Thursday, August 17, 2006

Oh me oh my oh would you look at Miss Ohio

I guess I will start off being a little natsukashii. Our final week in Tokyo was wonderful. Perfect way to say goodbye to good friends and Japan. We ate good food, saw crazy people, shopped and even had a few good nights out. But leaving the hostel on the very last day was nothing short of heart breaking.

Like many relationships, Japan and I have definately had our ups and downs. But through all the mishaps and good times Japan has taught me many things about myself and life. I would also like the think I have taught Japan a little something along the way. Sitting in the airport alone was probably the most lonely I have felt in a long time. Many people from home just don't understand that we have/had a life in Japan. Friends, a home, belongings, and a job. Unless they come to visit and see what you do there, they only partially understand what is going on in your head and heart.

I figured when I arrived home I would be an emotional mess. Fortunately the opposite of that seems to be true. I am reaquainting myself with my friends and home which it has been nearly 6 years since I have lived here (including university). My friends have welcomed me home with open arms and family with the same loving criticisms. Makes me wonder why I have bashed Ohio all these years. It is a good place, and being here only makes me think about wanting to stay.

I am excited to travel to Australia and New Zealand, but I will be sad and a little disappointed to have to say goodbye yet again. Always saying goodbye. I am looking forward to settling in a place, and making good friends and building a life somewhere. I am still young and will continue to be adventurous, but perhaps a little more close to home.

The travel bug is in my genes. I can not get rid of it. I don't plan on quitting my hobby of seeing the world and experiencing other cultures.