Well, so far this winter has not been quite as snowy as we are used to in this part of Japan. It has only snowed a couple of times, and only twice it snowed enough to stay on the ground for any length of time. Outside it is now rather wet and uncomfortable, because when it snows, it quickly turns into a soft slush.

Things were very different a few years ago, when winter really got to us. Back then, we had 50 centimetres in just one night and the next morning was of course a big surprise for all of us. I don't really like that much snow on my own doorstep, but once you get out of the city, you quickly realize the magic of this cold season.

The important thing is that the sky plays along and isn't as cloudy as it usually is these days and weeks. With a little sunshine and blue skies, the snow-covered landscape around you can look really great.

Unfortunately, with so much snow it's often not possible to just spontaneously pull over in your car and stop by the roadside. The snow leaves you very little space and room, and once you're driving, you don't want to get stuck somewhere. But every now and then I did dare to make a quick stop and take a few pictures along the way. Someone has to capture how great it looked on that day.

These days I am also passing this very spot, but it looks a little different at the moment. However, I have a good memory of what I saw back then and, if necessary, I still have a few pictures to jog my memory.

Let's see if winter still has a big white surprise in store for us. I can't say whether I would be happy about it, but sometimes you just have to take life as it comes. And that's what we'll do...