Perfect Place

       Our decision to stay in Japan prompted us to visit a couple of Real Estate Agents to view their land listings in our area. The second agent we saw showed us the land of our dreams, even though we didn't realise it at first. We were used to living on the northerns side of Kichijoji Station, near all the shops and services, in the city of Musashino-shi. We hadn't really considered moving 'all the way' to the other side of the station, a whole 8 minutes south of the Park exit, in the city of Mitaka!

       We went to see the land thinking we'd never be able to settle in such a quiet residential area, but we were very surprised to discover that this place is located right next to the beautiful Inokashira park, literally steps away from one of the park's entrances near the pond. We all agreed: the place was idyllic! We already pictured ourselves living there, enjoying evening strolls in the park or morning energy walks around the pond, and late afternoon barbecues. Our kids envisioned pets. The Jewelry Atelier I was hoping to open could become a reality, my husband could perhaps finally get a soundroom...

But enough dreaming! What does this piece of heaven cost and can we afford to build a house on it? That would be for us to discover over the next few days....

Settling in Japan...

     After nearly 20 years in Japan, we've finally made up our mind! We're settling in!

     Over the years, we've considered so many alternatives - returning to Canada, moving to Bolivia, settling elsewhere in Asia, going to Europe - but in the back of our minds, we always knew that it would be difficult to leave Japan, to say goodbye forever to Tokyo, especially Kichijoji, where we've resided for the past 11 years.

     We met and got married here, we found stable employment, we live close to relatives, our kids were born here and call it home, we've made wonderful friends and had so many enriching experiences... And along the way, we've met people in Japan that literally changed our lives, that helped us in so many ways. Where else could we settle?

     In this blog, we look forward to sharing our thoughts about what makes this city such a good place to live, to raise a family, and to grow individually and as members of our community. We hope you'll enjoy reading our posts!