Tod works one week a month in the Tokyo office, but this month he is doing a two-week trip so that he can cat-sit Honey while his colleague, Will, is on a business trip.
I decided to go see him on the in-between weekend and hang out in the city. It was a pleasant change of pace and a wonderful reconnection with my favorite human. Tod is a different person in the city – he seems more energetic and motivated. I am so glad he gets to spend time there regularly now.
I had a good time and even extended my stay from 1 to 2 nights thanks to Naomi, who stopped by the check on the cats and refill their food bowl.
One of the things I loved on this trip was the temperature. It was a little warmer in the city and I absolutely enjoyed not feeling cold pains in my fingers and toes. I wore a t-shirt to bed instead of layers of fleece and a hat. What?!
Walking with a destination and purpose was awesome, and so was wandering around aimlessly looking at architecture and foliage. Tokyo’s curated garden spaces are beautiful inspirations and the ad hoc planters around homes are delightful. We all want nature.
But I find Tokyo too loud and people-y; there is stray personal energy flowing around and almost every interaction is a commercial one. I am not sure how I lived there for so many years without going insane. Or maybe I was insane. I prefer my quiet country home now. Even if I do get too cold in winter.