Us

Just the two of us on a chilly day at Mitaki-Dera. A perfect day for enjoying the autumnal parade of leaves, genki white-haired Japanese hikers, a magical bamboo forest, breathtaking views of Hiroshima and the bumpy islands of the Seto Inland Sea. We didn't know what to expect which is when the best things seem to happen. We hadn't packed water or food so we were starving at the end of our hike. I had to pee on the side of the trail. Adam had to help older hikers cross a little stream. We were tired but giddy with the adventure of it. And giggly with this time for just the two of us. We needed this day so very much. And at the end of the hike we entered the tiny cafe with flushed faces, chilly hands, and gratitude for each other and warm cups of tea accompanied by mochi treats.