Charmed by Michigan - Travel, Cafes & Everyday Joys Between Michigan and Japan

A Giant Red Chair at Krzysiak's House, Bay City, Michigan & A Hat 'Mystery'

2026-10-18T11:28:21.598+09:00

After attending Sunday Mass, we headed over to a Polish restaurant, also located in Bay City. It’s a spot we’ve actually been to before for lunch.

Krzysiak's House Restaurant opened in 1973 and is famous for its authentic Polish flavors. The best part is their all-you-can-eat buffet where you can enjoy traditional dishes to your heart's content! They also have a wide variety of desserts, which is an absolute dream. It truly is perfect for trying a bit of everything.

Right outside the building, there it was—that familiar giant red chair! Since we visited in October, they had pumpkins sitting on its matching footrest for Thanksgiving.

Krzysiak’s 1605 Michigan Ave, Bay City, MI 48708

See? It really is giant, right? 😉

When we walked inside, a friendly lady passing by complimented my hat. That actually reminded me of a few days ago, when a sweet lady in the hotel elevator told me my hat was pretty. I just love that people here casually talk to me like that when I'm traveling from Japan.

Although we weren't having a meal here today, we took a moment to look at the buffet I remembered and browse through the indoor gift shop before moving on to our next destination.

When I told Collie about my black hat compliments, he was like, “That could be taken two ways. Worst-case scenario is, they probably don't want to admit how great you look, so they praise the hat instead.” 😑 Gotta love his sense of humor...

By the way, he is Polish-American. If anyone out there knows, please tell me: is this classic Collie humor a Polish thing, or just his own way of being funny?

🇵🇱

I’d love to come back for the buffet someday—but I’ll definitely need to bring a serious appetite for that! haha

Until next time, Rose

Living with Sincerity: A Sunday at St. Stanislaus Church, Bay City, Michigan

2026-10-11T20:31:24.170+09:00

It was a beautiful Sunday in October. While Collie spends most of his weekdays staying at his mother's house to support her, the weekend was when he escaped for a drive up north to recharge and unwind.

Our first stop was Bay City, Michigan. We made it just in time for the English mass at 11:30 AM.

St. Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church

1503 Kosciuszko Ave, Bay City, MI 48708

This stunning Neo-Gothic church was founded back in 1874 by Polish immigrants who settled in the area. The building we see today was constructed between the 1890s and early 1900s. It’s a beautiful local landmark that has been loved by the community for generations.

It is also known as the main church for Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish.

One of the wonderful things about Mass is that we can always find a nearby church to join, wherever we happen to be. It's a blessing to get to experience the unique atmosphere of each church.

The delicate Austrian stained glass gently filters sunlight into the sanctuary.

No one can predict what tomorrow brings. For now, my path is to focus honestly on what I can do today. It’s about figuring out the best step to take right now, and remaining flexible enough to adapt gently as things change.

I believe that as long as I walk my chosen path, living each day with sincerity and doing the best I can, God will always be watching over me.

The LORD will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

PSALM 121:7-8

A Sweet, Wistful Story of Dreamy Meijer and Mini Roses in Michigan

2026-10-04T12:57:06.724+09:00

One of my favorite places to check out during my trip to Michigan is Meijer! It’s huge and has everything you need. Meijer is a massive supercenter that you can find all over Michigan.

For instance, look at this Meijer. Doesn't it just look like a dream?

Established in Michigan in 1934, they embrace a 'heritage design' to bring a warm, welcoming feel to the local community.

Kroger is a standard supermarket, perfect for quick, casual grocery runs. In contrast, Meijer is a huge supercenter that covers everything from clothes and electronics to home furniture.

It might just be my personal take, but if Kroger feels masculine, Meijer feels feminine to me. Maybe it’s because of their cute brick storefronts that look like townhouses, and perhaps it's their red logo on a white background.

Inside the store, I found some beautiful mini roses. Their delicate charm was so captivating that I simply had to snap a photo.

To be honest, I really wanted them, but I couldn't ask him directly. It wasn't that I just wanted to buy them myself; I was longing for the romance of receiving my favorite flowers as a gift from the person I love. So, I captured them in a photo instead.

Mini roses are my absolute favorite. But to be exact, I prefer ones that are even tinier than these. In this photo, they look like almost regular roses, don't they? So now, I tell myself it’s okay that he didn’t buy them. Haha!

Back at the house, we had a simple dinner with some leftover takeout salad and frozen dishes. The fall-themed napkins added a nice seasonal touch to the table.

Even so, those beautiful roses stayed on my mind during the rest of my stay. Before returning to Japan, while spending a quiet time alone at his house, I finally sent him an email gently explaining why I had wished for those flowers from him. When he came back home later, he smiled and said, 'Let’s go get you those roses!'

After that, we went back to Meijer a few times when we went out, but the mini roses weren't there anymore. He said, 'I'm sorry I didn't buy them for you at that time.'

I felt sorry that I couldn't see those roses again. However, in retrospect, I realize that what truly mattered was simply that he is safe and well. I believe there will be another chance for the roses.

May I encounter such beautiful roses in Michigan once again. And hopefully, at that dreamy Meijer.

Discovering the Historic Elegance of Clarkston, Michigan With Him

2026-09-27T09:56:34.942+09:00

With the lingering warmth of a lovely lunch at 2 South Brunch House, we set off to explore downtown Clarkston, which welcomes you with a warm, refined charm.

Essence on Main, 4 S Main St, Village of Clarkston, MI

Before us stands Essence on Main, a gourmet specialty market. Its classic red brick architecture, echoing the late 19th and early 20th centuries, captures the very essence of Clarkston’s historic district.

Located about 34 miles northwest of Detroit, Clarkston is a small community tucked away in Oakland County.

My Michigan boy seems completely focused on our little expedition—his serious back is just too cute. ❤︎

Across the street, you can see a soft blue-grey building—Clarkston Union Bar & Kitchen. It’s a restaurant with a rich history, beautifully renovated from a church originally built in the 1840s. He took me inside to let me take in the atmosphere, fondly explaining how he used to be brought here as a child.

Their signature dish is the legendary home-style Mac & Cheese. Right next door, the rustic brown brick building houses its sister property, a very popular American barbecue restaurant.

It looks like he’s on a serious smartphone mission... :3

Back in Japan, I sent him all these back-view photos, and he actually got grumpy. I do want photos of his face, but every single time I aim the camera, he makes silly faces. -_- I wish he’d just stay still for once! That said, his serious back views are so cute and special to me—I guess I just need to be a bit more selective about which ones I share with him.

Being Michigan's smallest incorporated city, Clarkston overflows with timeless elegance. With every step alongside him, past charming brick pathways and beautiful Victorian homes, I found myself completely captivated by its quiet grace.

I am grateful to share the story and soul of this tiny, picturesque town.

Rose

2 South Brunch House: A Memorable Brunch Experience in Clarkston, MI

2026-09-20T10:02:03.362+09:00

Fall was just starting to color Michigan. Beforehand, Collie suggested taking me to a town called Clarkston that coming Saturday. Since I’d never been there before, he thought it’d be the perfect opportunity for me to see it. knowing I'm a foodie, he low-key expected me to check around. Sure enough, I immediately started researching and picked out the perfect brunch spot.

The restaurant I fell in love with was 2 South Brunch House in downtown Clarkston. More than anything, I was dying to try this dish.

Chicken Burrata

Chicken breast, burrata cheese, grilled tomatoes,

balsamic glaze, mixed greens, cheesy potatoes and pita

Seeing several photos of this dish in the reviews made me so eager to try it! It’s packed with so many delicious things and is super satisfying.

When Collie saw my plate arrive, his eyes went wide, and he was like, 'Wow, yours looks so good!' He’s usually too polite to try my food, but this time, I let him have a bite. 🤭

As for Collie, he ordered an omelet, which came with a choice of sides: a half order of pancakes, hash browns, or toast. He mentioned that he hadn’t had pancakes in a while, so he went with them as his choice.

My huge plate might be front and center here,😅 but choosing the Western from all the omelet options was such a solid, classic move for Collie.

Western Omelet

Ham, onions, green peppers, Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese

with ½ order pancakes as a side

Both of us were amazed by the size and amount of the pancakes! He said he never expected a half order of pancakes to be this massive.

But honestly, those pancakes were absolutely delicious❤︎❤︎❤︎ (Yes, I totally snuck a taste.) Even though I had ordered a giant plate myself, I couldn't help but feel a little jealous of his...

As expected, neither of us could finish those huge pancakes, so we boxed up the leftovers—which ended up becoming a delicious meal for me a few days later.

2 South Brunch House

2 South Main Street Clarkston, Michigan 48346

I found out that Clarkston is the smallest incorporated city by land area in Michigan. It's a charming small town that is beautifully sophisticated and welcoming. It made me realize that there are still plenty of lovely towns in Michigan waiting for me to discover.

Here’s another shot of my plate, this time from the cheesy potatoes side. 😉

Just like their website says, 'Quality Ingredients Turned into Memorable Brunch Plates in Clarkston, MI,' it truly was a brunch experience I won't forget. And the impressive large portions they promise!

I’d love to go back again someday, especially for another taste of those pancakes! Apparently, they’re made from scratch using buttermilk. No wonder they tasted so good.

If you ever get the chance to go, their delicious, surprise-filled plates are sure to make you smile.

Cozy Little Flower Styling: Cute Way to Decorate Broken Flowers

2026-09-13T10:37:40.549+09:00

Looking for easy and budget-friendly ways to decorate with flowers? This simple floral styling trick is perfect for rescued broken stems. Turn a small accident into a beautiful, cozy corner.

Collie prepared a beautiful bouquet for me in the kitchen, but sadly, some of the yellow marguerites had broken off.

So, I took out a tiny creamer and gently floated the flowers in the water. It feels as though these tiny flowers have been given a brand new life ☺️🌼

A casual, solo dinner while Collie is away—sautéed shrimp and bell peppers, brown bread, and a Labatt Blue. I sent this photo to a friend in Michigan, and she replied, “Such a wonderful size 💖”

Also in the photo is the cute box she packed with cookies and fresh zucchini bread for me.

On another solo night, I enjoyed some leftover salad from a restaurant, upgraded with a hard-boiled egg and a drizzle of mayo or Ranch dressing 🤭🥚 To be completely honest, it was actually the salad Collie ordered for himself the night before, and I just ended up finishing it off!

Whether it’s giving a broken flower a second life or turning yesterday’s leftovers into a cozy dinner, I love finding beauty and joy in these little things. It’s all about embracing life’s small accidents and making them a little more special.

The Vintage Charm of Downtown Oxford, Michigan: Classic Brick Streets

2026-09-07T10:44:39.373+09:00

Walking into downtown Oxford feels like stepping back in time; it is a historic district recognized on the National Register of Historic Places. It beautifully captures the essence of the 'good old American Main Street' that exists in the hearts of so many.

Along N Washington Street, which runs through the heart of downtown, rows of charming brick buildings stand side by side, each filled with timeless character.

Oxford Jewelers

The warm red brick building at the center is a beloved local jewelry shop. The cursive text on its sign is so full of elegance. It blends seamlessly into the surroundings, where many historic buildings from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries still remain.

HomeGrown Brewing Company

And here is HomeGrown Brewing Company, a dream spot I finally got to visit. To see how I spent my time there, please take a look here:

A Charming Mishap at HomeGrown Brewing: My Dream Spot in Oxford, MI

Many of the brick buildings seen around here were built in the late 1800s, specifically between the 1880s and 1890s. The town has a history of rebirth; following a devastating fire during that time, it transformed from wooden buildings into resilient brick buildings.

Centennial Alley, leading to the patio of HomeGrown Brewing

Discovered that downtown Oxford was established in 1837—a true testament to its long and beautiful history. The nostalgic charm of this small town gently warms my heart.

Victoria's Bistro & Cocktail Bar

Lastly, Victoria's Bistro, housed in a charming 1878 brick building with its tasteful blue accents.

N Washington Street beautifully showcases the timeless charm of a classic 'Main Street, USA.' While America has countless lovely little brick towns, Oxford feels uniquely different...quaint? —there is something else about it. What is that "something"?

Well, I’ll leave that for you to discover when you visit.

Rose🌷

Discover the Vintage Small Town Vibe & Quaint Charm in Oxford, Michigan

2026-08-30T08:34:30.527+09:00

Oxford is a charming small town in Michigan. My connection to this place began when Collie shared a little fact with me: 'It’s a sister city to Oxford in England.

Since my first visit, I've been captivated by the unique atmosphere of the downtown buildings—a place where 'quaint charm' feels like the perfect description. While America has plenty of lovely small towns with great vibes, there is something about downtown Oxford that sets it truly apart from any other.

Yes, it’s the unique vibe that these buildings give off—a street view of matching brick buildings.

This view was actually born from the scars of a fierce fire that once devastated the town, and the great determination of the people who decided to build a strong town that would never burn down again.

Knowing that this quiet, peaceful place survived such a turbulent history, the color of the bricks feels even deeper and richer.

Surely, this unique atmosphere comes from its history. It is different from just being 'cute.' The resilience of the ancestors who went through the disaster is reflected in the very soul of these buildings.

The powerful dark navy and deep red brick colors of downtown Oxford carry on that legacy.

Under the brilliant sun, I stood across the street, trying my best to capture a better shot of those buildings on North Washington Street. I wanted to do them justice.

I would be so happy if these photos and the story of Oxford leave a lasting mark on your heart.

Sleek Design & Quality Ingredients: The Good Egg Breakfast Cafe, Oxford, Michigan

2026-08-23T08:56:20.586+09:00

This was a must-try spot if I ever visited Oxford, Michigan again! Today, I’m excited to share my experience at The Good Egg Breakfast Cafe—a trendy, beloved local gem known for its simple yet delicious ingredients.

And I already had my order locked in. 🤭 I went with the ultimate American classic: a burger and French fries.

Look at these beautiful fries! 😍 The fries here are absolutely my style. I love simple fries without any extra batter.

When asked what to pair with my fries, I requested mayonnaise. They didn't seem to have it, but kindly suggested ranch as an alternative. 📝 Note to self: "ranch" is the go-to answer in the US!

THE GOOD EGG BREAKFAST CAFE

51 S WASHINGTON ST, OXFORD, MI 48371, US

Phone: (248) 572-4315 Open 7 days 8 AM - 3 PM

Actually, I read that they don't cook with any seed oils here. They use tallow in the fryers, and avocado oil, olive oil, and butter everywhere else! No wonder the fries taste so clean and tasty.

I really admire their dedication to serving food with that level of care and quality.

They seated me at a cozy table in the back. The restaurant gave off a sleek vibe with its black and brown design, both inside and out.

WPCR Coffee

This picture shows the view looking out toward the back. I took one from the opposite side just for the memory.

The coffee was amazing, too, and I loved that it came with free refills!

They use beans from White Pine Coffee Roasters—a beloved local roaster who carefully roast their own beans. whitepinecoffee.com

Biggie Max Burger

Two Angus smash burgers with American cheese, lettuce,

pickles, onion, and special sauce on a brioche bun

Look at this chunky texture! 😍 Unlike perfectly round, factory-made patties, they use 100% Angus beef smashed right on the grill. It has that amazing, rustic homemade feel.

Both the burger and fries here are definitely something else! It’s exactly as they say on their website: a place that serves thoughtfully made brunch and classic comforts with warm hospitality. Tucked right in the heart of downtown Oxford, it’s truly the kind of spot you'll want to come back to—again and again.

As I was walking up to the counter to leave, I told the lady, 'I really loved your coffee.' She smiled warmly and said, 'Oh, gooood!' 😊✨

I hope to come back here with Collie someday. I’m already dreaming of having that burger and French fries again—and of course, that flavorful coffee!

A Cozy Morning Alone: Sweet Overnight Oats at His Place

2026-08-16T09:04:43.772+09:00

So, this is me enjoying my time at his house in Michigan. On mornings without him, this was pretty much my standard breakfast.

I had brought the oatmeal with me from Japan. He had kindly bought me some Greek yogurt and soy milk at a local supermarket, so the night before, I prepared some overnight oats in the fridge for the next morning.

He also got me some organic frozen blueberries and cut fruits. Blueberries aren't really his thing, but he loves eating these cut fruits with me at home. It seems like picking up fresh cut fruits is just a natural part of his daily life.

This breakfast is a little low on protein, but I make up for it by adding collagen powder to my coffee.

I highly recommend this iHerb collagen powder because if you pour coffee over it, it dissolves completely without even stirring! https://iherb.com/c/california-gold-nutrition/collagen

Feel free to use my referral code PKD185 for a little discount on your order. 😉

Currently, I’m taking a break from Greek yogurt and soy milk for SIBO management. This is a snapshot of my time in Michigan last year—a sweet record of how I was doing my best to look after my health back then.

Inside Meijer: Sweet & Funny Moments of Grocery Shopping with Him

2026-08-09T09:36:04.853+09:00

One of my favorite things to do in Michigan is visiting a giant local supermarket like Meijer. The store is massive, and it’s packed with so many colorful American items!

Even a simple grocery shopping trip becomes a special memory with him. 🍓

Collie took the mission very seriously.

I told him that I wanted some shrimp to cook at home, so he was carefully choosing the best one for me. He looked so serious! 🤣 He explained to me that pre-cooked (boiled) shrimp is safer than raw shrimp to avoid food poisoning.

I just couldn't resist following him and snapping photos of his back profile. 🤭

Inspecting every single detail...

I caught this adorable moment of him staring at the items so intently. 🥰 Look at him focusing on choosing the best one!

He was actually looking for a convenient sensor light for me to use during my stay at his house. He wanted to make sure I felt comfortable every night.

However, we had completely opposite ideas about safety! I thought having a light on would be safer because it scares away bad guys, but he said that a sensor light actually makes it easier for them to see inside the house.

Meijer is definitely a very helpful place for us. Collie took care of me so well, going back and forth between his mom's house—whom he always cares for—and his own house where I was staying. He is just so adorable and reliable.

Rose🌷

A Charming Mishap at HomeGrown Brewing: My Dream Spot in Oxford, MI

2026-08-03T15:07:43.763+09:00

Oxford hides some incredible gems, and there was one specific brewery-restaurant that I'd been dying to check out. Once Collie returned from work, he was sweet enough to take me there.

It’s a family-owned local spot that uses Oxford’s own water to brew their craft beers.

HomeGrown Brewing Company
28 N Washington St. Oxford, MI 48371

I actually checked out their menu while I was in Japan to find the perfect brew for me. My favorites are hazy, smooth, and light-colored beers. So, I started with this beautifully pale, fruity glass.

Polly Ann Witbier

It’s a gentle Belgian-style wheat beer with subtle hints of citrus. With its lower ABV, it was the absolute perfect starter for the evening.

Their special brews bring together the world's finest hand-picked hops and Oxford’s own pure water. Crafted with love by a local family right in the heart of downtown Oxford, each is a truly unique pint you can only experience right here.

When the server came over and asked how I liked the beer, I told him it was amazing, adding, ''I'll order another one later!''　

As for Collie, he didn’t order any beer at all and just had water. Part of it was because he was driving us around, but he’s never really been a big fan of alcohol anyway.

That evening, fresh salads were our dinner of choice.

Collie's choice: Farmhouse Salad (GF)

Romaine, roasted chicken, bacon, corn, tomatoes,

peas, cucumber, carrot, shredded cheese, w/ranch

Rose's choice: Power Salad (V, GF, Vegan without cheese)

Mixed greens, quinoa, pistachios, red onion, chickpeas,

cucumber, feta cheese, w/lemon vinaigrette + Salmon

True to their 'Locavore' philosophy, this restaurant focuses on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can really taste the freshness of Michigan in every bite.

But then, the unexpected happened. Right as I was finishing up my first glass, the same server swiftly showed up with the exact same beer again! Both Collie and I just froze, our eyes wide with surprise, like, ''Wait, what?!''

Clearly, the server took my words to mean I wanted a refill of the exact same beer. But in reality, I was actually excited to order the real one I'd been dying to taste. In any case, I never in a million years imagined another glass would just appear before I even said a word. Still, it was a very sweet gesture on his part.

Zephyros NE IPA on the left 😂

Two pints is my absolute limit anyway. Thankfully, he let me know that they offer small tasters to sample the beers. So, I finally got a tiny pour of the Zephyros in a little glass—the exact beer I’d been longing for ever since doing my research in Japan.

The Zephyros NE IPA is the ultimate Hazy Double IPA! The aroma is incredibly rich and full-bodied, just like you'd expect from a high-alcohol beer. I just never thought I’d end up tasting my dream beer in such a small amount... 😭

After a few precious tastes of the Zephyros, I filled the rest of the small glass with Polly Ann. Too cute not to capture for the memories 🤍

I didn’t want that second pint poured for me to go to waste, so I told him, ''Don't worry about it, I’ll definitely be back!''

But later on, Collie asked me, ''You said you'd be back, but are you really going back there again?'' Since he’s not much of a drinker himself, he seemed genuinely amazed that I was already planning my next beer trip. 😅

Honestly, I was secretly planning to try a solo brewery run while in Michigan! I thought to myself, ''It's such a welcoming spot that next time I can pop in alone right after they open.'' But in the end, that opportunity never came up.

I’m so happy I got to tell you all about this awesome hidden gem in Oxford today. If you're a beer lover and find yourself in the area, make sure to enjoy your favorite pint for me! 😉

The Hidden Language of My Michigan Flowers

2026-07-26T08:19:53.654+09:00

Sipping Coffee on My First Morning at His Place

The next morning, the flowers are glowing in the morning light on the dining table.

Whenever I visit Michigan, he prepares flowers for me—smaller ones for what I secretly call "my room," and a larger arrangement for the dining table.

Now that I'm back in Japan and reflecting on my trip, I have explored the language of flowers again, just like in my last post. 🤭

🌼Yellow Marguerite: Beautiful appearance / Happiness / Affection

🤍White Marguerite: Sincerity / Pure love / Secret love

🌹Red Rose: Passionate love / I love you　　🌻Sunflower: Looking only at you / Adoration

There’s no single, universal phrase for this specific combination of flowers. However, according to the Western tradition of Victorian "floriography" (the language of flowers), the symbols of each flower blend into a powerful, positive message of deep love:

"With a pure and sincere heart, I love only you passionately, and I will make you happy."

Oh my goodness! I bet he bought these flowers pre-arranged as a bouquet at the shop. But does this mean the florist intentionally designed the bouquet with this beautiful meaning in mind?

On my first morning there after he had already left, I chilled out over a light meal. I opened a cute box of treats—a thoughtful souvenir from a couple we had visited together—and also tasted my favorite pecan nuts alongside a fresh cup of coffee.

Since Collie doesn't drink coffee, I made sure to bring my own coffee beans from Japan. I always put collagen powder in my first coffee of the day. Usually I do it beforehand, but oops—I forgot and added it after!

I had absolutely no idea about the language of flowers back then. Now, here in Japan, I’ve discovered that their💐message was as pure and deeply passionate as a marriage proposal. He likely just grabbed a pre-made bouquet, but it makes me feel a little flutter inside. ☺️

What Does It Mean When Your Partner Gives You Yellow Carnations?

2026-07-18T10:54:25.119+09:00

Yellow Carnations: Sweet Friendship or a Hidden Warning?

I finally arrived at his place🏡, and when I went into 'my room'🤭, I noticed he had fresh flowers as usual. He always does this whenever I visit, which is incredibly sweet. But this time...

They were carnations. And wait, they’re YELLOW?! Ummm... okay, hold on a second...

Tied the Astoria string on the vase myself on my last visit.

According to the language of flowers, yellow carnations basically have these three main meanings...

1. Sunny Vibes ☀️

He definitely wanted to brighten up the room and make it cozy for me.

2. Friendship 💔

Wait... Is he putting me in the friendzone?!

3. Jealousy 😬

This makes absolutely no sense.

Later, he told me, "Is there something wrong with yellow flowers? I just bought them because they look bright and beautiful."

In American and Western culture, decorating a room with yellow flowers seems to carry a purely positive meaning. Generally speaking, most regular Americans probably don't think about the language of flowers when picking them out. Most of the time, it's simply because "they look cute and pretty."

Did some studying here during my alone time.

As for my reaction? Let’s just say I didn't go as far as saying, "They really make the room look lovely!" Of course, I thanked him. But then, I had to educate him a little bit and said, "You know, yellow actually means jealousy..."

But seriously, why would he give me flowers that mean jealousy anyway? It makes no sense. And as his partner, the meaning I should actually be worried about is "friendship."

Friendzone...💧 Ugh. 😑

To be completely honest, I actually just looked up the whole language of flowers thing while writing this blog post. So back then, I didn't even know yellow carnations meant 'friendship.' But I did vaguely know that yellow flowers, in general, could mean jealousy.

Well, since he bought those yellow carnations without thinking too much about it, let’s just pretend he meant 'my best friend and partner in crime.'

— My partner is my best friend. —

Right? 😉

Gentle New Start: Cozy Days in Michigan with Founders Mortal Bloom

2026-07-12T19:26:03.426+09:00

Today, I’m sharing a few things I picked up at a local grocery store, with a special focus on a regional Michigan beer. As my stay at his place quietly begins, after spending my first few days at a hotel, I wanted to share these little local discoveries that are making the start of our time together feel warm and grounded. Though, truth be told, he was the one who bought everything I needed!

I hope you enjoy a glimpse into my cozy evenings. It’s a gentle fresh start to my trip to Michigan.

Delightful grocery store find: Founders Mortal Bloom

About the taste of Mortal Bloom, the Founders Brewing Co. website reads "Citrus and tropical notes of pineapple and mango. Moderately hazy, low bitterness, soft mouthfeel..."

I was thrilled to spot this beer at the grocery store! I first tried it when Collie and I visited a couple we're friends with in Michigan, and I absolutely loved it. Collie doesn’t usually drink much beer, but he told me that Grand Rapids, where this beer is brewed, is famous for its IPAs. I learned that Grand Rapids is even known as 'Beer City, USA'!

This Hazy IPA is packed with juicy hop flavors, but has a beautifully smooth, velvety finish. It instantly became one of my favorite beers. The floral package design is also quite unique, don't you think?

Along with the beer, we got Dave's Killer Bread, pecans, bananas, and mandarins. The frozen organic blueberries and soy milk are already tucked away in the freezer and fridge, but basically, everything was completely tailored to my liking! Haha.

Here is a bonus photo of the little potted plants at the store. Out of all of them, I think the small red roses in the top center are my favorite. I couldn't quite bring myself to ask Collie to put them at his place, so I just admired them from afar.

I packed a few cans of Mortal Bloom into my suitcase when heading back to Japan. Back home, I treasured those beers, keeping them in my fridge for a long time, to save that special feeling and savor the taste again like I was in Michigan.

The Warmth of Silence — Sharing a Michigan Sunset from the Passenger Seat

2026-07-04T09:26:42.720+09:00

Resuming my Michigan reflections.

We were heading to his town, with him behind the wheel. The sky, which had displayed a rainbow just moments ago, had faded into a dramatic, multi-layered sunset.

It was a regular weekday. While I was on vacation, he had worked all day before coming to pick me up at my hotel. Taking care of me meant his night would be more hectic than his usual routine.

Yet, there was something incredibly special about sharing the sunset he sees everyday in his ordinary life. He usually drives this road alone, but now, I am sitting next to him. He is busy, yes, but I felt a quiet certainty that he was glad to have me by his side.

I wish I could drive so he could take a break. But even though I got my driver's license in Japan, I don't own a car and never drive. So, the best I can do right now is to keep my eyes glued to the road, trying my hardest to absorb how driving works here in America.

While he drives, I keep quiet so I won't distract him. Yet, there’s no awkwardness in our silence. By looking straight ahead and pretending I’m behind the wheel too, I feel like we are sharing the moment, even without words. Sometimes, I softly stroke his shoulder or take a quick look at his face.

That sunset, shared by the two of us, left a warm glow in my heart.

◇ Quick Update ◇

Just a quick tip if you're looking for my blog next time: my Pinterest will now pop up in the results by searching on Google for "Rose Charmed by Michigan," "Charmed by Michigan," or simply "jophielrose." My Blogger URL is linked right there in the profile, making it super easy to come back and read more! Thanks for staying tuned, and I look forward to sharing more with you.　Best, Rose

June at Ebisu Garden Place: Turning the Page Back to My Michigan Journals

2026-06-22T17:08:13.817+09:00

Feeling the gentle yet powerful energy of nature this beautiful June, I found myself reflecting on my life here in Japan, realizing it is time to bring one chapter to a peaceful close.

Until now, I have shared glimpses of my daily life in Tokyo on this blog. Moving forward, however, I want to return to what inspired me to start this blog and focus primarily on my beloved Michigan—sharing my travel journals and memories of the places I hold so dear. As for my Tokyo stories, I will only be sharing them once in a very long while.

If you originally visited my blog with the hope of finding Michigan content and found yourself disappointed by other topics mixed in, I am truly sorry. From now on, I am dedicated to filling these pages with stories that truly live up to the name of this blog: Charmed by Michigan.

June at Ebisu Garden Place, Tokyo, Japan

With heartfelt gratitude to everyone who visits my blog. I hope you will continue to enjoy my Michigan stories in the days to come.

For more visual stories—including my memories of Michigan and various other moments—you can find them curated on my Pinterest here: https://jp.pinterest.com/jophielrose/

Thank you for being part of my journey.

June 2026

Returning to the Roots, Rose

Tomate Farcie and More: 7 Gorgeous Lunch Plates at Bistro Quatre Avril in Tokyo

2026-06-21T18:14:47.283+09:00

A cozy lunch at my favorite neighborhood gem, Bistro Quatre Avril in Fudomae. Loving their hearty, authentic French home cooking. Let the main dishes speak for themselves through these photos!

❶ June 5, 2025

🍅Tomate farcie à la provençale avec riz pilaf

トマトファルシ（ひき肉詰め）プロヴァンス風ピラフ添え

Provencal meat-stuffed tomato (tomate farcie) served with a side of pilaf rice. Simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious.

❷ June 28, 2025

Surpreme de volaille sauté sauce creme d'estragon moutarde avec riz pilaf

鶏ムネ肉のソテークリームエストラゴンソースピラフ添え

Sautéed chicken breast with a creamy estragon (tarragon) sauce, served with a side of pilaf rice. So tender, flavorful, and comforting.

❸ July 5, 2025

Poulet des Caraibes façon des mamans Antillaises avec riz pilaf

鶏肉のカリブ仕立て現地のママスタイルピラフ添え

Caribbean-style chicken "local mom style," served with a side of pilaf rice. Wonderfully bright, zesty, and delicious!

❹ August 21, 2025

Steak haché aux deux fromages sauce provençale avec riz pilaf

ハンバーグステーキ 2種のチーズ乗せプロヴァンスソースピラフ添え

Hamburg steak topped with two types of melted cheese and Provencal sauce, served with a side of pilaf rice. Thick, incredibly tender, savory, and so satisfying.

❺ September 2, 2025

Bouchée à la reine au blanc de poulet et sa purée de pomme

👑ブッシェアラレンヌ（女王様の一口）マッシュポテト添え

Bouchée à la reine (puff pastry case filled with cream sauce) over a bed of smooth mashed potatoes. Flaky, creamy, and beautifully elegant.

❻ September 6, 2025

Boulette de viande à la mediterrantéenne avec riz pilaf

肉団子の地中海風（トマトソース）ピラフ添え

Mediterranean-style meatballs in a rich tomato sauce, served with a side of pilaf rice. Juicy, big, and comforting.

❼ September 28, 2025

Cuisse de volaille sautée, pomme boulangere et legumes

鳥モモ肉のソテージャガイモと野菜のソテー添え

Sautéed chicken thigh with pillowy potatoes and veggies. Generous, tender, and beautifully sweet.

✧ ･ﾟ : * ⋆ ⁺ ₊ ⋆ ☾ ⋆ ⁺ ₊ ⋆ ✧ ･ﾟ : * : ･ﾟ ✧ ⋆ ⁺ ₊ ⋆ ☾ ⋆ ⁺ ₊ ⋆ * : ﾟ･ ✧

What do you think? Each of these hearty, delicious, and healthy dishes is thoughtfully crafted by the friendly chef from Southern France. I hope the photos of main dishes and desserts that I've shared on this blog as a lunch diary series bring a little joy to your daily life—or perhaps inspire your next dining adventure in Tokyo!

And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, feel free to check out my previous post on the beautifully sweet yellow peach tart, too:

Tokyo’s Hidden Gem: A Delightful Lunch & Yellow Peach Tart at Bistro Quatre Avril

Wishing you many happy moments✨ filled with the joy of good food...

With love, Rose

Tokyo’s Hidden Gem: A Delightful Lunch & Yellow Peach Tart at Bistro Quatre Avril

2026-06-20T09:27:32.531+09:00

Hi everyone. You can already feel the touch of summer in the air. Today, I’m back with my usual lunch review of Bistro Quatre Avril 🍽️✨

Tarte aux peches jaunes

黄桃のタルト🍑

It’s rare for me, but I’m starting today’s post with a dessert before showing you the main lunch dish.

The dessert had a gentle sweetness, filled with wonderfully juicy yellow peaches. And whipped cream on the side is always a delightful touch, no matter which daily dessert is served. The yellow peach tart paired beautifully with my coffee as always.

Seriole roti sauce balzamique aux legumes de saison

ブリのロティバルサミコソース季節の野菜添え

For my main course, I went with the roasted yellowtail with balsamic reduction, served with seasonal vegetables. The fish dish was just as hearty and juicy as a meat course. Out of consideration for our health, the chef thoughtfully includes an abundance of vegetables.

Quatre Avril offers a few different lunch options that change every day. Please note that they are open for lunch on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM (L.O.).

If your travels ever bring you to Japan, I recommend stopping by this quiet Fudomae neighborhood.

Have a beautiful day❤︎❤︎

You can find my previous post on Bistro Quatre Avril here ↓
Bistro Quatre Avril Photo Diary: 5 Amazing Lunch Mains & Desserts (with a special twist🥺)

A Soft, Magical Rainbow in Michigan's Rainy Twilight Sky

2026-06-17T09:30:52.363+09:00

After my few days' stay at the hotel, we were driving to his place at dusk when the Michigan sky colored itself into gentle, impressive hues. Just as the sky was slipping into the soft pink moment, a massive rainbow arched gracefully over the horizon.

A beautiful rainbow arching in the pink dusk sky of Michigan,
captured from inside a car with raindrops on the windshield.

The rain seemed to have mostly stopped, but perhaps a few drops were still falling. In the rainy twilight, we encountered a rainbow—it felt like a serene, magical moment.

Sitting in the passenger seat, I kept snapping photos, trying to capture the rainbow he had pointed out to me while its colors were still at their most vibrant.

From now on, I will be spending the rest of my visit to Michigan at his place. Along with the gentle beauty the rainbow gave us, my heart was filled with anticipation for the life that was about to begin.

【Michigan Travelogue Special Reels Vol.12】Zachariah's in Mackinaw City

2026-06-14T23:00:00.000+09:00

"This is the final day of my 12-day special Michigan reels series.

Thank you so much for joining me and enjoying these memories!"