Farewells and Goodbyes and such

Well, the adventure is over, and much like most of my time in Japan it's been bittersweet. Took a trip to Shizuoka over the weekend to say goodbye to everyone. I had a great time, but it was pretty sad as well. About 25 of us went to nomihodai at my favorite izakaya. Afterwards some of us headed to a couple hours of karaoke, and once that ended some of us headed to a couple more hours of karaoke. The end of the night--or morning--was spent winding down in Denny's with Ainsley and Mick. I made it back to David's place around 9am, and ran into three Nova teachers on their way to work.

The next day I wandered around reflecting. I decided it was best to head home that night--I had originally planned to stay for three days. I met Ainsley for kaitenzushi (that's the conveyer-belt sushi) and icecream, and then it was time to say goodbye. Then I met Emi-chan at the station to say goodbye to her. Depressing.

I did learn a few things while I was there, though: 1. I'm getting really sick of saying goodbye. 2. Feelings of nostalgia are hard to overcome, but sometimes common-sense has to take priority. Since I left Shizuoka not much has changed but the people. And while I do like the people, I'm not ready to be so stagnant. That's not to say that everyone there is in a rut, but if I had stayed I would be.

Anyway, the past two days have been spent packing, cleaning, and running last minute errands. I have to be out of the apartment by noon, but my flight isn't till around 7pm. Unfortunately, there's not much I can do with all my luggage, so I'll be passing time with a book in the airport. Silver-lining: It only takes about an hour to get to Kansai airport, and it costs less than 1,500 yen. That's compared to almost four hours and around 15,000 yen to Narita airport from Shizuoka.

To the friends I'm leaving: Thanks for everything. Goodtimes, and bad, you made the experience worthwhile. I hope you stay in touch.

To Emi: Chin up. Everything will be ok.

To Ainz: See you soon. Don't know what I'll do without your texts in the meantime, though.

To David: Thanks again. You're a great guy, and a superb roommate.

To Fuz: Enjoy the rest of your time in Nippon. Good luck back home. Keep me updated.

To my friends in the States: Hope to see you soon. I'll let you know when I get a phone number.