I can finally breathe easily, having shed my formal kimono. What a perfect Japanese New Year's Day it was, starting with the toso wine toast at 9 a.m. with the entire household. Amah and Chokugetsuken seemed bewildered by the formality, being offered the large shallow sake cup in turn by Hiro, dressed up in a well-cut dark suit. When the cup came to Miyo, Kazu eagerly stood on tiptoe, anticipating his turn next. But Hiro's gaze passed over Kazu towards me, and for a moment I worried that he would skip Kazu, perhaps thinking him too young to be given the ritual wine.

But in the next instant, Hiro was on his knee handing Kazu the cup with a token drop of wine. Kazu held it with both hands, beaming me a proud smile, as his father encouraged him to drink up for good health and prosperity. When my turn came, I received the cup from Hiro with gratitude and respect.

It was a bright, crisp day, just like Japanese winter days, and we strolled the neighbourhood paying visits to friends. The Sekines were dressed in their finery, and I was struck by how handsome Masaya looked in his naval uniform. I sensed it wasn't just the outfit that gave Masaya an added glow. Sayako mentioned that Masaya's office was working on a new a beneficial policy for Jewish refugees, which she hoped would bring peace of mind to her over-worked brother-in-law.

Our final call was Tamiko and Rokki’s. We exchanged formal greetings, expressing gratitude for the past year and best wishes for the year ahead. Tamiko was dressed in kimono, her obi sash accentuating her growing belly. She gave me playful looks as we bowed to each other, making it difficult to keep a straight face. But my New Year's greeting to her was heartfelt, filled with prayers for a healthy birth and happiness.

Tuesday, 12 January

Shin-tsu appeared today in a smart navy-blue blazer, looking dashing. I took it for granted that he was dressed up because it was the first lesson of the New Year. I, too, had taken care to look my best, putting on a nice suit. I bowed deeply before sitting down for our lesson. He looked puzzled.