Hi Reader,

Have you ever returned to a place you thought you knew, only to find everything feels ... different? That’s exactly what happened to me on my recent trip to Japan.

It wasn’t just about the sights or the shinkansen rides. It was the people — old friends and new memories — that reminded me how much life changes naturally, especially when time and distance keep us apart.

After landing in Tokyo, I sped off to Kobe to catch up with O and M. O is only 9 but can rattle off every country, capital, and flag in the world. Our conversations made me realize how much joy I have experienced through travel, which I relive in memories, conversations, and connections.

From Kobe (shown in the video), I headed to Nagoya, where I lived years ago. I don’t keep in touch with everyone as well as I’d like, but that day, generous friends opened their home and hearts to me. I even walked the halls of the school where I taught. There were a few familiar faces, reminding me that you can’t ever really go back — but you can return with fresh eyes and still experience a full heart.

I had a full heart when a friend picked me up to take me to her home for cake and tea. This was before we met another friend for lunch. She showed up carrying a balloon and a birthday sash. These two Japanese women offered me friendship while I was grieving my grandmother's passing, and continue to remind me how deeply chosen family shapes our lives. We laughed over unlimited bread and then wandered through Ghibli Park, soaking up the moment.

That trip reinforced a simple truth: the attention that you put into relationships creates bonds that can transcend time and space.

I'm so happy that I went back to Japan and made time to visit old friends. A lot of that trip was solo, and I loved that part of it too. For me, the mix of intentional connection and time exploring my own adventures is a perfect blend.

What adventures have you been dreaming of? Does the thought of traveling alone scare you away? I’m quietly working on something to help turn those dreams into plans, with a little support and no overwhelm.

Interested in hearing more? Just hit reply and let me know.

Joyfully,
Damianne

P.S. I flew to Japan on my birthday and you won't believe how many times I had cake. Check it out here.

​Subscribe if you were forwarded this newsletter.
​Unsubscribe · Preferences