This photo first appeared in October, 2012. My story from that week is here.
The picture has a similar impact on me, reminding me of my time spent in Japan, the people I met there and a woman who is near and dear to my heart, Mihoko. She lived with us for about a year as a ‘mother’s helper’ when my older two children were babies and helped in so many ways – mostly, as an experienced mother who’d raised her children, she let me know I was doing OK when things felt hard. Patient, calm, and always willing to help, she was a true blessing and we are still dear friends, even now that those two babies are all grown up.
Word Count: 100
Itamae
Her life’s dream rested here. Opening the restaurant had been a labor of love and honor. Named for her grandfather, Hiro, his hands had lovingly taught her the art of becoming Itamae and all that came with that title – the importance of one’s ingredients, one’s utensils, one’s patrons, and one’s movements. Their sushi-ya would be known for creating dishes full of both artistry and heart.
Mihoko nodded, looking around her; her white coat and apron spotless, her knife sharp and her heart full. She turned on the lights and opened the door to her future, ready to serve.
すし屋
To see other stories, please visit the Rochelle Wisoff-Fields site here.
© Erin Leary
erinlearywrites 
Lovely, I could see Mihoko entering the room. Well done, I’m sure she would love the tribute!
Thank you! I am glad you could see her there.
This is beautiful–filled with such hope. I really enjoyed reading it!
Thank you for reading, Lorna!
My pleasure!
As a restaurateur myself I wish her success!
Visit Keith’s Ramblings!
It’s hard work, but so rewarding when it’s what you love.
Wonderful! You convey such a sense of hope, happiness and confidence in the future. A very satisfying story.
Thanks, Jan!
Love it and you had me googling so now I understand the significance of the knife.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it.
Wonderfully written. I think Mihoko would be honored that you used her name in this story…it reflects on her…sharpness, readiness, and full heart…that she shared with you that year as “a mother’s helper.”
I hope so! She is a wonderful person. It may be time for another visit.
Powerful piece.
Very well written.
Thank you, dear Elephant.
Very beautiful!
Thanks!
That is terrific. I didn’t see the end coming 🙂
Thank you for reading!
There was such a spirit of hopefulness and new beginnings here. Lovely, Erin.
Thank you, Sandra! Loved reading yours this week!
I sensed her preparations as almost a ceremony of sorts, with everything being just so before she could begin. How great you had that experience with her and that you’re still friends. Great story.
How very fortunate you are to have a fiend like that. Your story pays her homage.
Nice story, so full of hope and a lovely tribute to your friend.
I love the gentleness .. there is something so positive in all the preparations and I have to wish her all the best.
Great piece! I can feel her sense of pride and respect for her grandfather.
Ellespeth
I love the mood and feeling you’ve created here. And Mihoko is a wonderfully drawn character. Beautiful.
Erin, this is great! Mihoko is going to have a great time in this kitchen! Nan
Dear Erin,
Although I don’t recall reading this three years ago (I’ve slept since then 😉 ) it’s worth reading again and again. Beautifully written.
Shalom,
Rochelle
This was a perfect word picture of a woman well-trained to do a job she loves. She’s filled with confidence. Thank you for the background of your time in Japan.Well done, Erin. 🙂 — Suzanne