A sweet little lunch, sweet mistakes, and a warm cup of coffee ☕️

A small, happy moment at Holiday Inn Express, Birmingham, Michigan

After my morning exploring downtown, I headed back to the hotel.

Unfortunately, the storage space and shelves were dusty, so I had to wipe off the dust myself before I could put my things away and arrange them on the shelves. Since I’m staying here for six days, I want to arrange my everyday items in a comfortable, convenient way.

Another small letdown was that a certain part of the wallpaper was wrinkled and quite loose (I cropped that part out of the photo). It wouldn’t be an expensive repair, and once fixed, I think future guests could enjoy a much more pleasant and comfortable stay.

Still, I was really happy with the interior of my Holiday Inn Express guest room. Sitting at the desk facing the wall, with sunlight streaming in from the side, felt so open and peaceful. Staying in the hotel room itself also turned into a lovely, refreshing change from my everyday routine.

Like this, I set up my laptop from Japan and studied here too — did lots of searching as well.  

One of the best things about traveling is that just being somewhere different makes everything feel fresh and fun.

Then I came back to the room with fresh coffee from the breakfast area — there’s a coffee machine that’s available 24/7. I pulled out the mixed berries and Greek yogurt from Whole Foods, plus the Danish and muffin I grabbed to go from breakfast (sorry, I just wanted to enjoy it here just once!).

Turns out, the Danish and muffin were super sweet — way too sweet, couldn’t finish them…😅

Lesson learned: from now on, at the breakfast area, I’ll just stick to the freshly made warm items😊

So… at this hotel, I’ll skip the super-sweet stuff and just go for the warm, fresh biscuits and cinnamon rolls "at" the breakfast area😄

Michigan’s First Starbucks Reserve Bar in Birmingham’s Ford Building

This Starbucks is on the same street as sweetgreen and PARIS BAGUETTE. I recently learned that this impressive, historic-looking building is the Ford Building, constructed in 1896 by a local businessman named Frank Ford. The first tenant here was Levinson’s, the first department store in Birmingham, Michigan. Founded by Jewish immigrants Morris and Gitel Levinson, Levinson’s occupied the prominent corner space of the Ford Building as its main tenant.

101 N. Old Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009, U.S.A.

Today, that very corner is home to Starbucks, which opened there in 2017 as the first Starbucks Reserve Bar in Michigan. 

Starbucks Reserve Bar in Birmingham is an upscale version of Starbucks that focuses on high‑quality, small‑lot coffees and handcrafted drinks. Compared with a regular Starbucks, it offers exclusive Reserve beans, special brewing methods like pour‑over and nitro cold brew, and a more premium, lounge‑like atmosphere.

Historic plaque describing the history of the Ford Building

Although I didn’t get a chance to stop in this time, wandering around Birmingham led me to discover a piece of history I’d never noticed before, and now downtown Birmingham feels just a little more familiar and personal to me🌷

Scouting sweetgreen & PARIS BAGUETTE: Healthy Bites and Elegant Treats in Birmingham

After enjoying a morning stroll along Poppleton Street, it’s time to explore downtown Birmingham. Since I’ll be staying at a hotel here for several days, I want to get a good sense of the area on my own.

I wanted to get a clear picture of where sweetgreen and PARIS BAGUETTE are because they were the first places that caught my interest during my initial research. 

Let’s start by taking a closer look at PARIS BAGUETTE😀

PARIS BAGUETTE is a global bakery chain originating from Korea. Indeed, the Strawberry Soft Cream Cake especially seems to cater to Japanese tastes, with its fluffy sponge base and generous fresh cream. Every cake here has an elegant quality to it.

I’d love to try the EGG Salad Sandwich, and the packaging’s message, "Freshly made to make your day," is really heartwarming.

Their products are also appealing because they use fresh ingredients and keep additives to a minimum.

Cozy yet chic seating area inside PARIS BAGUETTE, downtown Birmingham, Michigan☕✨

Could it be that this bakery’s philosophy to French-style methods and natural flavors is also reflected in a twist on these American-style cookies?

Since I plan to have something sweet in my hotel room for lunch today, I'm just browsing here. I’ll definitely come back again because it’s such a lovely café!　Next up is...

.. sweetgreen, right next to PARIS BAGUETTE. I thought it would be a great choice to get plenty of vegetables and enjoy healthy meals during my stay in Birmingham, so I added it to my list of places to visit. This store seems to have locations all across the United States.

Customizing everything still feels a bit overwhelming for me, so yeah, this is it! When I come for a meal, I’ll just try the Autumn Harvest Bowl😙♪

I learned a wonderful story. At that time, campus cafeterias’ fast food was convenient but not healthy, while healthy food took time and was expensive. Graduates who believed in the power of real food redefined fast food for a new era: fast, convenient, delicious, and healthy. They also made it affordable. The first store was opened by these three university students in Washington DC. Their vision is now being realized nationwide in the U.S.

I’ve checked out two great spots, sweetgreen and PARIS BAGUETTE, and I memorized the route from my hotel. I’ll be sharing posts soon about my visits to each of these places. So please come back and visit my blog again♡　

Homes, Greenery, and Quiet Wonder — A Morning around Poppleton Street, Birmingham

After enjoying my first breakfast at the Holiday Inn, I stepped out for a morning stroll along Poppleton Street. It’s the kind of walk that feels like a tiny adventure — simple, quiet, yet full of small discoveries.

I wanted to walk along Poppleton Street again, to relive the memories it holds in the stillness of the morning. It was a stroll that began around nine thirty that morning.

Birmingham is said to be one of the most desirable places to live in Michigan. I used to walk around here often, admiring the many charming houses along the streets. The sense of peace and the harmony between the greenery and the homes are what make it even more beautiful.

Oh, I remember this house! It really feels as if I’ve slipped back in time. Even while I was far away in Japan, the world of Birmingham has stayed just as lovely as I remember.

This is the house Collie pointed out last evening when we were walking together, saying, “Look, a pink house over there.”  I had planned to come back on my own the next morning to take some photos of it at a slower pace.  

I find myself wondering what stories might be unfolding inside — it really sparks my imagination.

Just off Poppleton Street, I came across another beautiful scene like this. An elegant house, adorned with delicate flowers, stood gracefully behind the veil of rich greenery — such a charming sight.

In this way, the quiet residential streets of Birmingham always bring me a sense of peace and quiet wonder. For me, it’s not the well-known tourist spots that refresh my spirit, but these serene neighborhoods — where nature and everyday life blend together, and where I can see so many beautiful homes unlike any in Japan.

Holiday Inn Express Breakfast Day One—Plus the Sweet Story Behind the Cinnamon Rolls

Discover the Iconic Cinnamon Roll That’s Delighting Guests Nationwide 

Hello!＾＾ Continuing my Michigan travel diary.

Today, it's the scene of my first breakfast at the Holiday Inn Express Birmingham where I'm staying.

The Holiday Inn Express offers a free hot breakfast, and among the items, the warm and fresh cinnamon rolls are especially distinctive. Honestly, I was looking forward to the cinnamon rolls ever since I researched the hotel beforehand.

☆Complimentary Express Start Breakfast Bar at Holiday Inn Express, Birmingham, MI☆

The coffee machine brews each cup fresh on the spot, so it's just right to bring additional food while the coffee is being made. There was yogurt available too, so I didn't have to buy it at Whole Foods💦  

I might secretly take the packaged Danish pastry to my room (because I might get too full from the other foods...)

♡Holiday Inn Express's signature hot & fresh Cinnabon Sweet Roll♡

The cinnamon roll I'd been longing for was absolutely delicious! Savoring delicious cinnamon rolls and fresh coffee makes for such a delightful experience in the morning away from my usual spot.

Here is a wonderful insight you might find surprising:

Holiday Inn Express serves Cinnabon Sweet Rolls as a signature part of their complimentary Express Start Breakfast Bar. These rolls are made with Cinnabon's famous Makara cinnamon, brown sugar, cinnamon schmear, and topped with the brand's iconic cream cheese frosting. However, the version served at Holiday Inn Express is slightly adapted for the hotel setting: the rolls are smaller in size and have a milder sweetness compared to the original Cinnabon rolls sold in stores. This makes them a perfect breakfast item, offering the signature taste with a lighter touch suited for morning dining. This partnership allows guests to enjoy the beloved Cinnabon experience conveniently during their stay.

The coffee was served in a generous size, but I had another cup to enjoy with the lovely cinnamon roll. The breakfast at Holiday Inn Express Birmingham was very satisfying.

＋　＋　＋

Before heading out of my hotel room, I left a pillow tip for the housekeeper. I thought 1 dollar might be a little too small with prices going up, but since I am Japanese and not used to tipping culture, even 1 dollar felt like a tip to me.

To be continued...

Perfect Soy Milk Find: First Day Shopping at Whole Foods Birmingham, MI

After having dinner at Birmingham Sushi Cafe, Collie suggested we stop by Whole Foods Market to pick up anything I might need.  

2100 E Maple Rd, Birmingham, MI 48009, United States

Since I’ll be staying for six days at the Holiday Inn Express in Birmingham — Collie kindly booked the hotel I picked — he wanted to make sure I’d have something I like from Whole Foods Market.

As the hotel includes breakfast, I thought I wouldn't need much during my stay, but the first thing that came to mind was soy milk.

That said, just wandering around Whole Foods to see what products they have is fun in itself and feels like sightseeing♪♪♪

We browsed around, and here's what Collie bought for me😊: a fresh pack of berries, some organic chocolate I wanted to taste-test, low-sugar yogurt, and soy milk that's perfect for my taste!

The 1 QT (946 ml) size soy milk is just right for my six-day hotel stay. It’s organic and has no sugar added, exactly what I was looking for. I learned that the "365 WHOLE FOODS MARKET" label is Whole Foods Market's private brand, offering high-quality products at more affordable prices. That’s wonderful♡

After he walked me to my hotel room, Collie headed to his mother's house, where he's currently helping care for her. It felt a bit lonely watching him leave after spending the whole day together. Since he booked it for two people, I wondered if he'd join me sometimes? With that hopeful thought, I ended the first night of my stay.

*To be continued...*

Birmingham Sushi Caffe Experience & Reflecting on Missed Moments at Sushi Japan

After our walk in Birmingham, we decided to go for dinner at Sushi Japan. It was one of the places I had looked up back in Japan and really wanted to visit in Birmingham. Since I’m not very familiar with the area, Collie quickly checked the map on his phone and led us there. It was actually his first time too, but I really appreciated how proactively he took the lead in finding the place.

Google Maps showed it should be open, however, there was a notice saying it was closed today due to an urgent matter or something like that. Inside, there was a man who looked Japanese working alone. Collie asked me, “How about you talk to him?” but I held back.

The back entrance of Birmingham Sushi Cafe

377 Hamilton Row, Birmingham, MI 48009

Plans changed abruptly! We came to another sushi restaurant, Birmingham Sushi Cafe. Once again, Collie checked the location on his phone for us. 

This was a casual sushi restaurant where Asian staff who were not Japanese worked. Collie and I each ordered two types of sushi rolls. About six sliced pieces of each kind—four rolls in total—were served together on one plate. It was more filling than we expected!

Sitting by the window, we enjoyed sushi with a view of Downtown Birmingham in the evening. Between the walk on Poppleton Street and my choice of sushi restaurants, my plans in Birmingham are being put into action quickly on my first day in Michigan, thanks to Collie.

I think what I ordered was the Spicy Salmon Roll. The orange sauce poured over it is the spicy sauce. The other one was the Spicy California Roll, which contains crab salad and avocado inside. In the back, you can see the sushi roll Collie ordered, which has shrimp tempura inside.

And this is Collie's "Philadelphia." It’s a roll made with smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber. Since Collie couldn’t finish his portion, I managed to eat the rest! =3

Birmingham Sushi Cafe is a laid-back sushi restaurant that hits the spot when you want to enjoy some sushi without any fuss.

On the other hand, it was disappointing that Sushi Japan was unexpectedly closed today. As a Japanese person, I want to experience sushi run by Japanese owners.

Afterwards, when I was exploring Birmingham alone, I visited Sushi Japan, but it was closed and there was no one there. Now, writing this blog after returning from Michigan, I looked it up and found that it is listed as "permanently closed".

I wish I had mustered the courage to speak to the Japanese man inside when I first visited with Collie. At that time, I thought it would be fine to talk when I visited again while it was open. 

I might have been able to say something to support the Japanese person working hard in Michigan—that thought crosses my mind now.

A Quiet Evening Walk Together on Poppleton Street, Birmingham, Michigan

This is probably my seventeenth visit to Michigan. After checking into the hotel in Birmingham that Collie had booked for me(us), he asked me what I'd like to do with the rest of the evening. I suggested that we take a walk together along Poppleton Street.

I’ve been to Birmingham several times before, and it’s one of my favorite places in Michigan. I wanted to walk along this Poppleton Street with Collie—a street I used to stroll often, one that had left a lasting impression on me.

While living in Japan, I try to study English at my own pace and focus on finding happiness in my everyday life in a way that feels true to myself. Spending time alone happily is important and right, but maybe I'm also consciously tying to do that because otherwise, I might start wondering why we live so far apart and begin to feel uncertain. So when I finally come to Michigan and see him in front of me, I feel a quiet pause inside me as I try to adjust my heart to being here again.

On the first day of October, I stepped off the sidewalk onto Poppleton Street to take a photo. Though it was already evening, the sun was still bright, pouring a warm light over the quiet neighborhood.

↑

Collie was taking this photo of me from behind! ^o^

It was a warm October, and the leaves were just beginning to change color.

The autumn colors were starting to show, glowing softly in the sparkling sunlight.

A large residence near Poppleton Street, Birmingham, Michigan

In no time, I was walking along the nostalgic Poppleton Street with Collie the very day I arrived in Michigan. The hotel was booked for six days, mostly for me; he hadn’t really stayed there. He is currently busy taking care of his mother, visiting her daily to check on her condition, so he doesn’t have much time to spend with me. Even so, I'm truly thankful to have come all the way because I can meet him in person like this, basking in the comfort of his gentle smile.

Tomorrow morning, I will take a walk along this street again on my own. I'd love to experience the morning atmosphere of Poppleton Street too. Just like I do in Japan, I will take some personal time here happily and meaningfully. The time spent with him is a treasure. The time spent alone is also a treasure, made even more meaningful because of him. Because we are connected in our hearts.

My First Delta Comfort Experience: Three Meals and Airport Frenzy

Whenever I went to Michigan, I always flew economy to save some money. But this time, I decided to treat myself and booked [Delta Comfort] for the first time. It’s just one step up from [Delta Main](economy class). The legroom is a bit more spacious, and while the meals are pretty much the same, the nice perk is boarding earlier in Zone 3, which means I can settle in and relax a little sooner. 

There’s no more drink & snack service right after boarding like before COVID. These days, the welcome drinks are offered starting from [Delta Premium Select] (one class above [Delta Comfort]) and in [Delta One](the highest business class).

So, when the dinner service started, I asked for sparkling wine🥛as my first drink, enjoying the feeling of a welcome drink♪ The sparkling wine is no longer served in a small, cute bottle like before; instead, it comes in a recyclable can, which I found quite stylish and delicious.

Delta dinner plate

During dinner, I had red wine for my second drink. It was rich and enjoyable.

The seat layout in [Delta Comfort] is 3 (left) - 3 (center) - 3 (right), 

while in [Delta Premium Select] it is 2 (left) - 4 (center) - 2 (right). 

Since I prefer to spend my time as comfortably as possible in my seat, I like the aisle seat in the middle section of [Delta Comfort]’s 3 (center) layout. This is because I believe it has the lowest probability of having to get up when other passengers stand to go to the restroom.

[Delta Premium Select] offers wider seat width and seat pitch, along with adjustable footrests and leg rests, plus perks like welcome drinks and meals served on real dishware. However, for me, sitting in the aisle seat in the middle section of [Delta Comfort] holds more value.

 PIZZA TWIST, traditional in-flight snack of Delta

This PIZZA TWIST thing was served as a light meal in the late night. I’m impressed with the creative way they made pizza easier to eat! It’s designed to be a convenient, tasty snack that fits well in the limited space of airplane service.

It was cold on the plane, and I felt chilled, so I asked for a warm cup of tea to accompany the midnight snack.

Delta morning plate

As we approached Detroit, it was time for breakfast. Although yakisoba(noodle) was also an option, I deliberately chose an omelet because I wanted to get some protein. For my drink, I had tomato juice, thinking about its beauty benefits.

There were curious sounds of cats meowing—probably someone had smuggled a cat on board—and babies crying, but my first time on [Delta Comfort] was a good flight. As usual, I also enjoyed the movies.

Near the airport exit at Detroit

Having safely passed through customs, I sent a message to Collie saying, "I've arrived ^^♪" 

Calls and SMS are possible with Biglobe Mobile’s international roaming, but data communication is not. (For data, I use GlocalMe’s pocket WiFi.) While I was wondering whether to turn data roaming ON or OFF on my smartphone, Collie appeared quickly! We hugged after a long time apart, but Rose went back to worrying about the data roaming issue.

Collie laughed and said, "Is your smartphone more important than me?" Rose replied, "No, Collie, you’re the most important, and I hugged you first!" Rose returned to checking the data roaming —because setting it wrong could lead to a huge bill...

I later found out that the correct setting was to turn data roaming OFF on my smartphone, and for safety, also turn mobile data OFF.

It was a somewhat rushed reunion (sorry, Collie), but from here, our three weeks together in Michigan begin🌷

See you nest time...  Rose

And Now, Off to Michigan! – The Beginning of a New Journey

It’s been about two years and four months since I last visited Michigan. Just like last time, I just stopped by the SKY LOUNGE for a cup of coffee before my flight. I’d always flown out of Narita Airport, so this is only my second time flying from Haneda to Detroit.

Since I have a Saison American Express Gold Card, I’m an eligible credit card member. By showing my card at reception, I can enter the SKY LOUNGE. Also, when I purchase my ticket with this card, travel insurance for the U.S. is automatically included.

I didn’t have much time that day, but I couldn’t pass up the chance for at least a coffee break! I placed my cup on the table just for a little photo memory—can you spot it? ^^  Unfortunately, it was drizzling outside. I grabbed a quick coffee and then headed off.

Then came the long, long walk to the Delta gate for the Detroit flight. It really pays to head out early.

This time, my train was delayed due to the gloomy weather, and I barely made it to the airport on time. I was relieved to make it in time for boarding! Browsing the tempting airport shops and enjoying a snack before takeoff will have to wait until next time.

The journey starts here.  I will start my new travel chapter. 

And now, off to Michigan!

President Trump's First 100 days Rally in Warren, Michigan 20250429

President Trump celebrates his first 100 days in Warren, Michigan. 

Why not enjoy this video over a beer and snacks? Congratulations!

What great people. I love you Michigan, who laid the railroads, worked the factories, tilled the fields, forged the steel, fought the battles, and won the victories that built the Motor City and made this state into the pride of the American Midwest. Under our leadership, we are making it greater every single day.      + President Trump +

Leaving Michigan & Lovely Rose Cake

It's the morning I leave Michigan for Tokyo.  The two of us went out of the house for a while.

We saw a rose bush Collie was growing. He was growing roses while we couldn't meet for years. It was a type of rose with few petals. What is the rose called? The delicate petals look like a lady's skirt.

I'm all set for leaving Michigan for flying back to Tokyo. This is the room I use when I stay at his house. I look at it for the last time, saying thank you in my heart.

Then he drove me to Detroit Metropolitan Airport. We skipped breakfast at home to get there earlier. I didn't really think about it when I booked the airline ticket of Delta Air Lines, but later I realized the ticket didn't allow me to reserve a return-trip seat to Tokyo in advance. My ticket was "Basic" Economy and was Delta's most reasonable fare class that came with more restrictions from Economy. I'll have to line up to get my seat at the boarding gate on the day.

We usually spend time together at the airport as long as possible before I go through the security check. But this time, he hurried so that I could get a better seat. "If you are going to feel cramped between big Americans, I'd better endure the shorter time we can be together at the airport!"

He carries my ponderous suitcase easily. （❤︎ ❤︎）

He walks on so fast carrying my heavy suitcase.（❤︎ ❤︎）（❤︎ ❤︎）（❤︎ ❤︎） Wow! He is super cool. 

Thanks for helping me out.  Collie, you're the best!!!

He helped me to check in, too. Then we sat and began to eat sandwiches Collie made quickly at his house in the morning. In the sandwich, there was lettuce that he washed for dinner last night and kept some for our quick sandwiches at the airport. He also prepared nuts etc.

Facing the security check, we eat breakfast. We don't have time to chill somewhere more relaxing because of my Basic Economy ticket. ( ;  ; )  While I was eating, he took a selfie of us. There were a few tears in my eyes. I am happy with him... I have to go soon.... I was smiling but my heart was crying. 

Before long, the time came. I began standing in line for the security check and he saw me off as I proceeded. I turned around and looked at him, again and again. And finally, I waved at him and disappeared from his sight.

This travelogue was written about what happened in June 2023 in Michigan. When Covid-19 travel restrictions were lifted in the United States, I flied to Michigan for the first time in 5 years to see Collie. After the sparkling stay, I returned to Tokyo and resumed my work at an advertising agency.

In July 2023.  I received a picture expressing birthday wishes from Collie. 

Birthday cake with rose shaped cream on top!  And roses arranged in a small vase must be the ones he grew! Rose cake and real roses for Rose. What a lovely presentation🌹  Thanks a million, Collie!!

A video was sent on Google besides a picture.

Near the whole cake, there is a pair of chopsticks I gave him as a present.  Collie is playful. （^ ^。

I've been counting on him every birthday since I met him. He is my everything and birthday wishes from him are special. Thank you Collie, from the bottom of my heart...

If I'm given another chance to fly to Michigan, I will treat myself with Premium Select. It is Delta's premium economy seat class and more comfortable than Economy. 

He has made everything beautiful in its time.  I will look forward to that time.

Best of luck and thank you for everything, Rose