Maki-chan

I was absolutely delighted to receive a visit from my friend, Makiko. After unexpected stopovers in Nagoya and Dubai (passport issues--make sure you've got 3 months left on yours if you intend to visit!), Makiko flew in. We climbed around Bellepais, attended a reception at the Ambassador's residence, explored the mosaics in Paphos, and just generally caught up and hung out. It was a true relief after the horrendous events of July, including my friend Tom's suicide (he was the defense attache at the Embassy.) I'm thrilled that she's doing so well in Tokyo, and am still happily munching on the strawberry-covered Pocky that she brought me.