Well, it’s done. The contract for construction happened yesterday. I signed the papers and Tod transferred first payment to Sasaki-san.
The contract isn’t the beginning or the end. It’s sort of in the middle of the process. It’s been about a year in the planning and it will be 10 months in the making, more or less. After Monaca completes the retaining wall and site drainage, the foundations go in. Probably in October, according to the schedule.
Sasaki-san pointed out that yesterday was 大安, the most lucky day in the traditional calendar cycle. It did feel lucky to have this formality done and a milestone marked.
After the signing, I had a sad moment when I thought to myself that I’d call Mom to tell her all about it. But of course, I can’t. That made me cry. It’s the first time since she died that I have wanted to phone her. Usually we just talk in my head. Jenny reminded me that she and Dad are, of course, aware of what’s happening, cheering us on, and sending messages. I will keep myself open to seeing them wherever they pop up.
