Saying goodbye to a neighbor

While relaxing after dinner, the doorbell rang.  I hopped up and peered at the little screen connected to the camera at the door.  I pushed the speaker and notified the person I was coming with a quick "hai!"  It was our neighbor.  The family of a mom, dad, and little girl just older than our son had come over. 

The mom, who I've only had very simple conversations with while our children happily played together in the courtyard, timidly explained that they were moving on Saturday.  She brought us a small gift of cookies from their new prefecture, Kumamoto. 

Kumamoto is located in southern Japan.  It is known for its produce, and a large Honda factory.  It is also famous for natural scenery, as 21% of the prefecture is designated national parks.  I have never been that far south, but I hear it is quite beautiful. 

We will miss our neighbors, even though we don't know them very well.  It is always nice to have neighbors with kids that play nicely with your own.  It was so kind of them to bring a little farewell gift, as the hello gift is more customary. 

I wonder who will move in next.  Is it bad that I really, really hope it is a friendly family with a kid my son's age?  Perhaps even an English speaking family?  One can wish!