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2/22/2026 Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics, A blog post from Japan
Here is a lightly polished version that keeps your voice, warmth, and reflective tone while smoothing flow and clarity: Hello from Kobe, Japan, Although Miho Takagi’s result in last night’s Milan–Cortina Olympics women’s 1500m speed skating was disappointing, I would like to close these two weeks by expressing my gratitude for the many dramatic and moving moments we witnessed. My applause goes not only to the medalists but also to those who did not reach the podium. I believe

Takeaki Iida


1/10/2026 Mr. Tsutomu Ando’s Solo Tenor Recital – Still Going Strong at 99
Now, in the alumni association of the company where I used to work, there is a gentleman named Tsutomu Ando, who will be celebrating his 99th birthday this year (according to the traditional Japanese age‑counting system). He holds a solo recital every few years as a hobby, and I recently received an invitation announcing that he will be giving a concert to commemorate his 99th birthday. I am once again amazed that there are such energetic elderly people. Although I worked in

Takeaki Iida


12/27/2025 Reflections on a Year of Change
Tête de veau, at a restaurant in Lyon, June 2025 Blog Update At the start of this year, I intended to update my blog regularly with personal stories and reflections. However, time seemed to slip by, and before I realized it, an entire year had passed without many posts. For those of you I haven't connected with in a while, I want to assure you through this blog that I am doing well. While there haven't been major changes in my life, I continue to cherish everyday moments and

Emi Igarashi / Editor
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