I stopped by a drugstore.
Near the entrance, I saw rows of throat lozenges.
“Ah, it’s that time of year again.”
The weather is getting colder.
The air is getting drier.
Time to take care of our throats.
Maybe I should keep some lozenges in my bag.
But throat lozenges come in different types.
Some are sweets.
Others are medicines.
Too many can sometimes irritate the mouth.
I try to soothe my throat.
And end up with a sore mouth instead.
Moderation isn’t always easy.
Osaka’s Candy-Loving Aunties
Meanwhile, in Osaka, some older women have a charming habit.
They carry little candies in their handbags.
These candies are affectionately called ame-chan.
Not just for themselves.
“Would you like a candy?”
Sometimes, they’re for sharing.
Throat lozenges are for soothing the throat.
But Osaka’s ame-chan can also start a conversation.
Drugstore displays change with the seasons.
But inside an Osaka auntie’s handbag?
It might be candy season all year round.
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