My first tea ceremony experience

I joined tea ceremony which was held in English. Either in Japanese or in English, this was my first tea ceremony experience. Since I hate Japanese confectionaries, -I can’t eat sweet azuki bean paste, how poor Japanese I am!- I avoided the opportunity to attend tea ceremonies. Because I knew attendees must eat tea cakes and must appreciate them….
But at this class, we eat western cakes. I could appreciate it! (although still liquors are preferable than sweets for me) Everything happened in the ceremony was quite fresh and interesting for me. I learned how to appreciate everything (everything!) and got peace and comfort in my mind. Wow, Zen experience!?
Just one thing, I was surprised that we need to sip the tea. I know lots of tea ceremony lovers reading this blog. I would like to ask, doesn’t this embarrass you??

How to wear kimono coolly

Do you have ice pad in your area? These sheets are so useful to cool down the body when we wear kimono in the hot season. Usually it is put on fevered kid’s forehead. I wrap my upper arms with these sheets. I can’t stand without them in summer. Insert ice block between kimono and obi knot might be cooler but obi will get wet. Only with non-silk obi, you can try ice block on back.

Today’s ensemble is
Light brown; ojiya chijimi 50% hemp and 50% cotton
Light orange; Tale of Genji Evening glory sash
White; obi jime belt
Hmm it’s a bit colorless…