When we were in California and Hawaii, I didn’t post as often because I didn’t feel I had so much to say. Now, it’s the same result but the opposite problem: I have way too much to say.
Here’s a thing: we leave Kyoto in three days. Today, when we went to do laundry, we saw that the east entrance to Kenkun Shrine was completely abloom with sakura.
When was the last time I walked by here? Three days ago. There were no blossoms then. When I think that next week we’ll no longer be in this city, my heart hurts.
Here’s another thing: we’ve just booked an apartment in Auckland, for the two weeks following our stay in Singapore.
And another: a piece of my travel writing will be published soon, in an anthology called The Places We’ve Been: Field Reports from Travelers Under 35. I spent some time today approving the edits for the book, and it was like opening a time capsule. When I wrote the piece, we had just arrived in Istanbul; that was in October, before Paris, before Boston, before returning home for Christmas… before my current self, so it feels. At that time we were almost six months into our travels, and now almost another six months have passed. I feel different. New eyes, new thoughts.
Another: tonight I went to the convenience store, looking for dessert. Now I am eating a baked creamy potato with chocolate in it. In fact, it’s delicious.
Another: tonight we saw a woman walking her cat.
Another: there are all these things I want to write; stories, letters, my travel diary. At the same time I want to do nothing but paint. And again at the same time I begrudge every moment I am not soaking in the city (or the sento). I am almost looking forward to the 8.5 hour flight to Singapore, because then I’ll have no choice but to write (or sleep, which also sounds good).
But mainly on my mind is: oh, Kyoto.
I am sad for you that you will be leaving Kyoto, but so, so glad that your stay has been so full of wonderfulness. And even more glad that you have recorded so much of it (even if not as much as you’d like) in words and photos and sketches. It has been so great for me to revisit Kyoto in this way. I really want to go back. Even more now!
These photos are just gorgeous, by the way.
Thanks so much, Alejna! Kyoto is so gorgeous. Before we went there I had decided it couldn’t possibly be as beautiful as the postcards, so I actually wrote down, “Take some photos of non-picture-perfect Kyoto for the blog.” Then I got there and it all seemed so lovely, I scrapped that idea completely!
I agree with alejna – your photos are gorgeous! I especially love the man and little girl crossing the river 😀
Thank you so much, Troo! That’s a little girl, but I love that photo too. I think it’s one of my favorites from the whole month — there’s so much joy and delight (and courage! those rocks are not that close together!).
Beautiful!
Arigatogozaimashita! 🙂
Love your photos! (And what a gorgeous cat that lady was walking!) I’m sorry you’re leaving Kyoto, but looking forward to what wonders and surprises await your discovery in Singapore … and the Auckland! Travel safe, my friend!
Isn’t it a beautiful cat? I couldn’t believe it! Thank you for the good words and good wishes! 🙂
I completely fell in love with your Kyoto. Thank you for sharing, Lisa. hugs, hugs, hugs
Hugs, hugs, hugs to you too, dear Aga. 🙂 I’m so glad I could share the beauty and magic of the city!