A summer adventure with two families and their three energetic boys

At the end of July, just as summer was really kicking off, two close families with three energetic boys came to stay. It was the first time we'd hosted such a large group since opening, and the start of our first summer season, a memory I'll cherish forever.

With only two rooms, my guesthouse was essentially theirs for the duration. The kids, three bundles of boundless energy, explored every nook and cranny of the house, from the first to the second floor. Despite their parents' initial worries, the boys were soon lost in their own world, discovering hidden instruments and having a blast on the rope net.

After a long journey, the kids were full of adrenaline. We gently coaxed them into bed one by one, and once they were fast asleep, their parents celebrated with drinks, their faces lit up with a mixture of relief and joy that only parents can understand. It was a heartwarming reminder of the challenges and rewards of raising children.

The next day, as planned, we went fishing at Kaitsu Port, just a five-minute walk away. It was their first time fishing, and mine too as a host. The boys loved catching creatures, but the small sardines we used for bait kept getting eaten without any bites. Despite the lack of catches, they had a blast. It was a great learning experience for me, realizing that I needed to prepare more thoroughly, including life jackets, if I wanted to offer fishing as a regular activity.

They also spent a day at Takahama Beach, one of the most famous beaches in Goto. While Takahama's waves might be a bit much for younger kids, the neighboring Tontomari Beach has calmer waters. However, these boys seemed to love the waves. The sight of their wet swimsuits and floaty toys hanging all over the drying rack was a heartwarming scene.

After our bonfire BBQ, we continued with other summer traditions like fireworks and hunting for beetles in nearby oak trees. Seeing so many fireflies and beetles was a first for me too. It made me realize the potential of GIVE ME FIVE and gave me a boost of confidence.

And so, my summer as a guesthouse host began.

Let's light up the night sky with fireworks at the campsite!