Soon I will have to get in my car and do some errands and generally be responsible again (which, I suppose, I am trying to do now by doing some of my errands that can be done on the computer here), but before I do I would like to take time to celebrate and appreciate what an enjoyable time I have had the past week. I would be remiss to neglect to appreciate those who in ways subtle and obvious have made it an enjoyable week, even as I must get back to my own business soon enough (or perhaps not soon enough as the case may be).

First of all, I would like to thank some dear friends of mine for putting up with my mother and I for the past week, the way we endlessly analyze everything from conversations and personal interactions to Japanese landscaping design and contemporary art. I hope that we did not take undue advantage of the friendliness and hospitality, and of the eagerness and willingness of their young relatives to see us over and over again for amusing and pleasant adventures in the area. I would like to thank those younger folk as well for being so warm and friendly, and also for clearing up some of my own misconceptions about various matters, and for their parents for being so gracious and tolerant in allowing their offspring a bit of fun.

I would also like to thank those people who in various ways either made an effort to enjoy company in the course of the week or who did not mind me being busy and absent in body as well as mind over the course of the week and were indulgent and tolerant in such matters as well. I hope that all is able to go well in the duties and normal business that must be attended to and that others are enjoying themselves in the adventures that life has presented not only for myself but for so many of my friends as well. Even if long trips and a great deal of time to spend observing people and seeing them in novel situations is not the normal day-to-day existence, such times are enjoyable and pleasant and much appreciated.

Even if the precise circumstances of a week like this are unlikely to be repeated often, there are a lot of things that I could get used to and would like to get used to based on what happened. I think I can get better used to getting to know people better, to reading good books and enjoying friendly and warm company, and spending hours conversing until late at night and putting puzzle pieces together as is my habit, as well as seeing the sights of the area with such pleasant company. All of those things can be enjoyed at least sometimes, and I hope to enjoy more of them more often as I have the chance. In the meantime, I am grateful to all for the pleasant memories made and for the love and friendliness shown by so many.