I don't know what to say about this drama, it was simply heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. It just makes me feel so warm to see Akira surrounded by so many good people who support him 24/7, 365/12. Says a lot about living in the countryside, everyone DOES know each other well. It is extremely heartbreaking when heavy moments occur: little Akira being lonely, kid Akira questioning on what happened to his mother, and so much more.

Yasu's outbursts are sometimes childish, and I immediately associated the word tsundere with him. This was the first time I've seen a male tsundere in a live action drama so I was a bit surprised to say the least!

I really like how Akira's portrayed realistically, even when he's being rebellious against his own dad it's portrayed in a way that's realistic, not just the usual "teenage characters must give their parents attitude 24/7!" and that Akira has his own motives and issues that's causing him to act like that.

The side characters are so good that they feel like main characters than side characters, Yasu's "dad", Shoun, and Taeko. They contributed so much to the plot that they shouldn't be disregarded as side characters, as they helped Akira be the man he is in the present day. So much life lessons thrown out by them, helping Akira and Yasu improve themselves.

I'll be feeling empty for a while, never have I seen a drama where the side characters are so good like this!

Also, Ken-chan is just too cute! I wished they gave him more time in the plot, since an arc focusing on him was only done in the last episode unfortunately.