Ready for October? - And the rest of the year? 👹🍣🎎 Wonderful Japan

Wasn't it just a few days ago that we were complaining about the never-ending heat and couldn't stop sweating? And now it's suddenly October and we have less than three months left until this year comes to an end.

But here in the Far East, it's unfortunately not unusual for midsummer to stretch well into September, as the hot season again doesn't want to give way to the approaching autumn. That's exactly how it was this year, when the air conditioners here in Japan simply couldn't get a break and had to work endless overtime and extra shifts.

For about a week now, at least the intense heat has been over and we can finally breathe a little more freely again. The evenings and nights are now much more pleasant, even if it's still T-shirt and short pants season.

But when you're out and about, you notice that the seasons are changing. Many leaves are now turning colour, hinting at how colourful and vibrant our surroundings will soon become.

October is just the beginning, and now we usually have the best weather for enjoying the outdoors. I have quite a few plans for this month, and I hope I can at least realise a few of them.

For example, I would like to go hiking again, and I have a small mountain in mind that we already climbed once this year. But as I discovered, there are several different routes to the summit, so I would like to tackle this mountain again from a different side. Last time, we didn't have to rush up and down, but now in October, the days are noticeably shorter and we should be back by 5 p.m. at the latest.

Yes, that's the big disadvantage of this late season. The sun is showing itself less and less, and you have to adjust your outdoor activities accordingly.

Until now, we have often eaten dinner outside, but that is over for the time being. However, now it will be lunchtime when we will hopefully be able to treat ourselves to something delicious outside in the fresh air. It is just great to enjoy a nice snack while watching the wonderful nature around you, and here in this corner of the world there is quite a bit to discover.

Hopefully, we'll also make it to the beach. I'm not counting on all of us getting into the water again, but maybe I'll manage it on my own at least. The water temperatures are usually still quite pleasant at this time of year, and this year's long summer should have ensured that the sea is a few degrees warmer than usual.

From that perspective, things are looking pretty good. October promises a lot, and hopefully we'll be able to make things fun ourselves. With my small team, we should be able to have a great time this month too. I am sure we'll manage everyday life with all its tasks and challenges too, and at the end to find some big smiles on our faces.

All right, I'm ready for a month full of fun, joy and loud laughter! Who's with me?