First Day in our new HOME

2/21/2008
Today is Thursday.

It is our very first day of our new home and we were figuring out of what we need. I just found out that we have lots of glass dooors and windows and it needs curtains so people in the outside could not see us through. Brian and I feel like that we are in a big fish tank and we are trying to hide ourselves when we need to do our private stuff. It is being hard though.

Brian went to work and asked if he could leave early. We woke up without heat because the Tokyo Gas guy did not give us a proper instructin on but there was an instruction on the drawer at the kitchen. I decided to stay in the house with the kids instead of going somewhere. Brian called Miko our agent and asked help for us. We need heat. I bundle up the kids, but it was not bad as in the outside though. This place is windy and I just could not believe it. The wind is so chilly and cold.

There was a guy from Tokyo Gas company came and give me an instruction if our heat stop. Just look on the meter LOL. Oh boy! I forgot to look our gas meter. So, we had heat and I cook breakfast. Brian was quiet happy that we are warmth and comfy. But we still have problems. The floor is so cold because it is wood floor. Brian and I does not like wood floor but there is an advantage though. You can see the mess that needs to be swept. I am sweeping three times most of the day because when I see some dirt it made me sneeze. That is why I discourage to bring shoes inside. Shoes should be put at the shoe rack at the entrance way. I wonder Japanese people wear slipper because they love wood floors. They spend thousands of dollars and maybe millions of yens in having wood flooor. It is their custom. We never encounter a house that has carpet but a friend of ours Rene and Phil told us that there was when they did their house hunting. They said the carpet was in the old side and it needs to be replaced.

So what I did today? I arrange the DVDs and books and put it away on their storage cabinets. I was carrying the cabinet at the tatami room and put all the DVDs we have. Brian's book were not many and we don't have a place for it. I was planning for the kids book to be on the two shelves on the bottom at the bookcase but then they made a mess so I was planning to put it in a small bookcase we have and put it in Ben's bedroom. I was planning to get a small bookcase for Mary so she has a books to flip when she will be in her room.

I spent my evening washing the pots and dishes. I feel it is not clean because I think the people who packed it back in WA. I think they have colds. Brian was claiming that the virus is already dead but I don't believe it. Bacteria and virus are always there so better I clean it and washed with a hot water. It is being hard to do all this while the kids are here bugging me. We don't have TV yet, I am afraid to plug it on the wall outlet.

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The day we move in into our new home

02/20/2008

Move in to our new home

We were so busy last night for packing our stuff but then we manage to pack everything. We were planning to take some stuff to the apartment but then I did not let Brian do it.

At 7AM, Brian manage to get a rental car and then load all our stuff. It fitted everything to one trip. We need to be there at our new place at 8AM because they will be delivering our stuff. We got there late. Brian was a bit scared in driving off base. It is really scary. I was not comfortable sitting on the passenger and kept giving directions to Brian where it made him upset. I finally went to the back and sit next to the kids. Brian was trying to drive in a hurry.

Brian was asking an apology for the guys that we arrived late, he told them that he got lost on his way here. We were not planning to get the rental car early and it is so hard to go the place where you never been to and the street is not properly labeled. I am not sure of what the Japanese driving. It is hard for the directions. It is funny when we saw the 5 tall building, we were quiet happy. We got lost twice and come back to the road. Thanks God my hubby has a sense of directions.

They unloaded our stuff but first the express shipment and then unpacked it. The next is the regular shipment which is about 8000 lbs. The Self Help people came to bring us the furniture that we are borrowing. So, there are three kinds of stuff we received it. The express shipment, regular shipment and the self help which they let us lend furnitures for 90 days. They also brought us the appliance that we needed like convection oven, a Japanese refrigerator and our washer and dryer. The Japanese appliance are pretty cool because we could not read the directions LOL. I tell you, they have a high tech toilet. It wash your butt, dry your butt and the nozzle that comes out can move back and forth when washing your butt. It is pretty cool. There was remote on it.

The Tokyo Gas company came over and restore our power for heat. We use them for heating and cooling system. I was really happy that we have heat at about noon. The guys that brought our stuff, they also unpacked it and bring all the boxes and papers that used when packing our stuff. I just could not believe it the boxes and paper they used.

Recycling here in Japan is pretty hard though. They are very strict in the sorting of the recycle. They have some stuff that they won't take it. I was doing recycle back in the US. Everything were all convenient and sorting was kind of easy.

Japanese people are quiet strict and love to follow rules and law on their country. I say the people are nice and they have fashion and they love children.

The guys were done here about noon and we also relieve that our stuff were unpacked and the problem next is putting it away.

Visit to Brian's boss' boss' Mr Tom Murphy

We were invited to come in his house. He is a nice guy and even his wife was so nice. They have two kids with them Ian and Dylan. They are kind of shy type kids, never talk to us but it seemed they are good kid. This kids love to play video games and even on their computer. They are nice though. I am hoping and praying that they are always our friends and treated us family here. The PSNS Command is pretty new here. I love to make friends with them and even to the other guys that come at the get together. Brian and I are planning to invite them in our house warming thing. I am thinking two weeks after we move. I knew we are settld in that time.

They have a nice Japanese house that they rented. The place is big but the hallway is a little bit narrow than the place we are going to rent. Oh well, what do you expect in here. They have a little land to spend here in Japan and they could not afford to leveled their land and build more homes. Tom's wife Christy, she loves flowers and even foliage plants and I think we have in common with that. She definitely loves plants. She has potted plants in the outside and more in the inside too. That is what Brian want me to do. A little bit of everything because the place that we have is not that big space for roses. I will plant roses and I am thinking two in a pots.

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Seen the biggest Budhha in Japan

Part 11 02/17/2008

It was Sunday late in the morning we left here in our room at Navy Lodge. We head straight to the main gate and then walk going to JR Line Train station. I think it is about 5 minutes, it was not bad at all. We were reluctant to bring our stroller because we never knew if it is okey to bring it on the train. Brian and I felt relieve when we saw Japanese couple that has little one and they bring stroller for their baby. We sit on the seat of the train and most women that has baby and pregnant, they let them sit and so the old folks and disable. It is really cute that there is picture in it specified on what chair they sit which is really cool.

So, we got to Kamakura and then we had a transfer station going to Hase, we rode an Enodine line going to Hase where the Buddha is. When we get off on the train, we walk for about 10 minutes and we were looking food to eat. They have lots of food to eat but most of them has seafood like shrimp, squid and we did not see any plain chicken. The road was so narrow and packed. It is so hard to see dirt here everything is concrete. I just could not imagine that I cannot get any flower bed but instead a potted plants.

As we walk, we finally found a place to eat. They have decent food to choose but then there is no vacant table. I think it is 40 minutes waiting which we don't do it. So, we decided to go inside the temple and go see the big buddha. This is the biggest Buddha in Japan here in Hase, Kamakura. This Buddha was blasted with rains, earthquake but it is still standing up. They build it pretty good. The people before built it so good and it lasted many years.

Before we go inside, we bought a ticket for us to get in. We were told that we are going to wash our hands. There is a flowing water there and you are going to wash your hands before you talk to their Shinto gods. They said, that is the opening or a gate to talk to their gods which is their belief.

I know the kids were getting cold. Benjamin acting like crazy running around and it made us upset because he won't listen. He thinks everything is a game. We just told him not to climb at the rails at the side of the Buddha but he did. The Japanese people were ignoring us but they just praying of what they believe. We went there for a tour anyways but we need to respect their faith as we wanted them to respect of our own faith. They just touch the round thing that has smoke and say something quietly and then put some money at the coin box.

There is also a monk saying something. Of course it is on Nihonggo which we did not understand. Some kids coming to him and give some offering and he put it on his coin box. He is kind of giving the kids a blessings from his gods. I will ask any of the Japanese people if I could meet one what all those means. I am thinking that is the Buddhism rituals. It is pretty interesting. What we do is to respect what they believe.

I have some photos to share here and I hope that you are enjoying browsing.

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Plan to go visit Kamakura

First part 02/17/2008

Today we are planning to go to Kamakura. I just don't care if other Mom does not use stroller when they ride in a train. It is so hard to carry Mary in my sling and had a 20 to 30 minutes walk. I just had a lower back pain yesterday when we spent walking along the road. I just could not do it again. It seemed that my back can't go straight when I put Mary down. It is hard for me to move then.

But right now, we are busy paying our bills.. the final bill we have in our house. I just don't wanna pass all the bills and then go to collection agency. That is bad for the credit history. So we better take care of all the bills and then we are done.

Brian woke up this morning and he went to the Fleet Wreck and withdraw some money. He decided to use their massage chair. He said, it feels so good. He wanted to buy a massage chair in the last two years but we did not buy it yet. When we woke up, he was not here and I tried to call his cellphone where he is but his ringer was turn off. He called me our phone and then told me that he will be here soon by cab but he decided to walk then. He bought also a cinnamon rolls. I was wondering why it took so long for him to get here. When he got here in our room, he was red and was catching his breath. He never bothered to tell me that he is walking from the Fleet Rec going here at the Navy Lodge.

He warm it up the cinnamon rolls because I like warm. We had a wonderful breakfast. Benjamin was telling his Dad that he won't eat breakfast but when he saw the rolls in a plate. He ate it. This kid is so funny and unpredictable. Well Kids are just like that anyways. After our breakfast, we went ahead and dressed up ourselves. Bundle up again. I hate to do like this.

We were just taking it easy with our time. We did not bother to go in a hurry to go to Kamakura where the big Buddha is. Benjamin was kind of excited to see the Buddha.

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Wallet Lost

It is February 14, 2008 and it is Valentines and when my hubby left I just could not remembered if he kissed me or not. I was still sleepy anyways. Mary woke me up with all her moaning and wanted me to nurse her everytime she moves. We slept together in bed since we are still here at the Navy Lodge. I can't wait to move to our new place in Nobi. So, I am here playing my computer and doing my blogging. I made money now hehehehe and I am so happy with it. The kids still sleeping and it is 8AM now and I think I am going to start moving by cooking for our breakfast and when the kids woke up I will feed them right away.

Brian called me this morning that his wallet was totally lost. He reported it last night and then he is hoping that one of his co-worker found it. But it never it never. He was asking me last night if I could do all the phone calls for cancelling our credit cards, debits, savings cards. Oh boy! we gonna be poor this time. He lost his government card too. I just could not believe it.

I need to get ready for myself too. Rene, I and the kids will be going out today and I will bring my camera for taking pictures. I love too.. CIAO.. will continue my post later.

Windy DAY

Never expected to have a strong wind today. It seemed that the building fly but thanks God it is not! I never don't like strong wind. The sound whooosing is so scary. I have phobia of strong wind and it does not come out in my mind of what happened back in 1986 I think.. that was Baguio Ruping that his Bohol. The roof of the house were flying and it was really scary. When I heard sounds whoosing.. I remembered right away the typhoon that I 'd been to. Poor Betty scared of wind. No big deal for others but it is a big deal for me.

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Quiet DAY

Today is Feb 13, 2008 and it has been a quiet day for us.

Brian woke up early and I was helping him to iron his clothes for work. Last night I was urging Brian to buy another 8 dress shirts for work clothes. I am the one who iron it so then he won't say any word of it. I am working of buying a new pair of pants for him so I can iron his clothes worth of two weeks clothes. It is hard though at least if I am being lazy to do laundry and iron his work clothes then I have extra pairs for him to wear. I just wanna be a little easy on this. He went to work early as 6AM and I was finishing ironing his dress shirts and I am glad I did before the kids woke up. It is a pain in the butt if they awake, I am afraid if they caught by the hot iron.

The kids woke up and I was a bit tired from last night. I did not get any good sleep last night. I took Benjamin to the bathroom or else he will pee on his bed. Pretty bad huh! I just wanna sleep but Mary was asking food LOL and Benjamin kept drinking choco milk which it is hard for him to eat breakfast. He refuse to eat the food I cook. I feel bad if he did not eat. I cook spinach sautee and chicken with rice. Mary was eating pretty good as usual but Benjamin he was trying to throw up when the chicken and rice is on his mouth. I just could not imagine why this kid could not get hungry. So, I offered him a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and he ate it. STINKS KIDO!

I was planning to bring the kids out but it is so windy. I forgot the room number of Rene and I just wanna call her and let her know that we are still going. I was trying to call Brian but he was out for training until such time that I forgot to call him back. So, I took the kids downstairs at the playroom to wear out there energy. Benjamin does not want to come here in our room because he found a playmate. I was not gonna pull out Benjamin but I saw Mary that she is so tired and need to get her nap. I was telling to Ben that we will be going up quick so he can still watch the Tom and Jerry show. He loves that show. Mary is quiet fussy. I just caught in my eye that the little girl picking her nose and there is big bogger and she put her finger into her mouth. It gross me out and I almost throw up because of that. So I hurriedly back to the room and washed Benjamin and Mary's hands.

Mary was crying and kept saying dede. She is really tired. I took her on my arms and lay her down and nurse her. She got her lala that gives her comfort. So, I am here right now sitting at the computer doing my usual thing.. BLOGGING!

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Rainy day here in Yokosuka Japan

02/12/2008 Tuesday

Rainy Day in Yokosuka

Brian went to work early this morning at 6AM and I woke up when he left when he bid goodbye to me by kissing. So I decided to get up and do some blogging and updating a little bit of my blogs. I just wanna update it since the kids still sleeping. Mary woke up first and then Mary tried to wake up Ben by giving Benjamin a huggy and kissy. She is fond to her brother. I feed the kids and manage to clean up the kitchen. I really don't like to have a small kitchen, it feels cramps when I do clean the dishes and preparing food. I am not used to it but I have no choice since we are staying here at the Navy Lodge. The kids were happy enough, they have full tummy and they are watching their favorite shows. I was planning to take them outside and play.

As I look out in the outside, it was raining and I am hoping that it is not all day. It is also windy and chilly. I can't wait the spring and see the cherryblossoms. It is also warming up that time and it might be comfortable to go outside and play. So I decided to stay at the hotel and when it was 1pm. The pest control people knocked the door and wanted to spray the floor but Mary was sleeping and they does not want to spray while there is baby sleeping where I am willing to bring the kids out. I was planning to go to Community Center and look what I can do there. They have some stuff to do.

Brian called around 1:45PM and asked me if I went somewhere today and he is going to take a driving test at 2:25PM. We were talking of meeting each other at the Community Center after his driving test. Mary woke up after Brian and I talking on the phone. I was helping Benjamin to put on his shoes and I bundle up Mary and Ben to keep them warm while it is cold to go outside. I called a cab and when we got down, the cab is already there. He took us to the Community Center. Rain starting to fell down again and we hurriedly going in the inside. Benjamin was listening to me but he has his own way and plans. When I told him to take away his stars, that is the time that he is paying attention of what I said.

We saw Brian going down the stairs, he got there first. Boy! I thought I will be there first and he beat me. We went to the hobby shop for women. I saw making origami and it is really cool to learn this stuff. I may take classes and I will make my own asian cards or I can put it on my scrapbook. It is really cool decoration. I may have selling online asian Christmas cards or any cards. Hows that sound? Handmade! pretty cool huh! Brian got a flyer for February classes and I need to look it up. I wanna choose what classes I will be doing. It might be Rene Aldridge like to come with me. I am not sure if she is a hobby person but learning is not hard anyways.

After that, we decided to walk to NEX and hit ITT. Brian is looking for tours anywhere here in Japan of course. We do local first before going out of the country. They have some information on what stuff we can do here and I just love to go and check it all. I am so glad my hubby is so adventurous. He likes to try new things.
We hit the Commissary to get few groceries and I asked Brian to buy dress shirts. I am glad he did. I just want him to be looked good when he is going to work. I just could not afford to see my hubby sloppy. We got back at the hotel and Brian remembered that it is prime rib night a CPO Club where Brian wanted to try. This guy loves to eat red meat. So we hurriedly drop our groceries and head back downstairs and when we look at the time. We perfectly hit the bus going to the CPO Club. It is funny because Benjamin wanted to go potty and the bus will be here in a couple minutes. Brian hurriedly took him to the restroom and back perfectly timing to the bus stop. We made it. He was catching his breath because he was walking so fast and he was carrying Benjamin. This kid! Mary was a bit fussy but then she is fine. She is hungry too. We had a wonderful dinner and the food was really good. I never got a chance to take photos on it. I feel akward of doing it. We saw Phil and Rene, they are going to eat dinner here too. They sit next to our table and have a little chat. Rene and I planned to go out tomorrow.

We head back to Navy Lodge and we just catch the bus. It is convenient then because we are just waiting for couple minutes at the bus stop which is really cool and we saved money for the cab. Benjamin was a bit fussy and I just want him to settle down. I know he is tired and he won't admit it. I washed Brian's new dress shirt. I just wanna iron it but then the kids where fussy and Mary wanted to sleep then. I brushed their teeth and put their pajamas. Brian is helping me though.

So long my friends... CIAO! Sleepy here z z z z snooze z z z z z

Stay at Navy Lodge

This is how we look like staying at the Navy Lodge. It is pretty hard for the kids. Last Sunday, we were worried at Benjamin. He won't listen and does not want to look in our eyes. When he is talking to you, he is looking of different things. Brian and I were very worried. We were thinking to bring him in a child physhologist. Of all the stuff he run into. We were kind of ripping his life due to this move. He lost his house, he saw that guys were packing our stuff and maybe he thinks that he could not see his stuff again. He did not see his toys, yes! we bought him new toys but it is really different. It is been awhile that he did not see his own room. We were trying to involve him in looking houses. If he like it or not. When we got here, Ben and Mary were at the homeday care. They both did not knew who are watching them. It is pretty hard for them. It ripped my heart when I saw my kids doing some weird stuff. Yesterday, Ben is a calm and I gave him the atmosphere that we used to do. I just love my little boy and I don't wanna loose his trust and confident of himself. We never expect that this move made a lots of differences to my kids. The next time we move, I will make it sure that it does not take so long for us to get a place. When we move, we will be visiting to the Philippines when our stuff will be packed again and shipped back to US and when we be back here. Time for us to go back to US. It is hard for them though... New of everything!

Mary is trying to hit Ben on his head. Poor Ben, he does not know I think...........
Benjamin tickled his sister, Mary loves it when Benjamin is playing with her.................


Mary made her Daddy a horsy.... she loves to do that... you can see that she is enjoying it.

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Landed at Yokota Airbase

This is at the outside of Yokota Airbase, we were not allowed to take photos inside the base. It is prohibited and mind you we were escorted by police officers. So, we better behave ourselves LOL. It is really interesting here in Japan. See! we are suppose to drive in the other side of the road. Their road system is opposite to the US. It is very interesting. I am going to try to drive here and I am sure I will get used to it. We will buy a used car. Getting a new car is pretty expensive and we do not need a new car. We are just wasting money.

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World Airlines from Seatac to Yokota AB

This photo was taken when we were at the plane. We are starting our journey to Japan. This is a great tours for all of us. Bear on me I will post photos here.

This is my first post when we got here in Japan. If you like to read just click the link Our Travel Day from SEATAC to YOKOTA Airbase. Have fun reading, this is a long write ups.

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Narrow Streets

I just could not imagine that Japan has a narrow streets. People are kind enough of giving a way to pedestrians and even to bicyclist. Bicyclist has always the right of way so we need to be careful not to disturb them. Japanese people are so quiet. I was expecting a wide open space but I was wrong with my expectation. I am so thankful to Sheelah and Gracie for giving me a head up information about Japan. This is a great adventure for me and my family.

Today is Sunday and we are trying to get out at the base and look outside the gate. We first went to 100 yen store. It is pretty cool though. There are lots of Japanese came to this store and bought stuff. When we were walking along the road, there are some stalls outside the buildings. I think that is their market in every Sunday. They displayed stuff.. well as for me I just called them junks LOL.

Benjamin was trying to buy a clock for him and he even look what is on the display. He is very curious of everything. He thinks I might wear those, he kept saying this is for Mom.. oh yeah right! I am not wearing those blings...LOL

House Hunting

Brian and I were started looking for different houses here in Japan last Thursday afternoon. We first went to the house which is the road is so narrow and it is scary to drive. Japan is a nice country, the people are nice too. Oh boy! the house that we first saw was really nice but the road is not ok with me to drive the car. It is very narrow and I don't like to walk in a very hilly road. That was our first choice with regards to the distance to the work of Brian but then I dislike the road. The agent was so nice but then she brought us this place which is scary road to drive lol. She brought us to the next one which is really Japanese style of home. I really like it but then our queen size bed does not fit to go upstairs. I just love that house but we are also considering the furnitures that we brought. We wished we did not bring our furniture. I just want to have a Japanese living room for entertainment our guest. I just love to have one. I know that Japanese people will appreciate my effort to make it. The tatami mats really impressed me how cool to have one in my own home in WA. The third house that we saw is nice, it was built 1987. It has a big kitchen but the hallway is so narrow and our sofas does not fit on it because it is kind of fat lol.. I just love the second house, it has 3 rooms that has tatami mats but I dislike the kitchen- it is on the old side. The sink is kind of dirty look and I am very particular with the kitchen look.
There is another agent that brought us to their vacant apartments. I just like it, there is one tatami mats in a living room, and the rest are wood floors. Brian hate wood floor but we were talking of putting an area rug. Wood floors are cold during winter. Tomorrow Sunday, We are going to have another agent to meet but I am committed to this place. We brought Benjamin's power wheels so he can run his car going to the park. I just love the location because it is on the ground floor and there is no stairs. When we were looking to that 3 previous houses, Brian and I think right away that it is really dangerous for Mary that she gonna fell down on the stairs. That was our big concern. I just love this place anyways. It is a combination of a western and Japanese type of complex.

I was glad when Brian check our bank online, our cash advance is already there and we are going to use for the deposti, one month advance rent, agent fee and owner's fee. Oh boy! I think it will be totalled to more than 8 thou $. I am hoping that we don'thave any problem with the pay for our rent. It is hard for us this time because we still paying our 2 cars eventhough it is on consignment right now.. got to go.. CIAO

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Planning to go to US Embassy here in Tokyo

Before we left from WA, Brian and I were talking of getting my passport here in Japan but we don't have idea where is the embassy. When we got here Feb 1st, the following week we will be having an AOB class. It is an area orientation briefing for newcomer here at the base. They need to conduct briefing or else we will be looking bad by the Japanese people. Japan is the host country for US Military bases and we need to respect them. They are polite and nice people.

By the way, this coming Friday. We will be going to Tokyo and apply for my blue passport. We were using brown as an official passport. So then, we, family can go anywhere in asia. I wanna visit Philippines and show Mary to my families there.

We might hit Disneyland. Hubby was looking into consideration of visiting the parks.

Crepes House at Daeie Mall

After we ate sushi, we head up to the mall and saw crepes house. Brian and I were very curious about the crepes. We both love crepes but then this is pretty cool and yummy looking crepes. They have different types of stuff. This is how they make my crepes ...with mango ice cream and I think the white stuff was a coolwhip with banana in it. It is so yummy, I tell you.
I think that is a whipcream.....taste like whipcream when I ate it LOL.

And now she put the mango ice cream....hmmm looks good. You can see on the side that she is getting ready to peel the banane and slice it.

This is it... Banana mango crepes... It is yummy. Mary and I shared this. Benjamin got a chocolate sprinkles and Brian got something different. I forgot it. It is hard for us to convince Benjamin that crepes is so good. He refused but when Brian put a little chocolate in his finger and put in Ben's mouth... He tasted it and I think it is good. HE grabbed the crepes and eat it. This kid is so funny.

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First out to the base

2/07/2006

Today was our 3rd AOB Class but then they kept us for two hours lecture and then we had our field trip of our own using their public transportation like trains and buses.

First, we drop the kids to the homeday care before we went to the lecture. I feel terrible because both kids were crying when we left and so Brian. I just could not imagine leaving my two angels to a stranger homeday care but we have no choice. The nice thing she is certified provider by the Naval base that made me calm.

After the lecture, we went to DBIDS for entering our names to the database in their computers so they will scan our ID and we are good to go. We have an agent to meet for showing us a house and met her at 11am at Navy Lodge. She is a nice lady. We did not pick up the kids yet but we went for ourselves.

This is the photo of Benjamin holding hands to Brian, the first time we went out from the base. It is fun though. I am not expecting too much in this trip because I know Benjamin is getting tired. We are on our way to the mall.

Benjamin and Mary standing up, this is at Daeie Mall near at the gate. It is early spring now, they have few flowers at theri store.

We ate lunch/dinner here at Sushi conveyor thing. oh boy! it is pricy but then it is okay anways. We were trying many kinds of food. We ate crepe too stuffed with sweet stuff.

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At Daiei Mall

This is the front of the Daiei Mall and I took this photo at the other side of the street when we were wandering off. We were on our way to Mikasa Shopping Mall at Blue Street.
This is inside the Mall.... it is SPRING NOW!

Look at our Ben and Mary. They look so cute on their photos. We were at Daiei Mall. This is the mall next to the main gate of the base. I think it is about 3 to 5 minutes walk from the gate.

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2nd Day at AOB class

2/06/2008

This morning we started a little bit early. We woke up at 5AM and not as early than the other day. We prepare ourselves and eat breakfast early. We were trying to feed the kids but they are not eating that much. We left here at the lodge at 7:30AM, Brian tried to get a cab but we saw Phil and his wife Rene hurrying to get to the bus stop because the bus is there already. We were running too quickly and we catch the bus. Oh boy! This is one of the things that I missed in my life- a car. I missed my mini van and I am wishing to get a driver license here and that will be on Friday. We are going to take a written a test in driving here in Japan. Japan is totally different from our driving in America. We are driving in a wide open space.

So then, we drop the kids to Nikki's place and Benjamin was crying because he wanted to go with us. We stayed a little bit long so he started to think that we will leave them there again at Nikki and he was right. We told him that we will be back. It teared my heart apart if anybody watching my kids and they were crying when we leave. Brian felt a little different that Benjamin was crying and calling for Daddy and Mommy. It is hard though but we need to attend this class on how to blend and respect the culture of Japanese. We wanted ourselves to be respected and so the Japanese people. It is just so funny because few Filipinos never think that I am a Filipino and I think this is a good thing. Maybe some Japanese think that I am Japanese too. I just remembered when we were there in San Diego. Filipinos never say hi or give me a smile eventhough I smiled at them but when we went to the Chinese-American Church. The Chinese lady was talking to me a Chinese language, she thought that I am. I told her that my grandmother is half Chinese and that's why I have a little eyes.

I just could not imagine how important to learn in speaking and writing Japanese languages but our speaker this morning from FFSC said that speaking and writing is pretty easy but I think it is not! We learned lots of things about Japan, their culture is the best thing to know first before you met them. I think I am ready to meet them but my Japanese words is not that great. I need to learn more. Actually there phonetic characters is base on english, they have two Japanese characters which is base in english phonetic- the hiragana and katakana and Kanji characters is a little bit harder to learn. I was trying to write characters and it is hard though but it is fun. We learned how to count from 1 to infinity LOL. It is a combination to their numbers and use your mathematics to come up with the right number just like 256, in Japanese it is nihyaku gojuroku. It is pretty cool the ni is two, hyaku is 100 - it is 2x100=200 and the go is 5 and ju is 10= which 5x10=50 and roku is 6. and so that is why Nihyaku gojuroku. It is pretty cool to learn huh! But I love it. I know I will be used to to use all of this during this tours. I will make a website for our Japan tours and posted it to my personal site or even in my blogs.

In every break, we kept calling the kids how are they doing. I am wishing that they can come with us but they are a hassle or the kids disturb us by our learning. It is odd to leave the kids all day. I am not used to the idea and so Brian. The first time for the kids to be away from us all day. Mary is doing better that we thought but Ben is doing worse. We heard from Nikki that he bit one of the kid that she is watching. It is kind of sad though, he bever bit a kid before. Brian and Benjamin had a long talk this evening, Brian asking him why he bit the kid and he says, the kid bonking my head and he got hurt but he promise not to do it again. Well it is pretty not cool. Brian could face Nikki what Benjamin doing today but it is done and I hope the kid is fine.

One of our break this morning, Brian sneak out again and went to PSD for my ID. We had a lot of trouble of getting my ID. I feel intimidated that I don't have a proper identity here at the base. My WA drivers license is not honored and only passport is my identity. When Brian got back from PSD, I found out that we don't need to come at lunch break to PSD because the lady who help us will get some more information.

Lunch break, we had lunch at Officers club with Phil and Rene. I thought only officers can get in there but everyone is welcome to dine in. They have a nice restaurant, when you get in. They have a plate of food that you can see displayed on the table. Oh boy! I forgot to take photos of it. I just wanna show it to you. It is their specials of the day which is really cool idea. You have the idea how much food you can get. Brian was getting their one of the special which is Japanese special which is burger something. Their special included a dessert which lemon custard cheesecake. We both did not ordered a drink and we paid a little. Their sweet potato soup is good too. After our lunch, we head to the EXchange because Brian wanted to buy a strip, our room does not have lots of outlets and we need more. We found out that they did not let anybody get in if you don't have ID. I was a bit upset but then the lady there was doing her job. It made me feel rejected and kept hoping to get an ID today.

We went back to Benny Deck Theater for our next class and at the break. Brian and I hurriedly went to PSD office. There is a little shower in the outside but it is manageable to walk. It is kind of wasting money if we are going to take a cab where it is a walking distance. We got there at 5 till 2PM and we were hoping to get it fast. They wanted to serve us but then we were waited for the lady who help us for a go signal. Brian's command is new here and ID card people don't have us on their list of approved people. Also the Human Resources people that generate the ID Card request claim they don't work for our command. This is getting hard but the head of the ID card person got disgusted with what was happening with us and went ahead and issued one to us. She could tell we were entitled to one of even if we could not get the right paperwork. She generated the forms required and then got us the ID needed. She is very helpful to us and I heard her saying yesterday that she will alwasy help her co-Washingtonians people. I am glad with that. I was so happy with all her help and Brian is planning to drop off a cup of of her favorite coffee on her office as a say thank you.

I am now a happy person, I finally have an ID and have an identity here at the base. We went back to the theater and catch the next course. We missed an hour class. Oh well, we were planning to come in next week and learn more about Japanese.
After the class, Rene and I went together and pick up the kids. Brian and Phil went to go see Tom their boss. We head to the lodge and get a little rest. Brian got back and we bought dinner to go at Chilis. Kids were getting fussy and sleepy and then I asked them to go to sleep. Ben resisted because he wanted to watch TV. I do laundry and I did not get my laundry because I was falling asleep. zzzz snooze..zzzz we are all tired.
We are looking forward for our field trip tomorrow by riding trains and buses. I need not to forget my camera or else I can get photos. I will post photos tomorrow evening when we will be back from the trip. CIAO!

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Things I've learned in Japanese Culture

I know that Japanese people bow when they are going to greet you. But there is a deepest meaning of that. Bowing is a sign of respect and it is greetings too. The more you low in bowing to them, the more they feel that they respected their culture and traditions. Some Japanese people, I seen them when they bow and say good morning or any greetings and then after that they shake hands. They are also respecting your culture. So, it is a kind of double act of saying respects and greetings. That is pretty cool huh. People here honored or respected the old folks and I think I love this culture. This is really exciting in exploring and understand their culture.

Giving of Gifts - When you move in a Japanese neighborhood. We need to introduce ourselves and give them a little gift such as cookies or anything that it seems you think it is special. Bake cookies are one of the best gift to give it to them. Maybe on the next day, you hear a knock on the door and they give you gifts too. When they wrapped gifts, they spent lots of time in wrapping it so when you receive a gift from them. Don't open it right away because it is unmannered. Receive the gift and then put it away.

Road System, their vehicle is right hand drive and they drive in an opposite road in US. I think I do not have any problem in driving in here. Some people say, it is scary to drive in town but I run some people here and they said. I can drive in here but I need to be careful in driving because if you got an accident there is a big story in it. Eventhough it is not your fault, you are going to say apologies for interrupting their time and they are going to tell you too.

Dialing 911 in the USA, here in Japan you are going to dial 119 which is opposite to the US. This is really funny but that is what they are using in here.

Their faucet at sinks- it is opposite. It is really funny. Their faucet at the shower it looks also complicated.

I need to learn to speak and write Japanese. Living here for 3 years made me a big challenge in learning to speak and write Japanese. It is really cool to know that Japanese has three characters they used. The Kanji, Hiragana and Katakana. Learning to write is fun though...

Got to go.. CIAO

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First Day at AOB class

02/05/2008

Today is Tuesday and we will be having an AOB class for newcomers here in Japan.

Brian woke up early this morning at 4:30AM but then because Benjamin told him that he did not have pants. Benjamin went to the bathroom and he got wet from his peed so he took it off and put it on the laundry basket. What a very good boy! He is learning then. I was awoke early too because Mary wanted me to nurse her. I did not bother to go back to sleep because I wanna finish writing my journal. The kids went back to sleep. We prepared ourselves and woke up Mary and Ben at about 6:45AM by changing their clothes. Bundle up again, it is chilly in the outside. Brian decided that we are going to take a cab this morning because both buses are not here yet. We were at cab no. 5 and the driver took us to Ayame Heights.

We drop Benjamin and Mary at a homeday care provider at Ayame Heights around 7:20AM. We were hoping for a daycare center where there are lots of kids that Benjamin can play with but they are full and we referred it here at a home care. The lady name Nikki, that is her nickname- She is a very a nice lady and I think we found a great sitter for our kids if I wanted to to have something to do during the day here at the base.

After we drop them off, we head to Benny Deck Theater right away. It is just a walking distance so we walk to get there. I feel different that the kids are not with us. We planned to call Nikki every break we have just to get an update how the kids doing. I am very much concerned to Mary because she was not used to of going to the others house without me. We were relieved that Mary was doing fine. She said that she was upset for an hour on and off but then when she saw that the baby woke up. She was so happy to see the baby. I was so glad that she is doing fine. Eventhough she screams for crying, it does not bother to Nikki because she got used to it. She knew that she will be settled down after an hour or two. It is really amazing how she did the baby sitting. She has two girls of her own and then another two kids which is mine. She is really amazing. I don't know how she did it. We kept calling her in every of our break. I just don't feel like that the kids are away from me. I always concerned to my little one.

Brian and Phil, his boss sneaked out and went to HRO office. They want to take care of the stuff that they needed to do. I was hoping to get an ID today but I could not it yet. They sent to another office again in PSD and I am hoping that tomorrow I can get an ID. I felt intimadated of having no ID. I just found out that I am supposedly cannot come go inside the Commissary and NEX. Oh boy!

The class was kinda boring but then we never have any choice at all. Well for me, information was fine and there are some new rules that we did not knew. Japan is really different. When the class was ended, Brian and I headed right away to her home and picked up the kids. I just could not believe it, the two looks so happy. Nikki was pleased that Mary was smiling until we picked her up. She kept saying Mama... dede LOL.. She is really cute when she say it. Benjamin won't listen to her and I think this little kid needs to shape up his behavior. It is really my fault if his attitude is like that. Because I am not serious enough to do the timeout. It is both of Brian and I, Ben was a bit spoiled brat.

We head back to the hotel and tried to figure out what we gonna have for dinner. We were talking of having dinner at Officers Club Restaurant but it seemed a big pain in the neck to bring out the kids so I cook some chicken and we had wondeful dinner. It is simple but yummy!

I will get going now, need to get some sleep. ciao!

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First Monday in Japan

02/04/2008

We woke up early this morning and I think I like the idea of waking up early and then go to sleep early too. We were getting ready for our first day of work. Well, it is Brian's first day of work with us. We are taking care of stuff from housing, PSD for my ID, post office, and arranging daycare for Ben and Mary for 4-day AOB class.

We first go to housing brief which their office is adjacent to the Navy Lodge. It is about 5 feet away from the main door. It is pretty cool, we won't go out and get cold LOL. We found out that only Brian will be the one doing it because we have kids. The kids are not allowed and we went to the playroom. We were playing there and then I decided to go up in our room because Mary was sleepy and tired. Benjamin wanted to bring toys out in a play area. I won't let him do that or else he got used to that idea. Ben got mad and does not want to go with me. I was trying to explain it to him but he won't listen. He was very upset at me and I ended up of giving him a spank which I don't want him to have it. I just made my patience so long so I won't give him any spank. He knew that if I got mad I spank him.

We went up in our room with a crying Benjamin and Mary kept saying "dede". She wanted me to nurse her and then go to sleep. She went to sleep and Benjamin was not crying anymore. I just give him a lots of hugs and kisses and tickles. He loves tickling LOL and he was laughing and giggling. This little man loves me so much. When we went to Navy Exchange Benajmin handed me a box of chocolate which is a heart shape and say" HAppy Valentine Mom. He said I am his valentine. He is a very sweet boy.

Brian went up into our room and he did phone calls if we can get a day care for four days when we will be attending to the 4-day AOB class. Oh, If you don't know what is AOB, it is Area Orientation Brief. We found out that the daycare center is full and they referred to a home daycare. I was reluctant to put the kids but there is no other choice, they are full. We have a little problem, we did not request a medical record for both children and they need their immunization shots. We need to call the Doctors Clinic then.

After all the calling we made, Brian called the lady who will watching our kids. He said, she seems a nice lady. We were getting ready to go to the office and sign up paperworks. We were asking for a fax number so the doctors clinic will fax directly to their office but then they gave us the wrong number. We got to see Nikki and her place. She is very nice lady I can tell the way she talk. So I am not extremely worried to leave the kids to the home which we don't know. She is certified as a home day care. After we took care of it, we decided to eat at Taco Bell and then

After we ate lunch, we head to PSD to get an ID. It was a big frustration when they said that they can't serve us because we don't have a proper paperwork. The black lady came out from the office and talk to Brian and she gave also direction to go to HRO office. She is very nice lady and has the urge to help to anyone. She is very helpful.So, we walk to HRO office and then we saw Phil and his family. They have also few problems. The staff gave them a schedule tomorrow at 10AM for taking care of the glitch. After that, we head to the lodge and Phil and his family went to the other office for their son Jake. We split it up.

We were extremely disappointed but I know this will be taking care of. God is always there to give us solutions in every problems we have. Everything will be working out if God is there. So, we call it a day and get a rest. I

We were all tired and sleepy and get an early snooze... ciao!

Skip Church

02/02/2008

We just could not figured it out where is the church here and we are still had jetlag. Our body clock were screwed up, yes we woke up early in the morning 2:30AM. Ben and Mary are wide awake and wanted to play. They run around in the room eventhough the light was turn off. Mary was giggling and kept calling me Mommy and she touch my face a lot so I will be waking up. They are so noisy and we were hoping that the people living on the next door was not extremely disturbed from our noise. Brian and I were hoping that they will be back to sleep but they don't. We put them back to bed, Ben and Mary kept wiggling in bed and they even giggles and give a tickling to each other. Brian was a bit upset because he wanted to sleep more. He was awake a lot last night because it was really noisy in the outside.

Our room was cracked open eventhough it is cold in the outside. We could not control the room temperature eventhough the heater was off. They have centralized heater and the heat flow up in the ceiling and they did not give a control knob in every room, which it is really stinks. People have different preferences of room temperature. People have different body response to heat and my hubby is a warm blooded man so what do you expect. If I am comfortable then he is roasting, sweating all over. So, I better wrap myself with blanket and give him the right temperature. So, that's why we open the window a little bit. But then the people coming in and out at the Navy Lodge were very noisy. I just remembered that a guy screaming in the outside. Our room was on top of the reception area. It kept Brian awake but when he is going to close the window. The room started to warm up and kept him awake. He could not win. Kids does not want to go bed still eventhough we give them a solitary place. We were hoping that they will be sleeping.

So, Brian went down to the front desk and asked if we could change to another room. The lady that she spoke that there is vacancy today and it is on the fourth floor. I was planning to arrange our clothes to the drawers but after all. I did not bother to do it but instead we pack our stuff again and then put it in the storage here at the Navy Lodge. The room is not ready after noon.

About with the kids, we let them watch TV. I was extremely forgot that it is Sabbath here in Japan. I just felt that it is Friday. God will forgive me. Brian was asking me to have a bath and I let him or else he will be cranky all day. Actually he is at the bath right now and read the welcome instructions as a new movers here in Japan. We have so many things to learn aside from the Japanese cultures, languages and traditions. They are very cautious and watchful so we need to be careful our actions. I am planning to take classes for learning Japanese language and it is free to get it here on base which is really cool. Oh boy! we found out that we need more groceries from the store but there is no way we can buy a lot of perishable food because our fridge is pretty small.

After we pack our stuff, Brian put it in the storage and then we head to the Navy Exchange. We dressed up ourselves and bundle up. It is pretty cold up here. We rode a bus and we found out that they have two different routes. It is a clockwise and counter clockwise routes. It is pretty odd though. But only counter clockwise will run during Saturday and Sunday and even Holidays. They have stalls of a to-go restaurant like Taco Bell and many more. We ate late breakfast/lunch. I grabbed from the Oriental Restaurant, a beef and rice with two egg rolls. Brian was upset with them because they have the list of menus but when you asked that that is what you want. Then they will tell you, they don't have it. So, Brian decided to get his food from Taco Bell. Benjamin wanted to eat Donuts and Mary shared my food. Mary is always eat pretty well. While Benjamin always a picky boy.

After we ate, we head to the Navy Exchange but we end up of going to the baby/toddler/teens clothes. I was just so curious what they have in there. They have also separate building for furnitures and even to the main store at NEX. This is the NEX store that I seen which is really big. You can see everything in here and you do not need to go out in the base or in town and buy stuff. But it is pretty cool to wander around the neighborhood. Brian and I does not have a plan to go out yet, I will never go out as soon as I have my ID or else I can't get in in the base. I am scared, I better be safe than sorry. We saw Phil and his wife Rene and son Jake at NEX. They are also wandering off around the neigborhood. They are a nice family and we were talking of having dinner together at Chilis at 5pm.

The Commissary store - We were gonna go there and look around but I just told to Brian to go back to the Navy Lodge. I am not thrilled enough to go inside while I do not have any ID at all. My WA Drivers license is not valid in here, only my passport is my valid identity. Mary was also fussy and sleepy. I just want her to go to sleep and rest. Poor baby! We were all tired. We ride in a bus again. I am not sure if I like this way. Riding in a bus to get to from point A to point B. I don't like to wait eventhough their buses here are fine to ride but I don't like the waiting idea and running just to catch the bus. I just wanna do things with all my time.

So, we got back here at lodge at around 1pm and then we checked in again. Bring all the bags to fourth floor room 417. Brian and I were arranging our stuff again, putting our clothes in the drawer and putting away our suitcases. It is almost 5pm and it is time for us to go to Chilis for a dinner with Phil's, Rene and Jake.

On our way to Chilis Restaurant, Mary was still sleeping. Benjamin was tired and he wanted to sleep but we will try to keep him awake. Poor Ben! I carried Mary and even the breeze of the air did not even kept her awake. When we got to the Chili's, she was awake and then she wanted to go back to sleep. I find a sit and then I nurse her again and she went back to sleep. Benjamin was playing his toy but before that, he wanted to go inside the video arcade but it is gamble games right there. It is not really cool that Ben can't come in and play. So we were called and our table is ready. A japanese lady was serving us and she was so nice but we were careful what we were saying because she did not speak english pretty well. I just had a salmon with garlic and herbs pair with a drink of mango ice tea sweetened. We had a wonderful dinner together. We asked the server to bring us first Ben's food or else he will be sleeping. He eat a little bit on his fries but then his eyes were very tired and fell asleep. So both kids are sleeping now LOL.

After our dinner, Brian and I carrying the kids and it is so hard though. I almost cracked my back which is really bad if I did. Yes Mary is not that heavy but the moment that you are carrying across the parking and then going up to our room is not fun at all. We let the kids sleep and did not bother to wake them. We are hoping that they will be sleeping good. Brian and I were heading to bed too. We were all tired still. ciao z z z z z z z snooze z z z z z z z.

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weather in yokosuka japan

02-03-2008 Sunday
When we got here the temperature at Yokota Airbase was 40 deg farenheit and it is pretty much they same in Belfair WA when we left. Yesterday was being so chilly. This early morning Brian woke up and close the window, it is getting cold inside our room and there is no way that we can control the temperature knob. I woke up the noise of the wind and I was really curious what is that noise. The wind blows so hard diagonally. I never seen like this before. Our window is facing in the ocean and the wind strike so hard in our window. I have phobia of wind and I am living like this within the next 3 or 5 years.

We knew that we have only few food and I don't wanna eat peanut butter and jelly sandwich for my breakfast. So, Brian decided to go out and buy something at the Main Street USA. This street has lots of stall of food chains, I won't say food court. There is subway, cinnabon, A&W, Sbarru and on the next building I think about 30 yeards away, there is McDonald.

When Brian went there, I was worried when I was looking in the window. The wind was blowing so hard and there is snow falling in the ground. The wind blow horizontally. The snow hit on the window and not even melting. I was looking the time and I figured Brian will be here soon. You know my husband, he is a stubborn man. I was asking him not to come out and go to Comsmissary. He went out and there again.. the wind blows so hard with a snow in it. I just called it blizzard. The people here were very amazed because they never get snow during winter on the ground more than two times. When he got back, I was relieved. I took his jacket because his feet was frozen to death. He got called, he was trying to warm up himself at the heater and even soak his feet at the warm water at the tub.

The weather here in Japan is just like US. I just like to have like that but I don't like strong wind. I am hoping that since we are here, we will never experience too much strong wind. It scared me to death.

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The day we left at Seatac for Japan

1/31/2008 - I write this journal on our trip....

Brian started his morning at 4:10AM. He finished packing our luggage. He was a busy hubby and a busy Daddy. I always love this man. He is our main author of our trip. He let me sleep in and the kids but I woke up when the alarm went off. I helped him a little bit in packing and then Mary decided to wake up and I nurse her so she went back to sleep. The kids need more sleep as we do so they have all the strenght to keep them going to the trip. Brian prepared himself and wanted to take a shower but he decided not to or else he will be sweaty after all carrying those 4 luggages, 1 balikbayan, and 1 duffle bag. I just wanna help him with those luggages but he prepared to do it by himself because we are just a pain in a butt when we will be with him. It is a little bit faster for him to do it and less stress while looking after with the kids. It is also cold for the kids to go out that early.

Brian left at 5:30AM because the bus left every 30 minutes. We need to check-in 6 hours before the plane left. So that's why we had an early start of the day. I was falling asleep while nursing Mary and I heard that there is sound of the door trying to get in using keycard and it was Brian. I was looking at the time at the microwave and it was 6:58AM. It took an hour and 1/2 for Brian to get back to the hotel. Brian told me right away to prepare ourselves because they started to board at 8:45 and it is 2 hours early. I just could not imagine how early it was. So then Brian head to the bathroom and take a shower and I was finished packing our carryon bag. We are a little unorganize with our stuff but we are just fine anyways. We left some of the stuff that we did not want to take. We were looking for weight and we does not want lots of weight to carry. It is being hard with the kids when we will be passing at the gates. It is a pain to get to the gate with all the stuff we have. I took a quick shower and I let Benjamin join in my shower when I was almost done. He does not want to take a shower. He was trying to fight his Dad but Brian was carrying him and put in the tub. He is a funny kid. We quickly change our clothes and it is wake time anyways. We went to dining area and get a little food for breakfast.

We left at the hotel at 8:00AM and the bus driver was helping Brian for our luggages. It was a pretty cold morning and we head to the gate right away. Benjamin was really good in taking off his shoes and watching what are they going on the metal detector. He took off his jacket and he helped us too putting our stuff in a bins. He is really a helper. After we passed the gate, Benjamin saw the play area and he was upset because we did not stop there and let him play. We wanted to but we are hurrying to the gate. I carried him so he won't run back but then he hurt me by kicking his foot and it hit on my legs. My legs was really painful and I gave him a slapped on his face. I feel really bad because I did not meant to do that. I was got shocked and the pain of my legs and I wanted him to stop kicking me. He was crying and when I saw on his face, I saw the mark of my fingers. Brian was a bit upset but then it was done and I am praying that I won't give any pain like this to my son. I love my son and there is times that he hurt me and I gave him a spank. I really feel bad and I know Benjamin forgive me. He loves me so much and I love him so much.

Benjamin resisted to ride in an elevator and kept saying I wanna come back and play. Train came and then he kept saying he want to come back. We head to S-gate 15 and I was wishing that our gate is not far enough to the play area so he can play it then. I was trying to tell him to stop saying I wanna come back and play but then I asked Brian if it is okey now to tell him that we bought a PSP video game for him for this trip. He did not see the PSP yet and I told him that Daddy has a surprised for him. He finally settled down and eager to play the game. He had still a sad on his face, the pain that I gave it to him. Poor baby! He was very excited that he finally have a PSP 2 and he kept playing this when we went to best buy store.

Brian handed the toy to Benjamin and he was pressing anything on the screen. He accidentally set to German language and he handed to Brian because he cannot get in on the game. Brian was a bit disappointed because he could not understand German language. I kept eyeing on the gate if they started to board and I just finally asked Brian to go near at the gate. We were walking and look some place to sit. But there were lots of people and almost all of the seat were occupied. Brian saw his officemate Phil- he will be his boss when we will be landed in Japan. I finallly met his wife and his son. We were talking about the toy that set into German and it was nice to know that Phil's son Jake took a German class. Brian handed the toy to him and he was trying to figure out. He fixed the language, it is really cool if your kid knew other languages. We sit near at them and have a little chat. How all things were going crazy preparing for this trip. Brian and Phil were talking and I went to the side and nurse Mary. I am hoping that she can get a little nap or else she will be arching her back because she is so tired and sleepy. She sleeps and I am so happy with it.

Brian manage to call our insurance company and drop our coverage for our two cars and the house. While Benajmin was so busy pressing buttons on his new toy. I was letting him watch the movie ice age because it is hard for me to figure out how to play the games. I hate video games and I just don't wanna learn it or else I will get addicted. Brian was also asking the staff attending the gate and he manage to check in the stroller and let them install Mary's car seat for us. Brian is a smart guy and wanted to make things a little bit easier for us. I know it is hard that he will be the one to bring all our carry on bag and he is attending Benjamin. We heard an announcement that they are going to start boarding and they called the group that has little children. I carry my computer backpack on my back and carried Mary while Brian carried all the stuff. I was looking after at Ben because he loves to wander around. I was telling to Ben not to touch the hand rail because I am so sure that that is dirty and I am right. His hand was covered with dust and it marked on his palms. He is a little bit tired and I think he is hungry too. Plane finally taking off at 9:45AM and we are on our way to Japan. I asked that we will be holding hands and I had a silent prayer for us that God will keep us safe in our trip. God is good to us. We had lots of hardships for the last two weeks of our stay in Belfair but then we surpassed it.

It was not safe for us to get up yet, the plane was trying to be in the right elevation and Mary was crying and her cry is a hungry cry. I asked Brian to get some food in our bag but we need to wait a bit and he has a chocolate M and M's on his pocket and Mary was eating it. She is really hungry. They served beverages and snacks but cookies is not enough for a hungry stomach. When it was safe enough to turn on our electronics, we let Benjamin play the PSP and Mary kept whining. She was hungry and could eat a half side of the beef hehehe. She does not have any proper breakfast, she had a little bite of raisin bread and few spoonfuls of yogurt which we grabbed from the hotel. I asked Brian to get an egg and she was eating almost the entire boiled egg. The lady flight attendant was amazed that Mary was eating boiled egg. They also play movie Simpson and it kept Benjamin's occupied aside from playing his video game.Benjamin kept drinking soda pop and went to the bathroom a lot. It kept Brian get up because he really standing up and head to the toilet.

Not long enough, they served lunch. They knew that we were still hungry eventhough they served snacks. Well this may help us filling up because their food is not really that big serve. Mary got a pasta, I got chicken teriyaki and so Brian and Benjamin. I found out that pasta is too spicy for Mary, her palate is not old enough to take those spicy taste. I let her eat my chicken which is on the sweet side. Benjamin never bothered to eat his food. After Brian ate his food, he was trying to help Benjamin on his food. Benjamin does not want any but he manage to eat rolls. Mary eat pretty well enough to keep her happy. I just love it when they eat, I feel satisfied that the stomach of my kids are full.

Now the second movie is on- the Transformer and since Mary got a happy tummy. She was ready for me to nurse her and go to sleep because I saw her holding her lala blanket and kept it running on her nose and her face. She is so cute when she did that. I was falling asleep while nursing and I think my mouth was opened hahaha and I hope they did not see any saliva coming from my mouth yuckks!!!! I did not feel anything anyways lol and I think I am safe with that. I am not sure if the people passing saw my breast while I was nursing Mary. Well I was just too tired and sleep- I just don't care. It is done. I woke up from my chicken nap and I was trying to put Mary on her car seat. I was so glad that she did not wake up and I had a break of my arms and then went to the toilet.

We are still watching movie right now while I was writing this journal and I will continue more later. I am going to finish watching the last part of the movie Transformer. I think we are half way in our trip now. I took out my bag from the bag compartment and I saw that my cellphone was turning on, I thought it was off and I glance that it is 2:41pm US Time. So, we have almost 5 hours more to go. Mary woke up then she is wide awake and has lotf of energy recharge. Oh boy! she got fussy because she wants to get out on her seat and check around the neighborhood. I let her walk at the hallway and stretch her legs. Benjamin was on feet too and Brian was on feet too.. to chase Benjamin - to keep out in trouble. I just could not imagine how difficult it is to travel with little children. Oppps! Another snacks are getting ready to serve it to us. They keep us hydrated and give an entertain in our mouth or else the more we get bored. They run another movie which I don't care to watch. It seemed a weird movie and Mary kept me busy anways in walking along the hallway.

Benjamin decided to sit it again and give Brian a break of chasing him out of trouble. The fourth movie is on which is Spiderman 3. He was watching though but I was hoping not to. Benjamin like spiderman 1. They are still getting fussy and bedtime is passed already.They served dinner now and we all had chicken with mashed potato and cut steamed carrots and have sides with pasta salad, rolls, brownie and cheese with crackers. Food keep us going entertaining with our mouth. Mary eat pretty well enough but Benjamin eat a little bit. He really changed his diet plan.

We were so excited when the pilot announced that we will be landed in about an hour. Brian and I kept entertaining the kids to keep them occupied. I pressed the call button so the flight attendant can give me liquid. I was starting to get thirsty and I am afraid if there is no liquid available in the ground right away. Nobody came and it slipped in my mind that I feel thirsty because I was busy entertaining Mary. The seat belt lights turn on but they said that if we wanted to go to the toilet for the last time before the landed we better do it now. We landed at 1:40PM Japan time. It was being hard to get off on the plane. The passengers that had connecting flight was called first and then we were the last getting off on the plane. We finally have on our feet on the ground at about 2:30PM. They excorted us by picking us a bus to get to the building at the custom area. We were in line and it was a horrible line. I feel that I almost got collapsed for being so dry. I was really really thirsty and so Benjamin was asking apple juice and we could not give any. Benjamin was also tired and he almost lying down on the floor and sleep. We kept letting him entertained. After the custom thing, we headed to the exit area and look for our baggage. We thought we lost 3 bags but we saw it on the other side of the baggage area. The stroller was broken at the front side where kept Mary. I was a bit upset though but our stroller had done lots of service anyways.

Brian moved our luggages and we found out in our way out that there is a bending machine and I am glad that the coins in my pocket were plenty enough to buy three bottles of drink. Ben got an apple juice. I got a sprite and Benjamin was asking me to buy a dew for his Dad. He is a sweet boy, he is always thinking his Dad that his Dad is thirsty too. After Ben and Brian went to the restroom, we head to the bus and find a seat. Brian's boss was with us in the bus. The Japanese guy who is the driver of the bus gave a hello gestures by nodding. I just love when they do that and of course we responded with nodding. He said, it took 2 to 3 hours to get to Yokosuka base but it depends on how the traffic goes. We finally left at 3:03PM and we were all busy looking, observing and taking photos. You can hear lots of clicks from our camera. Mary was a bit fussy because she is sleepy. Benjamin is getting tired more. He got my camera and he manage the memory card full. Brian wassking him to lie and he slept. The kids were finally sleeping in the bus while us adults kept talking and looking around what we passed along the road. We found lots of 7 eleven convenient store here and even Dennys. We were fascinated with the car dealers along the road. . Lots of stuff we saw and I took some photo of it and Brian took over when Mary went to sleep.
We finally got here at Yokusuka Naval Base at around 5:10pm and we checked in at the Navy Lodge. Brian's boss Phil was so kind enough to help us. He and his family were travelling with us, we shared on the same bus to get here at Yokosuka. The kids were still sleeping and we brought them inside the room and still snoozing. SRF wardroom gave us a welcome gift. It is a laundry basket with full of goodies- it is food! They are so cool.
It is really amazing. Brian's boss' boss Tom Murphy meet Phil and Brian downstairs but I went down so quick and meet him and his wife and granddaughter. I never expected that your boss will spend extra more time to meet his subordinates. They make it sure that the newly move family will be taken care of. I went downstairs and meet them there but I did not stay long because the kids still sleeping then. While waiting for Brian to come up in our room, I was putting away our clothes to the drawer and clean a bit in our room by moving our stuff and suitcases. Brian went up in our room and get ready for bed. We were all tired and sleepy z z z z z z z z z......signing off...

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