Saying Goodbye....

And just like that, the Mendes leave Japan....Friendship is a double edged sword in the navy. You befriend the most amazing people, knowing that you will only be together for a limited time.

It's funny, but it doesn't get easier to say goodbye.
It's comforting to know that our nomadic lifestyle has allowed us to enrich our lives with good people...Lis, you were right. It's easier to leave than be left behind...

Tokyo Marathon 2008

I ran and completed my first marathon in 4:36! What a great way to tour Tokyo. It's an incredible way to see the city.

Terry, Liam and Alexis were at two different points on the route, cheering me on. They were also in the stands at the finish line. I couldn't have hoped for a better cheer section! According to T, the children did great. It was a long day...

The run itself is huge, about 30,000 people and you can tell! The taiko drum bands were inspiring as were the crowds of spectators!

Valentine's Day with Mommy and Daddy

We shared a nice lunch with Alexis for Valentines day. Toddler food is quite tasty!

I'm so surprised at the amount of candy involved on this day....Worse than Easter and only a little better than Halloween!

Walking the plank...

Pudding Time!

Alexis licking the plate clean of any traces of pudding!

Snack Time and Play Time

Ladies Night....

A nice break from the little people....

New Cut

Check out the new haircut! Today was a lesson in letting go....Liam insisted on a high & tight, while I wanted his hair cleaned up a bit off the top and sides. I couldn't convince him not to do it. He's fixated on having hair "just like Daddy." Who can argue with that?

Playing Princess

Blackmail pictures of Liam....They were playing "prince and princess"

Yes, Liam, There is Snow in Japan...

Well, it took almost two years, but we finally had a great snowfall!! Liam said, "Mommy, God answered my prayer from a long time ago." Indeed...He quickly gave a prayer of thanks.
The snow is the wet and heavy variety. We'll take it. We made great snowballs and had fun sledding!