OMG, what a day! So, I’m a babysitter, right? And today was just... wow. Hirosaki, man, it’s a trip! I mean, I love this city, but today? Ugh. So, I start my day on Kamenoko Street. It’s like, the cutest little street ever. Cherry blossoms everywhere! But I’m not here for the flowers, I’m here for the kiddos. I get to this family’s place, and they’ve got two wild ones: Yuki and Haru. Like, seriously, these kids have more energy than a double shot of espresso. First thing, Yuki spills juice all over the tatami mats. I’m like, “Great, just what I needed.” I’m trying to clean it up, and Haru’s running around like a little tornado. I swear, I thought I’d lose my mind. But then, we head out to the Hirosaki Park. It’s massive! I mean, you could get lost in there. We’re walking down the paths, and I’m trying to keep them from climbing every tree. Like, chill, kids! But then, we see this old guy feeding the koi fish in the pond. I’m talking about the biggest koi I’ve ever seen! I’m like, “Whoa, those fish are living the life!” Then, outta nowhere, Yuki decides to throw a piece of bread at a bird. The bird freaks out and flies right into Haru’s face! I’m dying laughing, but also, like, “What just happened?” Haru starts crying, and I’m like, “Dude, it’s just a bird!” But he’s all dramatic, flailing his arms. After that chaos, we hit up the Hirosaki Castle. It’s so pretty! I mean, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and I’m just standing there, soaking it all in. But then, Yuki runs off to chase a squirrel. I’m like, “Noooo!” I sprint after her, and I’m pretty sure I pulled a muscle. Finally, I catch her, and we’re all out of breath. I’m like, “You can’t just run off like that!” But she gives me this look, like, “Chill, lady.” Kids, right? So, we’re heading back, and I’m thinking, “Okay, almost done.” But then, we pass this little shop on Kamenoko Street. They have the best mochi! I’m like, “Let’s get some!” I buy a bunch, and we sit on a bench. The kids are all sticky and happy, and I’m just like, “This is the life.” But then, outta nowhere, Haru drops his mochi on the ground. I’m like, “Noooo!” It’s like the universe is against me today. He starts crying again, and I’m just over here, trying not to lose it. Finally, we make it back to their place. I’m exhausted, like, I could sleep for a week. But then, the parents come home, and they’re all smiles. They’re like, “How was it?” And I’m just like, “You have no idea.” So, yeah, Hirosaki is beautiful, but man, today was a rollercoaster. I love these kids, but wow, I need a nap. Or maybe a vacation. Or both.