I have just taken receipt of a big parcel from Hokkaido and I’m so excited! It contained lots of presents for me from my sister in law and mum and dad in Tokachi.

In may they all went together to Hakodate to see the cherry blossoms in bloom. While they were there they picked up some souvenirs for me – all cherry blossom themed!! I’m so happy that they thought of me, and remembered how much I love sakura!

I will show you my stash from my sister in law A :)

Sakura Card Holder

Sakura Socks

Super cool Sakura and Hanabi toothbrushes

and now for my stash from mum and dad :)

Sakura coasters

Kasumizakura soap & bath confetti gift set

Sakura Hirari Bath Essence

Sakura Gel Gems - to stick on glass or tiles

It all came packaged in a beautiful bag made of pink material with white flowers embossed on it, and tied with a matching sakura buckle! The smell from inside the bag is divine. I love the smell of sakura!

Yasu also got a Japanese label machine and some Phiten stuff from his dad. So tomorrow morning I will probably wake up with labels all over my face in Japanese or something! haha

But seriously… the above is why I love Japan! I love the design, the ideas they come up with for gift sets and how they take things that are pretty ordinary like toothbrushes and socks and turn them into something so sweet and cute. The way they package even the smallest gift, the attention they give to every detail.

What’s more, I have the best in-laws in the universe who always think of me (and buy me little things here and there on their travels). But it’s also times like these I miss them acutely! If only I could just transport myself to their house right now and thank them with a big gaijin bear hug for welcoming me into their lives :)