In Japan, gathering to enjoy the beauty of the seasons—like cherry blossoms in spring and the full moon in autumn—is a centuries-old tradition. At this event taking place under the August full moon in downtown Fargo, North Dakota, I will share music of the koto (Japanese zither), a Japanese folk dance and a reading from my re-released memoir, The Same Moon: a Young Woman’s Season … Continue reading Moon viewing/book event — Thursday, 8/27/26
My long overdue confession that I’ve mostly abandoned this blog and am writing about life in the sandwich generation … over at Substack … Continue reading I’m in Sandwich Season now
Halloween seemed a world away when I lived in rural Japan in the 1990s. A friend of mine knew about it, though, and in an effort to help me feel at home, she corralled a few neighborhood kids to dress up and visit my door. They arrived, giving each other looks that said, “We didn’t sign up for this, and we don’t know what we’re … Continue reading Halloween in Japan: 2024
(Nov. 14, 2023) Looking for holiday gifts with a touch of Japanese flair? The Same Moon store is open — with 50% off apparel today only. Continue reading Same Moon apparel is 50% off today
Sometimes special things end up in the landfill. And it’s OK. Continue reading It’s all landfill-bound anyway
A couple of memories from my recent trip to Japan — the blazing fast bullet train and ways strangers reached out to connect with me Continue reading Connecting with strangers
I had wanted one of these gizmos for years but had been unable to get buy-in from my better half. Then, on Black Friday, my brother texted me: Amazon was selling the model his family has for nearly 75 percent off. Could we afford not to buy it? A few days later, the package arrived on our doorstep. My very own robot vacuum. For me, … Continue reading Be careful what you wish for
What to do when you’ve collected lots of stories but lack a clear focus? Continue reading Writing prompt: the back cover
Podcaster Amy Chavez drew me out on several experiences I’ve written about for her latest podcast, “The Female Experience Teaching in Japan.” Continue reading “The Female Experience (in Japan)” — podcast
I’m feeling thankful for the power of Zoom, which connected me for a conversation with a writer I admire … on the other side of the world. Continue reading Connected by Moon and Zoom
Sarah Coomber 