Every year I experience this bitter sweet feeling. I grew up in Tokyo, Japan. I had been waiting for getting out of that country since I was five even though I am very proud Japanese. I felt like I was living inside of small box and there was no way to go and I was dying to search for my independence and freedom. Now, I love Seattle. This beautiful city has been treating me so wonderfully and it has been delighted to be here.
It is spring and cherry blossom (sakura) season. I think sakura is very special to majority of Japanese people and the most admired flower/tree in Japan. I see gorgeous sakura trees in Seattle as well. Every time I see it, my heart aches. I feel slightly homesick. It is interesting indeed to feel that way because I always tried to be away from Japan.
When I retire, I want to go visit Japan every spring to see these sakura trees. Then I die, I want my ashes to be spread underneath of my favorite cherry tree. It would be nice if the tree is one of these in the photo (this is very near to where I used to live).
Have you eaten? 
Do you prefer Seattle to Japan? I hope someday you get your wish! I too would love to see the Sakura in Japan, but so far can only dream of it.
Do I prefer Seattle to Japan…very challenging question! I feel like Seattle is my home but I also love Japanese culture, history, language and food (pretty much everything). Undetermined 🙂 I hope you get to see sakura in Japan too! All you need is your passport really! Thank you for visiting my blog and have a wonderful day!