One last day

The day guests leave is always hard.  This day was especially hard because after knowing my friend for the past 14 years, her visit brought us closer than we've ever been. 

We started the day with walking my son to school.  As we walked, we discussed how wonderful this visit has been and how much we have enjoyed the journey of our friendship.  Suddenly we were tearing up.  I fought off the tears, not wanting to get emotional before dropping off my son.  But, honestly, I should have just let it flow.  It felt so good to realize the importance of really bonding with people.

Afterwards, we went shopping and wandered around the park.  She loved seeing our beloved Hikarigaoka Park and I loved showing it to her.  (Her husband took some quiet time at the house while we had some time with just the two of us.)

Way too soon it was time to pick up my son from school.  All four of us headed to my favorite local ramen restaurant.  It was a wonderful last place to enjoy before they headed back to the states. 

All too soon it was time to head to the airport.  We dragged our feet getting them to security.  I admittedly find airports absurdly entertaining.  The shops have fun things to peruse and my son loves to watch the airplanes.  Of course, they can be extremely tedious as well, but when we're not the people traveling they are super fun.

I didn't want to say goodbye.  I never do.  When we left our friends at security, this time both my son and I let the tears fall.  We had such a great time showing our friends around, but even more, we enjoyed deepening our friendship.