Wonderful sendoff and a lovely ride through the mountains

Weather: 17 degrees c, sunny!

Mood: Ditching our trusty Route 4 and looking forward to the lovely ride through the mountains today!

We woke up bleary-eyed, having doused ourselves the night before with horse sashimi, yummy beef and a bottle of wine. Feeling like we had to forcefully pluck ourselves out of our cozy futons, we reluctantly packed our bags and made our way to the checkout. Something about this place compels me to want to rest, over the excitement of continuing my trip.

At the reception, we had a warm farewell from everyone! Our scooters got much curious attention but we received even more warmth and regard with each person we bid farewell to. After a couple of hugs, thoughtful presents among them heat packs from Emi and many "ki o tsuketes" later, meaning "take care and be safe", we were on our way down the mountains to Fukushima.

Today was the first time we ditched the main national highways, the one here called "yon go sen" , and enjoyed a nice scoot through the mountain roads. Along the way, we met even more wonderful people who offered to let us stay at their house and more. Many also waved at us along the roads!

It's the little things that cheer us on to move forwards to see what's over the next hill. It might only be a smile here and a wave there but on big journeys like this, the little cheer goes a long way. Sometimes when we are so focused on the goal, we lose sight and appreciation of what's happening right now. In the end, a mindset and nothing more. These little things help us get over the next hill and I'm choosing Gratitude.

Michelle Yang