Do you know the feeling when you can’t get enough of something you’ve wanted for a long time?  You love the way it made you feel, and you can’t get enough

I felt all those things this week, and I couldn’t be happier!

All three times, I was filled with joy, and I cried. I felt something different each time.  And all times, I wanted more.

I speak of course of my trip to Japan to visit my niece and to watch her perform her aerial art in a highly renowned show in an extraordinary place.   

Having planned a trip to visit the lovely Erica and spend time with her to explore Japan was exciting in itself.  Knowing that I was going to witness her profession after years and years of training was a bonus.

For most of you that have kids, I’m sure you get to witness the beauty of watching your children grow and become amazing adults who realize their dreams every day.  I can’t speak to that personally, but being an aunt is likely one of the best things in my life.  Watching all of my nieces and nephews grow into adults has been for the greatest joy.  Although I live far away from these beautiful people, they are so close to my heart, and I’ve watched them grow every second of their lives.  

This week was so special realizing how far my niece has come.  I knew I was in for something unique, but without seeing it with my own eyes, I would not have believed what I saw.

As I walked into Erica’s workplace, I was overwhelmed with emotion.  I was trying not to cry (of course, it happened), recognizing that I travelled so far to see such beauty and talent.  

People came from around the world to see this performance.  Young and old line up in anticipation of this show.  The suspense was killing me.  Finally, we were able to sit in our seats.  I got the second-row center stage.  The Japanese people are so polite and respectful.  It’s one of the things I admire most about this beautiful country.  Everyone files into the theatre in a calm and orderly fashion.  Lights went out, and I was sobbing uncontrollably.  I was trying to distract my emotions with other thoughts and then decided to feel it and embrace it.

As tears were streaming down my face, the music started. In flys, this lovely, talented woman held only by cables and dancing through the air like an angel with the most grace I’ve ever seen and entertained the audience with her vibrancy acknowledging the crowd with waves and the best smile.  Capturing hearts and leaving lasting memories of the crowd that represented all different demographics.

I planned this trip 180 days ago and anticipated this moment for half a year.  I loved how the anticipation of this special event changed my life in such a positive manner.  I couldn’t get enough.  There were two more performances, and I had to keep coming back.  I wasn’t going to miss a moment.  I felt something different each time.  I felt extreme pride watching this beauty who perfected her practice and gave her all in each performance.  I was bewildered on how this petit frame could manifest herself into such a presence.  An accomplished gymnast and dancer with her pure athleticism was a sight to be seen. Her ability to lip-sync in Japanese was incomprehensible.  Such dedication and focus got her to this point. Travelled afar to grow into herself and the beautiful women that she has become.

This country has, in my short time, affected me in a way I can’t describe.  My senses are heightened. I feel so in the moment.  I can smell the fragrance of the flowers that still grow in this winter season.  I see everything, exploring all things beautiful and being my true authentic self.  Travel brings magic into our lives.  I know it does mine for sure.  

Going back to my second viewing of Erica’s performance, I decided to get my feelings in check.  I sat in a different seat.  I saw different things every time, but each time I watched the audience.  More and more faces lit up when they saw Erica, singing along with the music, clapping and waving.  Evoking emotions of the child within.  I went for the third time, and it was just as satisfying as the time before.  

I enjoyed my three-time experience that day.

I am the most satisfied living my best life and witnessing such amazing things with the most incredible people.