April Beginnings

2025 is over, just like that! ⌛

In Japan, the fiscal year starts on April 1st and ends on March 31st. This means that businesses, school years, and almost every aspect of life follow this system. My past year went by very quickly, and I noticed that with each school year, I became busier and busier.

2025 was indeed a tough year for me. I experienced several personal setbacks, as well as physical and mental burnout. My sister, Chloe, suggested that I take a break and visit my hometown in the Philippines for a bit of a “reset.”

So I followed her advice, booked a ticket in November, and flew to Manila on March 20th. I stayed there for a week, had dinners with some friends, went to the beach, and spent a few days bonding with Chloe and her cat, Axelle. It was a short trip, but definitely worth it.

Me and my sister at White Beach, Puerto Galera 💙

Back to School 💮

A few days after my vacation, I returned to work. On April 1st, we had our yearly Teachers’ Orientation Day, which included welcoming new teachers, discussing our contracts with supervisors, and planning for the school year. There were a whole bunch of both new and familiar faces.

I feel refreshed and re-energized, thanks to my short vacation.

A New Beginning Lies Ahead 🌸

Two weeks have passed, and we have completed our training sessions, short seminars, and orientation with the students. This time, I skipped the nomikai (drinking party) with the elementary school staff. Instead, I spent the evening with my husband, Shingo, at a nearby onsen. 

Peperu Onsen in Moseushi, Hokkaido

I had ginger pork, miso soup, rice, and kyabetsu no sengiri (shredded cabbage) for dinner. After that, we soaked in the onsen and relaxed. At that time, there were very few people in the restaurant and resting area, so we really enjoyed our quiet time together.

It was a rainy night, and although we got soaked on the drive home, our Friday night was very enjoyable.

Today is Sunday—cleaning day. I call it “Spring Cleaning.” I plan to declutter unwanted items, clean the usual spots (floors, furniture, rooms), and maybe redecorate some areas. I want to do this throughout the month, so each weekend I’ll spend a couple of hours cleaning until my spring cleaning is complete. 🎉

It’s a new life, with new challenges ahead. I hope it won’t be too rough! 2026, please be nice!