Here’s to 21

While every day it gets harder being away from my loved ones, and I’m starting to look forward to heading to the States, I had a superb 21st birthday. For the first time in my life, I had class to attend, and I celebrated on foreign soil. It felt a little odd to say the least. I have to say though, I was completely overwhelmed from the amount of love crossing the sea from America, and that which I received the previous day in Japan. It was like I had two days of birthday. I woke up to well wishes taking every form including letters, snapchats, texts, and facebook posts. I was also congratulated by every major corporation I have online contact with. Kinda creepy, but appreciated nonetheless.

I needed a haircut anyways, but here is what 21 year old Grant looks like!

I started of my day bright and early after not so many hours of sleep chowing down on some creme brulee doughnuts with Chau. We biked all the way down to the Kobo-san monthly market at To-ji Temple. It was Chau’s first time, and my fourth. We got very lucky that the torrential storm that had raged all night let up just before we left our dorm, and didn’t make a significant reappearance until we had arrived back home. It actually turned out to be sunny and sweltering. We both dropped some yen, and walked away with some trinkets and summer yukata. We took lunch at a tranquil cafe overlooking the surging Kamogawa River. After my only class I indulged in some sushi with an episode of Orange is the New Black. The night quickly transformed into bowling, bar snacks, and clubbing. I’m pretty sure I can count it as my 21 run.

I got the chance to facetime with my wonderful parents, and my pup, Ozzy, who are incessantly doing everything they can to put a smile on my face. They’re always successful and I miss them more than I thought possible. They got to watch me open up the care package they sent me with some sweet gifts, like glitter tattoos and nutella. As a strong proponent of the Treat-Yo-Self mentality and occasional retail therapy, I also bought myself some new Japan exclusive Nikes. My absolute favorite kinds of gifts are those that incorporate a personal touch. My wonderful companions here in Kyoto made me delicious cake and some gorgeous photo albums.

I give thanks to all those in my life who have shown me their love and kindness. I couldn’t be happier. Here’s to another year of shenanigans as a legal American “adult.”