First of the Farewells

And so it begins. The countdown and reality of goodbye was kicked off this past weekend at my former Japanese instructor, Akiko's, house:

Akiko and her husband Yuzuru (and their cute little baby, Satoru) always host the best get-togethers at their place, and our early going away party was no exception with plenty of food, friends, babies, and Akiko's homemade tiramasu:

I was really touched by everyone who came out to say goodbye. A special ありがとうございました to the Miyoshi's for their kindness and friendship during my time here in Sapporo!