A Thoughtful Farewell

A fun group of Japanese who enjoyed our crowd.

Makiko and Kiori

Kathrina and Mickey , how I will miss them, we have had some great times.

He was the only one who could speak English from his group of friends. They had a blast with us. I think they were fixing to throw us all out right before we all left.

Konichiwa, I was not kidding when I said our calendar was full of events. Even now, when I see people at the BX or post office, and they ask when are you leaving, and when can we get together. I feel blessed that so many friends want to spend time with us, but there are only so many hours in the day. Last night we had the pleasure of spending time with some squadron friends during our farewell dinner off base. Makiko and Kiori are two of the JN's who have been so kind to us since day one always asking "When can we take you out". About a group of 20 all went out to dinner last night. This place was pretty awesome. Typically, most restaurants will give you 2 hours for drinking and eating on a set price. This place was unlimited, yes that is right, all you can drink, 8 course meal for as long as you can last. It is a very difficult place to get reservations, so this had been booked in advance. I would say the place could hold about 40 people. So yes you guessed it, put 4o American and Japanese people in one small room, and after an hour it starts to get pretty interesting and rowdy. Rene and I took it easy, as we have learned the older you get, the less tolerance you have for alcohol. It was a blast and heart warming that so many came out to spend this wonderful evening with us. This morning we woke up very early to go meet our running buddies for one last run and breakfast. They to are so special to us and we hope one day we will all be able to meet somewhere in the states. This has been such an overwhelming time for me. It is so hard to say goodbye, and I for one hate goodbye's. Tomorrow it is Karaoke again with the running buddies. Fun!