Takise-san Visit

This visit from this family was an oasis in a desert.  We all needed a taste of "home" (Japan).  The Takise-sans filled up our buckets to the fullest.  We all adore Hiromi-san.  She is family to us.  She was the first person we met in Tokyo and the last person we said, "Good-bye" to.  She was part of our daily lives and an intergal piece of our well being and happiness in Tokyo. She was there for the us always.  I have never met a more giving and selfless person on this planet.   She was there for us when we needed emergency care, countless times.  She was one of the first people to meet and hold baby Brycen.  She was a pillar of strength and reassurance through the big earthquake and tsunami, even when her own family was directly effected.  I can never repay her all she has done for me and family.  I cherish her friendship and miss her so much.  The boys simply adore her.  It was been an adjustment living life in Germany without seeing Hiromi's smiling face as we walk out the door.  Always a warm hearted greeting when we return home.  Her visit to Germany in the early months of our assignment was exactly what this family needed.  She brought her son, Kent and her husband, Katsu.  What a fantastic family.  We enjoyed getting to know them more.  We had many laughs and created fond memories.  Their time with us was too short and we hope they visit again soon.  
Flowers and a homemade Japanese flag, Welcome sign for the Takise-sans!