Setsubun

I’m missing the first day of spring in Japan.
Today is Setsubun. All around the country, people are throwing dried soy beans to scare away demons and bring good luck for the beginning of the lunar year. (It’s not actually done on the lunar new year anymore but close enough, I suppose.)
When I return to Japan, the plum trees that herald spring will be in full bloom. I’m looking forward to seeing them and feeling the mild weather. I’m getting a little bit tired of Pennsylvania winter…
Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!