reading books or napping,
gathering around street performers,
or admiring the flowers,
everyone seemed to be spending their time relaxing in their own way.

In the rose garden, I was enchanted by the elegant scents and gorgeous appearances.

Colorful flowers decorated the park, and as a flower lover, it was a sight that made me happy just to walk through.

A flower bed exhibition was also being held, with many flowers beautifully arranged.

It was a luxurious time to be able to slowly enjoy the scent of flowers, from the flowers in the city and the rose garden to the flower bed exhibitions in the park.


In the evening, the whistle of the Asuka III echoed across the seaside as it departed, and we all waved to see the ship off as it slowly left the port.

To be able to gather like this across three generations, eat together, and spend the same time with smiles on our faces.
I feel that being able to spend a casual holiday, while it may seem like something taken for granted, is actually very precious and something to be grateful for.

Lively voices.
My grandchild's smile, everyone's smiles.
An atmosphere of gentle consideration for one another.
Casual conversation.

Each and every one of those things was a moment that remained warmly in my heart.

And I am truly grateful to the mom who always comes with us.

For being naturally supportive.
For moving around so that everyone can spend time comfortably.
I have been helped by her presence many times.

Thank you.

It was a wonderful holiday where I could relax, surrounded by flowers, the sea, history, and the smiles of my family.

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