This is it

"Country roads, take me home

To the place I belong." 

(John Denver's "Take me Home, Country Roads." As sung by my students during English lessons with S-sensei and I.)

My last night in Japan. There's so much to say, but my mind's racing and I've still got to re-arrange my carry-on luggage. I bought a bunch of last-minute omiyage, but I have no idea how it'll fit in this bag. 

Honestly, it feels like only yesterday I got the placement letter with those life-changing words: Motomiya City, Fukushima Prefecture. I'm so thankful I took a leap of faith. I know a few friends and relatives back in Canada are surprised I've stuck it out in Japan for so long. But Fuku's carved a wonderful spot in my heart. "I love you, baby, Fukushima." 

The Tohoku disaster will always be etched in my mind, but the good memories will remain at the forefront. I've met some amazing, amazing people out here. Students. FuJETs. Teachers. Locals. The list goes on. 

I'm also thankful that Japan has reunited me with my second-cousin, M., and his wife. This couple, as well has Buster the Maine Coon, have been so hospitable and generous since moving to the land of the rising sun. They were an immense comfort to me when I was still shell-shocked from March 11. 

I left Motomiya on July 31. I spent a few days in Tokyo, followed by an epic trip to Taipei. It was extremely nice to have some time to chill with two of my fave Koriyama girls, Roretta-chan and Jacqui-chan. D., aka #4, was the perfect addition to the crew. He basically planned out our itinerary, and put up with three girls who constantly whined about the ridiculous humidity in Taiwan. (It was freakin' hot).

Upon returning to Tokyo, I've been busy having final hangouts with old friends and my cousins. I've also squeezed in some time for shopping and a haircut at Toni & Guy in Harajuku. I will miss Tokyo just as much as my slice of countryside.

Three years ago, I wrote in my first blog entry: "Here's to expecting the unexpected."

Boy, did I stick to that motto. Thanks for everything, Japan. ほんとうにありがとうございました。