Back in Tokyo

As you all know, we were in the states with a busy schedule to adhere to. Somehow we managed to do it all and arrive back in Tokyo in one piece, with all the luggage! Our trip started out in El Paso to visit my family and have a baby shower for my sister. She's having a girl and due in October, so there was lots of pink everywhere. The shower turned out well and hopefully everyone had a good time. In addition to the shower, we spent some time with my parents and the little man, Gabe. He now knows who Mike is and his name; although, he can't get the "ke" of "Mike" so he just says "ma." Here are some of my favorites:
playing with Mike, but not liking the camera

with Mike

With Audrey (its not good, but the others were worse!)


The little man dancing and playing with his tools


After El Paso we headed to Houston for Mike's training course, which was in the Woodlands, so we stayed with Rob and Allison. I got lots of time with Allison and baby Taylor as we were out and about everyday! They taught me about Miss Bonnie's Dance school and Little Gym. We had a good time. On Thursday evening, our last night in Houston, we met up with good friends. We had drinks with Kirsten and Jeff. Then we had dinner with David and Sarah. It was nice to see all of them, seeing as how we haven't seen them in like 9 months. YIKES. Wish I had some pictures, but I forgot to get out the camera.

Next we flew to St. Louis for Labor day weekend to visit with Mike's family. We had a good time there as well. I got to golf with Jan and Leslie while Mike golfed with his dad. Other than visiting with the family, we got to meet our newest nephew, Owen, just 7 weeks old. He's super cute, but doesn't do much other than sleep and eat. We brought him some presents and the must present that we give is the Japanese outfit for kids. Here he is with his dad in his jimbe. Its a bit big, but he's growing fast, so maybe by the time Halloween comes, he'll fit in it.


On Labor day, we had a BBQ and played washers with Matt and Katie. This is a great picture of Matt and Mike, each concentrating intently with their drinks not far away!AND yes, that is a budlight you see!


Our trip was eventful and long, but well worth it. It's always nice to be around family and friends. I know Mike enjoyed it very much because he got to golf quite a bit and hadn't been home since we left in Janaury. The only bad thing, other than putting on some pounds due to the good food, is that it has taken us alot longer to adjust this time. Maybe its because of our multiple stops, but either way, it was worth it.