Today I spent some time relaxing and catching up on missing sleep. I also helped my girlfriend with some work so I was not out of the apartment until late. I had a ramen and gyoza supper, which was also lunch and breakfast, and then jumped on the train to the ikebukuro section, specifically Tokyu Hands for presents.
I knew exactly what I wanted to find, found what I wanted and then wandered around to Sunshine City to see what else I could get. The streets were packed with people considering it was nearly seven on a Sunday night. Certainly not typical shopping times for back home.
Also I nearly stepped on a sparrow on my way out of the ramen shop, it was just standing on the steps down and barely moved as I walked by it. Very brave little bird.
Anyway at Sunshine City I looked at a few stores, had some lovely dessert and picked up one last gift as a Christmas thing for a family member. By this point the shops were starting to close and the crowds were heading towards the station so I followed them and headed back to the apartment.
Once I got home I decided to pack all the things I did not need, leaving only a camera and clothes for the last day and my travel day home. This allows me to take full advantage of tomorrow as my last day. And I expect to make a full day of it.
After I finished packing my host family gave me a wonderful present with a card of thanks and appreciation. It was so lovely and I thanked them in both languages a number of times. They really are the sweetest people. I will definitely be giving them the best review I can when I get back. This has been a wonderful experience. Tomorrow is a bittersweet day as I will be enjoying one last foray into the city and enjoying some shopping and park time, but it will also be my last day.
There are things I miss about home, my family and friends, the matching time zone, weather that does not instantly make me uncomfortable, but this city is really wonderful and I will miss being here and on vacation when I leave.
Tomorrow, the imperial gardens, and one last shopping trip.
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