Book retreat: Travellers in Japan can stay at Book and Bed Tokyo, a hostel made for those who love getting lost in a good story. Guests sleep in compact pods built directly into bookshelves, surrounded by rows of novels and soft, warm light. Each pod includes basic comforts like bedding, a lamp, and a power outlet, creating a quiet space to peacefully unwind. The atmosphere is calm and hushed, much like a library, where guests naturally lower their voices. A shared lounge offers couches and cozy corners for reading or chatting with others. Away from Tokyo's constant rush, this small haven invites visitors to slow down, open a book, and enjoy the simple pleasure of reading before bed.

Canine connection: In Denton, Texas USA, mail carrier Ian Burke built an unexpected friendship with a lively dog called Floyd while working his delivery route. The friendly German Shepherd-Border Collie mix would rush to meet him each day, eager for attention and affection. Floyd's owner, a Vietnam veteran who used a wheelchair, relied on him for help and companionship. After Burke was assigned a new route, their visits ended. Some time later, he learned Floyd's owner had passed away and that the dog had been taken to a nearby shelter. Burke went straight there to adopt him, ensuring his old four-legged friend of a safe new home, and proving that dogs and mailmen can make the best of friends.

Beach artistry: Minister and sand sculptor Mark Lewis turns simple beach outings into works of art. Using only sand and basic tools, he builds remarkably realistic creations in Weymouth, England - from giant shoes to well-known film and cartoon figures. The hobby started years ago with his children and grew into a passion that draws crowds and inspires others to try it themselves. After learning professional sculpting methods, Lewis began shaping taller, more complex pieces that stand out along the shore until the tide washes them away. Each project is temporary by design, a fleeting display meant to bring joy to anyone who stumbles upon it. For him, the real reward is watching people pause, laugh, and take in the moment.

Renewed hands: After receiving a rare double hand transplant that changed his life, Luka Kriszanac is rebuilding his independence in Zurich, Switzerland. As a child, a severe infection left him without hands, but years later, surgeons at a hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA, made it possible for him to regain them. The operation involved carefully matching a donor with similar skin tone, bone structure, and blood type, followed by months of healing and therapy. Now, Kriszanac can hold everyday items, feel warmth and texture, and perform tasks once unimaginable. His recovery continues, but he views the result as nothing short of a miracle, and has a lasting bond with those who made it happen.

I can accept failure, everyone fails at something. But I can't accept not trying. ~ Michael Jordan

Well done is better than well said. ~ Benjamin Franklin

Speak For Yourself Toastmasters Club. Ever wanted to practice speaking in front of others? Come and see what we're all about, and meet some awesome people! Upper Riccarton Library, 71 Main South Road Sockburn, 6.15pm-8pm on Tuesdays. 0273996535

Volunteers required by the Down by the Liffey Gallery, Lincoln for monthly 3 hour shifts. Contact 3252832 for further details.

Free Courses Literacy and numeracy, digital literacy, Kiwi English, Learner Licence and more. For more information contact Literacy Christchurch, phone or text 022 6970478 or email info@literacychristchurch.org.nz

Spark Jump provides low-cost internet to homes with children under 18 but no broadband connection. No credit checks or contracts. Contact Addington.net on 962 7244 or book online at steppingup.nz

My Walking Group A friendly group of singles aged 45+ who have fun & friendship by walking and biking. 03 323 6232

Greater Hornby Residents Association. Meetings are held in the last Sunday of every month in the Hornby Rugby Clubrooms, Denton Park at 2pm. All welcome.

Tecorians a friendly club for people looking to gain confidence, stimulation or simply enjoy talking to interesting people. Meetings 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 7.30pm. Phone or text 021 395 587

Free notices for not for profits grace@coffeenews.co.nz

1. What is the only plant the Monarch caterpillar eats?

2. What is the actual colour of the sun?

3. The Shetland Islands are part of Ireland - T/F?

4. On a musical staff, what notation indicates G pitch?

5. Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy are introduced in this Louisa May Alcott book.

Space sweep: The familiar handheld vacuum owes its design to technology built for astronauts. A compact, battery-powered drill created for moon missions later inspired cordless cleaners, turning space-age problem-solving into a household convenience.

Soft starters: Newborns don't begin with the solid kneecaps adults have. Instead, theirs are made of flexible cartilage that bends more easily. Over time, this material slowly transforms, giving children the stronger bone structure needed for walking and running.

Decay dilemma: Tooth decay is one of the world's most widespread diseases, affecting nearly everyone at some stage. It begins when bacteria turns sugars into acid, slowly wearing teeth down, but good brushing and diet choices can greatly reduce the risk.

Sky sparks: Around the world, lightning flashes about a hundred times every second. Each strike carries immense energy, reminding us that the planet's skies are constantly alive with bursts of natural electricity.

Beat twist: The Beatles' name may have started as a playful nod to Buddy Holly's band, the Crickets. First called The Beetles, the spelling later shifted to include beat, creating the famous title that stuck forever.

Why would Snow White make a good judge? Because she is the fairest of them all.

How well did the cat do in school? Purrfect, he was the teacher's pet.

Did you hear about the old joke about cake? It's pretty stale.

Policeman: Excuse me, this is a one-way street. Motorist: That's OK, I'm only going one way.

1. Milkweed such as swan plants 2. White 3. False, Scotland 4. Treble or G clef 5. Little Women