...I have a new FO to share: My Favorite Things Camisole No.4, a beginner-friendly camisole knitting pattern that turned out to be both simple and practical—one of my favorite recent makes! This camisole is perfect for layering over a t-shirt or under a jacket, making it a versatile piece for multiple seasons. The pattern is […]

...How do you set up your Traveler’s Notebook passport size? In this post, I’m sharing how I actually use mine in daily life—practical Traveler’s Notebook passport setup ideas based on what has worked for me, far beyond just decoration. From daily use to travel organization, these small notebooks are more useful than they look. This […]

...How do you set up your Traveler’s Notebook? There’s no single answer—and that’s what makes it so fun. If you’re searching for some Traveler’s Notebook setup ideas, I’m sharing how I currently use two of my regular-size notebooks to organize everything from craft projects to reading reflections. I own four regular-size and three passport-size Traveler’s […]

...Last winter’s brutal cold sent me on a mission: find a warm and simple balaclava knitting pattern that could keep my family cozy. While browsing patterns online, I came across one on Ravelry that immediately caught my attention—the FORMI Balaclava. It had a clean and minimal design that looked both practical and stylish. I was […]

...If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated with yarn slipping off your needles or your hands feeling sore after long knitting sessions, you’re not alone. After years of using steel knitting needles from Chiaogoo, I finally decided it was time to branch out and find something that could better suit my needs. Today, I’m sharing my […]

...After sharing my first and second Tokyo stationery hauls, I’m back with something different—but just as fun: my Japanese knitting tools haul from Yuzawaya Kamata. If you’re into knitting or crochet, this post might give you some ideas on what to check out on your next trip to Tokyo. Spoiler: Yuzawaya is huge, and I […]

...Following up on my first post in this Japanese stationery haul series, here’s part two! While the overall series focuses on my stationery shopping experience in Tokyo, this second post highlights Japanese planner accessories I picked up—practical tools and thoughtful finds for binder and journal lovers. Part one included an overview of the best stationery […]

...Tokyo is a dream destination for stationery lovers, and this Japanese stationery haul is packed with discoveries from some of the best stationery stores in Tokyo. From high-end shops in Ginza to hidden gems like 36 Sublo in Kichijoji, each stop in this Tokyo stationery shopping journey offered unique finds and memorable experiences. Whether you’re […]

...Tried multiple hole punches for ring binders? I did too! With so many options available, choosing the best hole punch for ring binders can be overwhelming. From single-hole punches to adjustable multi-hole models, each type serves a different purpose, and not all of them are created equal. Over the years, I’ve tested various hole punches, […]

...I’ve been using Pentel EnerGel for years, and while I love its smooth writing experience, the design wasn’t really my taste. Instead of constantly buying new ones, I wanted a sturdy barrel where I could simply replace the ink—specifically for black ink. Another limitation of EnerGel was its limited color options (black, red, and blue). […]

...Project Duration of Crochet Granny Square Cardigan: March 2024 – January 9, 2025 Linking Back: The Full Journey Before diving into the details, here are the previous posts that capture the evolution of this project: These posts will give you insight into the ups and downs I faced along the way. Now, let’s pick up […]

...Have you ever found yourself fumbling through a drawer full of washi tape rolls, wishing you could have your favorite designs at your fingertips wherever you go? If you’re a stationery enthusiast or a frequent traveler, maintaining an organized collection of washi tapes can significantly enhance your creative projects and journaling experience. That’s why I […]

...Continuing my Granny Square Cardigan Journey: If you missed the beginning, check out my first post here. I’ve been working on creating a crochet granny square cardigan, and it’s been quite the journey! From adjusting the granny square cardigan pattern to figuring out how to adjust crochet cardigan size, I’ve learned so much along the […]

...As the world of knitting grows, so do the options for formalizing one’s skills and gaining professional recognition. Two leading knitting certification programs stand out in this field: The Japan Handicraft Instructors Association (JHIA) in Japan and The Knitting Guild Association (TKGA) in the United States. Both programs have distinct approaches to developing knitting expertise, […]

...I passed the Passing the JLPT N1 on my first try. It felt like a huge milestone. And it did—for a little while. I had studied Japanese for years, structured my study schedule around the test, and worked through stacks of vocabulary cards and practice exams. But once I got that N1 certificate in my […]

...One of the areas I had to spend the most time on while preparing for the JLPT was vocabulary. JLPT vocabulary study is not just about passing the vocabulary section—it’s the foundation for doing well across the board. Whether it’s reading, listening, or even grammar, knowing the words gives you the ability to understand the […]

...Using the right Hobonichi Weeks layouts for study made a huge difference in how I stayed organized and consistent with my goals. I relied on them heavily while preparing for the JLPT, but these layouts aren’t just for language exams — they’re flexible enough for any kind of study plan. Whether you’re working through coursework, […]

...On December 1st, I took the JLPT N1, marking a significant milestone in my Japanese language learning journey. It was both challenging and enlightening, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you. In this post, I’ll discuss what to expect from the JLPT exam based on my personal experience, along with practical tips to […]

...The Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is just around the corner—scheduled for Sunday, December 1, 2024 (AATJ). I’m also taking the test, and with only a few weeks left, I’ve learned to stop spreading myself thin and zero in on what actually helps. This guide shares my personal strategies for making the most of the final […]

...Staying motivated while studying for the JLPT can be tough, whether you’re preparing for N5 or aiming for N1. I’ve experienced the ups and downs myself—there were weeks I felt unstoppable and others where I could barely crack open my textbook. The journey can be overwhelming, filled with endless vocabulary lists, grammar drills, and listening […]

...Improving your JLPT grammar score can feel daunting, especially with the complexity of the grammar section. What is the best way to improve JLPT grammar? Through my studies, I realized that one of the most effective methods was reviewing mistakes during practice exams. By focusing on the questions I got wrong, I identified patterns and […]

...Studying for the JLPT can be daunting, especially when it comes to the listening section. How do I get better at JLPT listening? This is a common question among test-takers, and the good news is that with the right approach and techniques, you can improve JLPT listening and boost your confidence for exam day. In […]

...Why I started studying JLPT is deeply connected to my childhood experiences in Japan and my early fascination with learning Japanese. I first visited the country when I was 8 or 9 years old, and even at that young age, I was captivated. The people were kind, the streets were clean, and the little shops […]