This post is more than two years overdue. In April 2023, I left behind my life in Japan and moved back to Australia, settling in Brisbane where my parents had relocated from Melbourne. I was lucky to live with them and my youngest brother while I got back on my feet — a grounding start to what would become an unexpectedly emotional journey.
Coming Home To Australia
Moving back to Australia wasn’t an easy decision. I absolutely loved my time living in Japan. But with my ALT work contract coming to an end and four years away from my family, it felt like the right time to re-establish myself at home.
I worried it might be difficult to find work, but thankfully that turned out to be a non-issue. I had a job lined up before I even arrived. I’m now working as a Travel Consultant, creating personalised trips to Japan — a way to stay connected to a country I love.
When I imagined returning, I saw a life filled with time spent with my family across Brisbane, Sydney and Victoria. I envisioned a triumphant homecoming, going from strength to strength. I was determined to maintain my Japanese studies, keep up with hobbies, and explore.
But reality hit differently. Moving countries is hard. Reverse culture shock is real. And nothing could have prepared me for the emotional turmoil I’d face.
Grief and Grace
Just one month after returning, my grandmother collapsed and was diagnosed with stage 4 adenocarcinoma. My travel plans became trips to visit her every few weeks. I’m so grateful I had that opportunity — something that wouldn’t have been possible if I were still in Japan.
As I was leaving Japan, I met my partner Isamu on Bumble. Our first in-person meeting was when he flew to Melbourne to meet my grandmother. It might sound intense, but I was deeply moved by his willingness to meet her, knowing her time was limited. We spent a few beautiful days together. My grandmother was so excited to meet him — she dressed up, she smiled, she was full of light. Isamu is also a gifted photographer and captured moments I’ll treasure forever.
That was the last time I saw her before she passed away in August. Her death hit me harder than I expected. Grief became an undercurrent to everyday. Someone once told me grief is like waves — sometimes gentle, sometimes crashing with no warning. That’s been true for me.
In her passing, I felt like I lost my sense of self. Everything I loved — especially knitting — reminded me of her. It took almost a year before I could touch my knitting needles without tears. So many of our conversations were about yarn, patterns, colour choices. The memories were beautiful, but they hurt. This year, I finally picked up my needles and hook again, and made some crochet bunnies and a baby blanket for a friend.
Another Loss
I wish that had been the only loss. In 2024, my uncle was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. He passed away in January 2025. I took a photo of him and my grandmother together in 2023. Though I grieve deeply, there’s solace in knowing they’re reunited. A bittersweet peace — heartbreaking, yet comforting
A New Chapter
These past two years have been full of endings and beginnings. Life and love have continued. Despite losing beloved family members, I’ve also gained new family.
Isamu moved to Australia in December 2023. In 2024, we moved into our home together — a beautiful space in Brisbane surrounded by trees and birdsong. He’s been a light through the darkness and reminds me there’s so much to look forward to.
Work-wise, things have blossomed. I was nominated for the Women In Travel Rising Star Award — I didn’t win, but making the finals was a huge honour. I’ve since been promoted to Senior Travel Consultant and have hit new personal bests.
I cherish my time with family. Weekly catch-ups with my parents and youngest brother Alaric, holidays with my Nan and Pop, and visits to Sydney with extended family keep me grounded.
Slowly, I’ve returned to my creative self — knitting, crochet, sewing and puzzles. Our home is filled with thriving indoor plants. I feel like I’m finally stepping into this new chapter of life.
Looking Ahead
We have big plans for the future. While I’m not living in Japan now, I carry it with me always — and I’ll return. In the meantime, I have plenty to share from my years there and from my time in Australia.
I plan to write more consistently — about craft, life, travel, and the little things that make it all meaningful. Thanks for reading. I hope you’ll stick around for what’s to come.
In the meantime, feel free to check out my post on knitting Frog and Toad or the Shibazakura and Tulips in Hokkaido!
