SUMMER

I love summer in Japan. Except the heat of course. And the humidity. But that's it.

I love the festivities, the families spending time together, hanabi, trips to the beach, etc. It's a whole lot different and feels so different from the way we spend our summers back home. It's usually vacations to the provinces, summer activities for kids, and trips to the mall to cool off. Although it's not as humid in Manila as it is here, I still love summer in Japan and here's why:

1. snowcones - I am now officially fond of snowcones. We don't have a lot of snowcones in Manila. The most popular summer food in Manila is halo-halo I suppose. And I love that as well but snowcones are just so fun to eat. And I love the bright colors. So yeah, as long as the summer heat is here, I suppose I might as well try all the flavors out there (well maybe except tea).

2. parasols - I just feel so feminine when I'm out walking with my pink parasol. It's just so pretty. We don't have parasols in Manila. An umbrella is an umbrella and you use one rain or shine. But here, it's wonderful to feel so dainty and girly with a frilly parasol. Well, if you're not sweating like a pig under the sun that is.

3. cicadas - The sound of the cicadas is another favorite of mine during the summertime. I never realized now much I loved hearing their chirps until they became quiet when autumn came the last time we were here. I didn't expect that and now, I intend to fully appreciate their music while it lasts.

4. yukata - I have yet to wear mine at a hanabi or matsuri but ever since I tried putting one on, I now fully appreciate this summer attire. Not only are they easier to wear than a kimono, they are colorful and fun to wear.

5. hats - This is another accessory that is not very popular in Manila. Which is pretty surprising since the Philippines is a tropical country and a lot of heads would appreciate a feminine hat. Anyway, I love how people so casually and prettily dons one on and how cute little girls look when I see them and their beribboned hats. It's just adorable.

6. hanabi and matsuri - I love how people get together to celebrate the summer. I love that despite the crowd, the effort and the trouble of getting to an event, people still bother to attend these to just keep their tradition going. And I love that I have been a part of this.