The journey behind TOKYO SUSHI DATE NITE
Some traditions are well worth savoring! Recently, Steve and I celebrated our wedding anniversary. Thirty-two years ago, he proposed to me over dinner at a sushi restaurant, and ever since then we’ve celebrated each anniversary the very same way—with a special sushi date night.
It’s a tradition we look forward to every year.
As we sat across the table this year, we found ourselves talking once again about our trip to Tokyo. We reminisced about the tiny neighborhood sushi bars, watching talented chefs prepare beautiful meals right before our eyes, and wandering charming side streets in search of our next unforgettable bite.
By the time dessert arrived, inspiration had already struck.
When we got home, I couldn’t wait to begin illustrating TOKYO – Sushi Date Night, the newest addition to the Dog in the Kitchen™ Journey Collection.
Like all of the illustrations in this series, the art is inspired by the feeling of being there—the warm glow of a neighborhood sushi bar, the quiet companionship of sharing a favorite meal, and the memories that stay with you long after the trip is over.
This time, I decided to do something a little different.
Instead of sharing a recipe from the kitchen, I created a recipe from the heart.
A blast from the past Tokyo 2003
BRING HOME THE TASTE OF TOKYO
The new recipe mug featuring this delicious recipe is now available with much more down the trail ahead!! Thank you for traveling along
RECIPE for a HeartDog
A no-cooking recipe for a bond that endures a lifetime.
Ingredients
- Take turns taking the lead.
- A generous helping of patience.
- Regular sushi date nights (or whatever makes you both smile).
- Shared adventures, both near and far.
- Plenty of treats… for dogs and people.
- Kind words served daily.
- A sense of humor for the unexpected.
- Extra snuggles whenever needed.
- Dreams of places you’ll visit together someday.
- A lifetime supply of gratitude.
Directions
- Mix together a little every day.
- Let laughter rise naturally.
- Celebrate the little things.
- Never stop making new memories.
- Repeat for a lifetime.
No timer.
No special equipment.
Just love, patience, and someone worth sharing the journey with.
Here’s to all the little traditions that quietly become the best parts of our lives.
Happy Anniversary, Steve. Heres to the next 32 and beyond!!
Love, Sandra
Whether you’re celebrating decades together or just beginning your journey, this recipe for love reminds us that the most meaningful connections aren’t rushed. A true recipe for love requires time, intention, and the willingness to create shared moments—whether over sushi in Tokyo or a quiet dinner at home. The beauty of this recipe for love is its simplicity: it asks only that we show up, stay present, and cherish the person beside us. So take this recipe for love to heart, and remember that the best traditions are the ones we build together, one cherished memory at a time.
