Despite "that", spring has come.

So it's been almost three weeks since the major earthquake hit the eastern part of Japan. I thought I'd update this before the new month begins. There were lots of stuff I wanted to share but I wasn't sure if i should. I believe it has been the most difficult time for many of us including us who didn't get direct affect from Tsunami and earthquakes. Since March 11, I believe we have had more than 300 earthquakes. It was normal to have an earthquake or two every hour. The radiation levels in the eastern part of Japan spiked (though the elevated radiation levels in Tokyo are the same as some European cities' usual radiation levels so no need to panic). Unfortunately, radioactive substances have been found in tap water and vegetables in the eastern part of Japan. The nuclear power plant situation is still unstable. I believe many have been under a lot of pressure we have never experienced. This time of the year is usually very important for many of us because it's the cherry blossom season. I am sure I have blogged about them in the past but because of the very big disasters, we haven't been able to pay much attention to when cherry blossoms are going to be in full bloom and such. The weather forecast reported a few days ago that Tokyo will get cherry blossoms in full bloom very soon. Cherry blossoms viewing at night by drinking is a common spring event among many Japanese. But many try not to do so this year to respect those in difficult times. I am not sure if that is the best thing because it is very important to blow off some stress by having a great time even if this is a difficult time. The chance of getting sick from this stress is greater than getting cancer from the elevated radiation levels, I assume :) Anyway, I am not sure if it would be interesting but I will share some of "post-disaster" life in Tokyo that you cannot get from CNN/BBC news coverage. Until then, I will try to be safe. Have a wonderful last day of March and wishing you a pleasant day from a slightly radiation contaminated city!