The sun was up but the cool breeze of Christmas continued to caress my cheeks. My Mom covered her body fully well. I told her that it would be a very long trip that day but would entirely be worth our while. As usual, she did not know where exactly our destination would be. And each time the train was approaching the next station, she kept asking me if it was time to stand up and so she could get ready. In my desire to keep her excitement aglow, I advised her to close her eyes and take a nap for travel time would be an hour or two. Alas! That did not work. Instead, she kept asking me time and again where are we really heading. We realized we were both like kids and we could not help but foolishly giggle and laugh in a subdued manner so we could not disturb others. Then it came, we arrived in the area on time!
We took a cab going to the fruit plantation! We were hoping to pick some strawberries or apples or maybe oranges that day. When we reached our destination, the tour guide informed us that only oranges were readily available for harvest. Strawberries and apples were not yet in season. Without doubt, we bought our ticket going to the plantation. It was our first time to experience fruit picking, anyway. But before going there, Mom and I both nodded to take our brunch first. Our tummy had been grumbling in hunger that moment. We took our selfie with the food, of course! This has become our routine in our travels prior to opening our mouths. After all, travel means trying out different food and savoring different experience.
Mom told me to take her a photo alone and so I humbly obeyed. Check the photos below...
It tasted really good! It was meaty and juicy at the same time. I would have wanted to have one more round but Mom reminded me to eat more oranges later instead.
After eating, we decided to join the next group. Off, we went! Few instructions were given to tourists along with small baskets and scissors. Mom and I were both excited not for the oranges nor the trees but for the experience. With much anticipation, we looked for some orange trees with less tourists and with bunch of oranges.
My Mom was tremendously exuberant! Her smile was incredible. For a son seeing those priceless moments uncover is such a joy to behold. She told me to take her photos. And so I also sought her expertise to take me some wonderful shots as well. My Mom is just great! She deserves to enjoy and live every moment.
The oranges were very sweet and apparently very juicy! Yes, we ate a lot. As in a lot! We brought some to the hotel too. We were too full and bloated after. I told my Mom if she would love to stroll around until we reach the train station. She liked the idea and so we went on.
Mom and I engaged in deep talks. I shared with her my future plans, my dreams and my frustrations. She answered, often times in gratitude... so much gratitude in her heart. I wanted to just be like her. Humble and happy, contented and kind, but above all prayerful.
We were taken aback when we arrived in the station. I told her we walked almost 5 kilometers and checked on her if she needed anything. She replied in negative and just wanted to have some rest. The trip going back to Nagoya was silent since we both slept and needed to recharge a little.
Upon arrival, we looked for a good place to have some dinner. As usual, we took our selfies and the food as well.
We ate some grilled beef for dinner. Just enough to fill our tummies and comfort our tired body. The day ended with so much love and gratitude. I am so grateful to have a mother like Mommy Letz.