During our final week in Japan we had to say a lot of goodbyes, but we also got the chance to share gifts and thank you’s (arigatōgosaimas’s) to all of the people we met during our time here.
Loved this last post and the lovely sentiments expressed. Loved the scroll and other gifts as well. Welcome back to the US. Edi and I send our warmest regards and lots of love. Arigato! Fred
Katelyn, what an amazing time you have had. You dived into the culture, the adventures, the language. This is something you will remember always. I love how you kept us up to date on what you were learning. I learned many new things, and relived many others with you. Maple syrup and apple pie!! Perfect! Sending you warm hugs as you navigate saying good-bye to friends, and prepare for new surroundings.
Oh Katelyn, Thank you for this wonderful steady effort to keep us aware of what you are all doing, feeling, learning, etc. My heart goes out to you as you have to say goodbye. (Apple pie and maple syrup! What awesome gifts!) It is clear how much you have all really engaged with the culture and the landscape and the people. I am holding you in my arms as you make this transition. Big hugs to everyone! - Susie
Bitter sweet endings. Thanks for taking everyone to Japan with you for the experience! 💜💜💜💜
Questions: How have the girls been dealing with goodbyes in their last days before the move? I know they are great travelers but each year they get older and have more meaningful connections.🤷♀️
…aaaand….
How have I never noticed… and what is the military significance of officers standing at attention with closed fists? Curious🤷♀️
Safe travels at the end of your week. Wile E too! 💜 Mom/Gram
The kids are doing pretty well so far. They are sad to leave, but we have lots to look forward to on the other side. And saying goodbye is inevitable because a lot of our friends are leaving too!
Fun kakejiku.
The ceremony and uniforms: wonderful! So glad it was such a positive experience! 🗾🇯🇵
Yes, the giftgiving back-and-forth! So special. 🫶🏼
Katelyn,
Loved this last post and the lovely sentiments expressed. Loved the scroll and other gifts as well. Welcome back to the US. Edi and I send our warmest regards and lots of love. Arigato! Fred
Safe travels to you all! Please keep us updated on your adventures home and all the experiences to come!!
Katelyn, what an amazing time you have had. You dived into the culture, the adventures, the language. This is something you will remember always. I love how you kept us up to date on what you were learning. I learned many new things, and relived many others with you. Maple syrup and apple pie!! Perfect! Sending you warm hugs as you navigate saying good-bye to friends, and prepare for new surroundings.
what a wonderful experience. lucky girls.
Can't wait to hear about your adventures! And see you soon!!!
Oh Katelyn, Thank you for this wonderful steady effort to keep us aware of what you are all doing, feeling, learning, etc. My heart goes out to you as you have to say goodbye. (Apple pie and maple syrup! What awesome gifts!) It is clear how much you have all really engaged with the culture and the landscape and the people. I am holding you in my arms as you make this transition. Big hugs to everyone! - Susie
Thanks Susie! Hope we can see you when we get back to the East Coast!
Bitter sweet endings. Thanks for taking everyone to Japan with you for the experience! 💜💜💜💜
Questions: How have the girls been dealing with goodbyes in their last days before the move? I know they are great travelers but each year they get older and have more meaningful connections.🤷♀️
…aaaand….
How have I never noticed… and what is the military significance of officers standing at attention with closed fists? Curious🤷♀️
Safe travels at the end of your week. Wile E too! 💜 Mom/Gram
As for the stance...I assume they had to decide on something for everyone to do with their hands, and rock beat paper and scissors.
The kids are doing pretty well so far. They are sad to leave, but we have lots to look forward to on the other side. And saying goodbye is inevitable because a lot of our friends are leaving too!
You four leave such a great impression on everyone you meet! Goodbyes are difficult but more adventures are ahead as well as lots of new friends!
I like the JMSDF medallion 👍🏻
I can’t believe you are leaving already! Any chance you’ll be in Tokyo? I was really hoping we could meet up!
I know! Our time here has been way too short! I'm sorry we didn't get to meet up, but maybe in DC??