— A Note from the New Kindergarten Manager

We took full advantage of the long weekend to embark on a major project: revitalizing the playground. The first morning greeted us with refreshing, crisp air and the gentle warmth of the sun—a reward for waking up early. Over the course of three days, we tackled the work methodically, balancing ambition with sanity (a delicate art!).

The task was no small feat—digging about 10 centimeters into the earth is surprisingly labor-intensive. Yet, strangely enough, I didn’t feel overly exhausted. The secret to my endurance? Three outfit changes a day and a healthy dose of sweat management. It felt as though with every bead of sweat that rolled off, my mind found a little more clarity.

As I worked, the birds provided a charming soundtrack, their melodies soothing my spirit. These little moments of natural harmony were an unexpected gift. By sunset on the third day, we had achieved a significant transformation, leaving me both physically tired and mentally recharged. My “find of the day”? A lone button unearthed during the digging. I gifted it to one of our experienced teachers, a symbol of how well-maintained our playground has been over the years.

When the weekend ended, I found myself feeling unexpectedly nervous as I welcomed the children back. Watching their tiny hands holding their parents’, walking through the gates, stirred a unique sense of anticipation in me. Seeing them race across the freshly prepared ground for the first time was nothing short of magical. Their innocent joy and boundless energy reminded me of just how much they will continue to grow—and how much this space will be a part of that journey.

It’s hard to believe that this playground, now a humble patch of dirt and dreams, could one day rival the perfection of the Nagoya Baseball Stadium’s iconic grounds. But the joy is in the process, and every little step brings us closer.

As we continue to shape this playground, I imagine a future where it becomes a safe, inviting space where the children can run, play, and let their imaginations soar. That vision keeps me moving forward, one step—and one spadeful of earth—at a time.

Until the next chapter,
Your ever-enthusiastic manager, signing off with muddy boots and a full heart. 😊