Dear Diary, 

Sometimes something as simple as paper can have an enormous effect on you. I can be a sap when someone gives me a really good, thoughtful gift, but when I learned about Mizuhiki, I saw how things could get a lot more gushy. Mizuhiki is the art of hand tied paper cords that can be symbolic of the gift giver's feelings towards the gift receiver, or as a symbol of good fortune. I can only imagine the tears that would fall if someone handed me a gift and the intricate knot was a symbol of our love. While I wipe the tears away, let me tell you more about it. 

Each Mizuhiki is like a tiny piece of art made of delicate loops and twists, forming intricate patterns that seem to dance across the surface of the paper. Some designs resemble elegant flowers, with petals unfurling in a burst of color. Others mimic the graceful curves of traditional Japanese motifs, like waves or cherry blossoms swaying in the breeze. All of this is done, of course, with nothing but the paper cords themselves. No glue, staples, or any of that amateur gift giving BS. And on the plus side, it ensures no one else is able to open the gift or the cords will be bent and broken and everyone will know you tried to steal the gift. You can always blame it on the Tanuki. 

The colors used in Mizuhiki often hold specific meanings. Red represents joy and happiness, while white symbolizes purity and cleanliness. Gold embodies wealth and prosperity, and silver signifies longevity and purity of heart. The combination of these colors in Mizuhiki arrangements adds layers of meaning and depth to the art form and completely elevates the honor of gift giving. But, Mizuhiki isn't limited to just gift giving; it's integrated into traditional Japanese ceremonies and rituals. From Shinto weddings to Buddhist funerals, Mizuhiki symbolizes good fortune, blessings, and respect for tradition. 

I’ve even seen them in shops all over Japan. You can buy Mizuhiki jewelry, bookmarks, decorative journals, and good luck charms. Better yet, you can buy a how-to book and make them yourself. 

Stuffing my suitcase now, 

Xoxo, 

Maria