Author: italkyoutalk

[Easy English Blog] Early morning run

/ italkyoutalk

The weather was nice and spring-like a few days ago, so I got up early and went for a run. I usually run along the lake, but this time, I went running around the castle.

The castle is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles. It was built in 1607. It is a National Treasure. There were no people around, because it was early, and also because of Covid. There are not so many tourists in my city these days.

The air was fresh and cold, but it was sunny. The trees and ground were nice and green. A few weeks ago, everything was covered with snow.

I’m looking forward to spring. I usually go running at sunset, but I think I’ll go out running in the morning more often. The city looks beautiful in the morning light.

By Heather @ I Talk you Talk Press

[Easy English Blog] Plum blossoms

/ italkyoutalk

The plum blossoms are starting to bloom in my city. Here is a famous Japanese poem about the beautiful plum blossom!

「東風 吹かば　匂ひをこせよ　梅の花　主なしとて　春な忘れそ」

“When the east wind blows

let it send your fragrance,

oh plum blossoms;

although your master is gone,

do not forget the spring.”

Sugawara no Michizane

[Easy English Blog] COVID19

/ italkyoutalk

How is the COVID19 situation in your town or city? Here, in rural Japan, it is not so bad. We have had about 200 cases in total in our city. Tokyo has had a lot of cases, but here, there are few people, so the numbers are not very high.

Even so, we take precautions when we go out. We wear masks, and disinfect our hands when we go into shops or other places. There is disinfectant at the entrance of most public places.

Some countries and cities have had a “lockdown”, and people’s movements are restricted. We haven’t had a lockdown in our city. People are living their lives as normal. I went to a cafe for lunch yesterday, and it was full. Some people are avoiding going out at night though. I haven’t been out at night for a long time. We have also been told not to make unnecessary trips to other prefectures. I am looking forward to the day when the world gets back to normal.

By Heather @ I Talk You Talk Press