Our Crazy Navy Life

Watch Out!!

2012-01-09T08:12:00.001+09:00

I just may be back in blog heaven....
It sucks I haven't blogged in such a long time, but I think we may be back in business!
With the iPhone I've just acquired, blogging will be easier than ever.
I can't wait to share all the places we frequent...
With Ava at the 'terrible2's and all... It's hard to blog anything.
Here's to hoping the new gadget I've come upon can be the solution.

Ethan and I

2011-09-30T11:32:00.001+09:00

:-) just a few of us too....

Olivia

2011-09-30T11:29:00.001+09:00

Is almost 10 years old and in 4th grade.

Evan

2011-09-30T11:26:00.001+09:00

Is 6 and a 1/2 now and in 1st grade. He also has lost 3 teeth. :-)

Ava

2011-09-30T08:34:00.001+09:00

Is 19 months old now!

Hello again....

2011-09-30T08:16:00.000+09:00

So it's been about 7 months.

Long time no see!

Wow, so many things have changed in 7 months.

I hope to be filling you in soon.

Look for new photos and updates.

I sure so miss my little old blog........

Photo Update #2

2011-02-19T21:57:00.002+09:00

Here is a few from today, Olivia's basketball game.
She is in the 9~12 yr old league. :)
She is really having fun. :)

Photo update!

2011-02-19T21:02:00.003+09:00

Here are a few shot's of Evan playing 5~6 yr old basketball.
He is enjoying himself, and we love watching him try hard and be all boy! :)

This one is for the MEMORY Books!!!! ~~~>

Photo update

2011-02-12T22:04:00.002+09:00

Ava, Almost 1 year old.

Evan, 6... waiting to play some basketball. (Number 4)

Olivia, 9 playing in the yard....... SNOW!

So busy!!

2011-02-10T11:10:00.003+09:00

Wow! We have been busy.

So, here is the re-cap of the past few weeks.

Ethan is gone. He is working away for now, and will be for a few weeks. I look forward to his call's and Skype call's. Evan and Ava are doing well with his absence, but Olivia is struggling. :(

But, to keep us busy during the weeks --->
The kids have started Basketball! We have practice for both kids at diffrent times 2 times a week per child. Ugh!! Can be so busy, but some days they have practice on the same day and that's nice. We have games on Sat.

Also, Olivia is in Girl Scouts and now i am helping out weekly, so ... We ALL go. Monday is one busy day.

Olivia is also in a Speed Stacking club at school on Thursday Afternoons. We just play at the park, while she is stacking.

Evan is not into to many things, but Olivia sure is.

Ava and Mommy stay busy at home trying to get the house in order and the shopping done.

Yesterday we did a Job for Modeling for Ava. It was a Big Job and lasted 12 hours...You know, Ava was having fun and not upset one bit. Just walked and played. She sure had fun!

It's almost Valentines day and were getting those things together, for school. And the 100th day of school is also coming up and we have potluck's and crafts ... (mostly for Evan).
........... and Field Trips, SIGH......... busy i say!!!

Ok, Well... that's the update from here.

Day ??

2011-02-07T22:13:00.002+09:00

I took the weekend off....
Then, today when i was going to "get it together"... i blew it tonight.
UGH! NEED to get re motivated.
But... the "17 day diet" thing is soooo $$ and over here (in Japan) it's hard to get the food needed. :(

So, i am still going to follow it as i can, and diet as i can.
:) Working out as well.... Keep Cheering me on. :)

The 15th Day....

2011-02-03T16:58:00.004+09:00

So, today was the 15th day of this 17 day cycle.
I had a "free" day. Although it was free, it was not about eating whatever i wanted.
I am still on a plan to loose weight.
No worries.
I did weigh in today, another week gone by.
I only lost just over a pound.
At 1st i thought it was just 1/2 of a pound, but it was a little over a pound after i did the math.
So this makes the 2 WEEK TOTAL at 4.6 pounds.
Not bad for 2 weeks.
Not as good as i hoped with the "promises" this plan offers. But, everything is relative.
I am ok with the loss,.... and i can and will keep on keep'n on.

So, today i planned a day out with a friend and knew i was going to cheat.
I had one Krispy Cream Donut... one Cafe' Latte at Starbucks, the small size. Also... with Very little sugar.
Then for lunch we went to El Torito's in the SKY.
I was worried about this. But, I did good. After looking at the menu i knew what i needed to order. A Salad. A Shrimp Salad.
I wanted all the beans and rice and so on. But, i did good and got a very lite Salad... with Very lite dressing and i ate one Tortilla.
Afterwards we went to the SOGO Food Extravaganza and i bought a few goodies, but only tasted them... and gave the rest away!
SIGH... that was hard, as i love good food....

Anyways, tonight we are having Chicken and Veggies and i am going to try to "get back on the wagon" for tomorrow.

My goal is far off... but this is a lifestyle change. I am making good choices for the future. I am not willing to sacrifice good times with good friends because i am afraid that one day,.... will screw me up forever. It wont~!

I am Keep'n on Keep'n on!!!!

Day 13 !!!

2011-02-01T12:26:00.007+09:00

This cycle is almost over!
Oh Yea!!!!!
5 more days.

I have been 'good'. I had one "bad day" but let me tell you that only consisted of 1/2 of a mixed drink and a bite of ice cream. HEY... we were @ Chili's and i enjoyed it VERY much and not regretting it.
I LOVED the Salmon @ chili's and it hit the spot.

Honestly, i want the carbs... the bread. But, my body is not "craving" it. I only want it because i know how good it is.
Otherwise, i am A OK.
I cant wait to mix up my meals a bit next cycle. YAY for Oatmeal and Brown Rice. (LOL)

I have only weighed in once, but let me tell you i feel FANTASTIC!
I am loosing inches but wont know about the weight until next weigh in, Thursday.
(2 FULL weeks)
My last day on this cycle is the Sunday!

Oh... and i am adding in a "shake" into my diet. It's a Low/No Carb Shake~low cal/fat... and it's only for on -the-go days when i cant/don't pack a lunch or breakfast.
Hey.... it cant hurt, as the other option is a drive thru!

Day 9

2011-01-28T11:09:00.002+09:00

Wow, has it really been 9 days? I feel like i just wrote the "day 3" blog yesterday. Now, if time would continue to fly like this!!

I had a hard day, the day before yesterday. So, i Tried REALLY hard to make yesterday's day the best i could.
I had a mixed veggie omelet for breakfast w/ my coffee and so on.
Then, I packed my lunch because the Daughter's and I were going on a Shopping day (Skipping school).
So, Olivia and I both packed our lunches and headed out. Now, the chicken wraps were not As Delish as i wanted them to be. They dried out a little bit. Live and Learn.
But, dinner was amazing.

We ate with Coleen and Ryan, like we do a few times a week. Dinner was roasted Cajun Chicken nuggets over salad w/ parm mushrooms and roasted brussel sprouts.
I used 2 tbsp of lite ranch... and it was sooooooooooooooo good. :) YAY!

Today is day 9 and i started off this morning wanting something sweet. So, i made a Mock French Toast from the Facebook Blog "17 day diet" and WOW!! So yummy. (basically a Sweet Egg)
One thing this "diet" or "change of life" what every you wanna call it has done for me... is make me fall in LOVE with yogurt. Yummmmy!!!

Weigh In

2011-01-27T06:52:00.002+09:00

Today is the Morning of Day 8 and my official Weigh-In. :):)
I was hoping for at least a 1 pound loss, but nope! 3 TOTAL POUNDS! Whoooooooohooooo!!!
Some great motivation to keep going. :)

Day 6!

2011-01-25T18:14:00.002+09:00

So YAY day 6 has come and gone.
Day 6 has been THE EASIEST so far. Way Easy!!!!
Yesterday i had Very Little hunger pains. I actually don't want to eat much at all.
It's kinda cool.
I am pushing the healthy foods though.

Today i did not exercise, but i was on the "go" all day...
I have burned those cal's via cleaning and walking for sure.

Yesterday was big for me. I packed a lunch!!!
EVERYtime i go to "base" i always run through somewhere for a quick bit of food. Not yesterday!
There was no way i could eat at Taco bell or McDonald's (IMO) on phase one. So, i packed a lunch for while i was out and running errands.
Honestly? I was GOOD!!! And... i had happy to eat it.
I did not want to eat the greasy food anyways. So, i sat in my car between stores and munched on the fresh selection i brought. BREAK THROUGH!!! I can do this, and it's going to be easy!!

Ok, enough of that.
:)
..........Day 6's dinner of rotisserie chicken and salad w/ roasted cauliflower & brussel sprouts was sooooo good! :)

End of the 5th day....

2011-01-24T18:13:00.003+09:00

And it's the end of the 5th day.

I will admit, today was hard.

I reallly wanted to have some SWEETS!!

Breakfast of egg omelet was boring... Lunch of soup was not so bad.

But, i have run out of my favorite Greek yogurt and the berries, so.... i need to go out tomorrow for some more.

And Apple for a snack on a cold day... it's sucking.

Tonight i made Crock pot turkey and it was dry.

:(:(

I served it with a tiny bit of Cream of mushroom soup i added water to... and made into a gravy of sorts. It was low in everything i am watching (sugar) and ... i only used a SMALL amount.

If not, i would not have been able to choke it down. :(

So, today was a success in other areas!!!! I walked 2 times today!!! Once to get Olivia and Evan from school & take them to the girl scout meeting. Then, after the meeting we walked all the way home. That was At Least Two 20 minute "workouts".

Tonight, i am going to focus on pushing the water and green tea.

And, if i get hungry, i will eat the "soup" i made from the book. It's a chicken and veggie soup. It's Really good and keeps me Full.

Day 5 ...

2011-01-24T08:32:00.002+09:00

... and still going strong.
Yesterday (4) was good. No mix up's and i drank the water/green tea.
I did not eat much i think... in Calories, but i was not hungry.
Did push the protein though. :)
Today i woke up NOT feeling the Lemon Water. I am STILL choking it down, 1 hour later.

~ok, just chugged it~

Now... i can have my Coffee and some breakfast. Oh yes!

Yesterday i did not get in my workout, but i did work around the house.
Today? I plan to walk around the neighborhood for a bit.

I will say,... now at day 5 i am feeling Really good. My clothing was already big to begin with (a side effect of not loving tight clothing) and so ... this morning my pants were falling down with every step. lol
Water weight is water weight.... it's STILL weight! :) I am loving this UN bloated feeling! :)

End of Day 3

2011-01-22T21:39:00.004+09:00

So tomorrow is DAY 4!!!

OMG, tonight i had the Most Awesome Dinner!!!

Grilled Tilapia with Parmesan Mushrooms, Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Cauliflower "rice".

It was Sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo good.

If all meals were like tonight's???? I would not care about "carbs" or "sugar"!

Anyways, I am having fun thinking about new ways to cook foods and new ways to get in veggies.

Evan LOVED the Mushrooms (that were dipped in Egg and then in Parm and baked until Crispy). He was begg'n for more. NO!!! I wanted them all. haha.

So today i got in my Exercise! YAY!!! And ... my water too. And... Green Tea!!! I did miss one serving of Probiotics (Yogurt) but that's ok.

This afternoon, Coleen and I took the babies and my 2 older ones and we walked to the Co-Op off base. It's a SMALL Japanese store with the basics. We got our veggies and some Strawberries. I also bought some cabbage for the soup i want to make tomorrow. Yum. It was a 1 hour walk. A nice cool day with clear sky's. I REALLY enjoyed it, Ava (and the other 2) did too.

I think I'll be walking like that daily... for a few weeks. Very nice Very Nice!!!

Hello Day 3

2011-01-22T11:11:00.002+09:00

So Hello Day 3.
Let me Vent it all out here, OK? I cant right... this is the point. A Place to let it all out and get fresh.
Last night i was SO hungry around 930 pm. I made some green tea and took the laptop to bed with me. I really wanted something, but not exactly anything. I beat the monster and drank the tea and went to bed.
Today I have been good (its 11 am) and Ive decided that Food is not what it's all about. I have to push the water. So... i am. It Sucks. I don't love water at 1st. It takes some getting used it.
but, today my goal is to DRINK and workout 17 minutes!! PERIOD, no Excuses!

So, after 48 hours on this "diet" i have felt SOooooooooooooooooooo good! So much Energy and Focus! I feel 1000% "better".
The energy is amazing. LOVE IT!
So, my body is less bloated i feel and so i decided to step on the scale today. WHAT WAS I THINKING???? Yup, no change. But... i know i need to push the water and I will see results. I mean, I'm eating small portion's and NO Carbs and LOTS of Veggies.
It's gotta happen.
OK, so no midweek weigh in's! OK?!?!?! ALISA OK!?!?!?!?!?

Day 2...

2011-01-21T13:11:00.001+09:00

Has been good. I am Enjoying this new way of eating/thinking!!!
I had a few lady's over today and resisted the muffin's i made.
Then, tonight... i Actually DRUM ROLL........ BROWN BAGGED IT!
Ate my Yogurt and Apple on the go. WOW.
This one is big for me, as i usually swing through the drive thru for a meal while i am out and about.

Tonight, after our Girl Scout Cookie Booth (<~~~ yes.... i was good and did not eat one,) we went to Chili's.
I was also good at Chili's!!!!
A Grilled Fish and Salad no cheese/croutons and lite dressing (put on very lite) and Broccoli. Unsweet Tea!
I REALLLY wanted everything else... everything with Bread. But, i feel very satisfied with what i ate. :)
So, Day 2 was a food success.
Still having problem's fitting in the working out.
And the water.... but i am going to push it tonight, before bed.
Ok... Day 3.... Right around the corner! :)

End of Day 1....

2011-01-20T20:58:00.003+09:00

... has been a success!!!
Well a food success. I stuck to the "diet" and it was not a problem at all! Actually, i felt full... most all day.
For this eating plan, i get 2 servings of fruit and i had to skip one of them, because i could not eat anymore. Also, the drinking of liquid is soooo much. So, that helps.

Tonight i need to finish up the water intake, about 15oz and another cup of Green tea. WOW

One thing i Failed at is the workout. I honestly forgot about the workout. I planned it out, but ... the time slipped away and next thing i knew it was Dinner time/Bed time.
So, ... tomorrow i will need to workout during Ava's nap, period.

So ........ i think i might need stock in Gas X... hahahaha. With all these veggies and eggs, WOW... um Wow. LOL

So........ !!!!!!!!

2011-01-20T09:40:00.003+09:00

I Weighed in!!!!
And, i was pleasantly surprised!!! I was brave ya'll!
So, i have a goal weight - (1st goal) - loss of 25 pounds.
It's Achievable people!!!! And, if i do this, i will weight Less than i have in at LEAST 10 years.

So, This morning i stuck to the plan, with No issues.
I did keep the one cup of coffee, which is allowed.
The only thing that is not allowed is Milk or Sugar! :(
I did allow this ONE thing, Sugar Free Non Dairy Creamer.
That's my ONE give.
So, i am happy with the day so far.
I'm not hungry and feeling energetic and not shaky.

I'm even pushing the water.
I need 64 oz a day, says the book. That does not include the coffee or 3 cups of Green Tea Daily, that's also required.

We will see what Dinner and After dinner hold, my Weakness!!!!

So, im already freaking out, LMAO

2011-01-19T11:29:00.001+09:00

About the Food shopping/cooking/Controlling myself around ..........

CARBS.

The 1st phase of this eliminates White Everything.

Yes, this diet is Racist!

No White pasta, bread, rice............

I can do this for 17 days, right? It's only 17 days of my life.... then i can have Brown Rice, bread and Potatoes. But.... i have to get through this phase 1st.
UGH!
It's going to be so hard, especially while cooking these items for my family.

I'm shouting it from the Roof-tops....

2011-01-19T11:16:00.004+09:00

I'M GOING on a DIET!
Yes, after ... maybe 3~4 years i am going to DIET.
Diet sounds like such a Negative word, but what else do i say? "Life change?"
I don't care what you call it... i am stepping into something new.
Honestly, i don't have a problem with my body.
It's what i was given.
I have been "big" my entire Adult life.

This diet is all about getting healthy and taking off extra weight my body has to carry around. I am tired of carrying around extra. I'm sure my insides are tired of working hard at it too.

I love the curves of my body.... i am not trying to be a -stick thin wafer-. I am just trying to be a better ME ~~~> For my ME, My Hubby and my KIDS.
PERIOD... end of story.

So, i am going to use our family blog to Vent my journey... write about the good and bad and hard times.
It's not going to be easy.
So, i am going to start with the big weigh in tomorrow. I wont share my #, but i will share my LOSS and or Gain.
I will be honest, because this is for me.... and I'm not going to lie to myself. LOL

I think i might Measure myself too. Ive done the measuring thing before, with my friend Kitty. That was the last time i tried to loose weight, with her.
It was fun, i had a partner.
So, If you want to be included in this journey via e-mail... let me know.

Whats the Plan?
The book "17 Day Diet".
It's not a 17 day diet, where i will loose all the weight i want in 17 whole days, lol.
No.
It's a 17 day Diet Cycle that's broken up into 4 Phases.... and i can do phases 1~3 in order until i loose the weight i need. So, i may need to repeat these phases Over and Over until i get the result's i need/want. Who knows!
Phase #4 is the Maintain Phase and this is where i will live & eat normal.
The 1st 3 Phases will Eliminate PROCESSED Foods and Add LOTS of Fluid's to my body and TEACH me to eat for LIFE....
It's all about Healthy /Good/ NATURAL Foods.

I have been thinking about switching to Whole foods and trying to buy healthy for some time now. So this should not be SUCH a shock.... but it will be hard.

So, Encourage me, if you like.
Listen, or don't....
I'll be here .... writing it alllllllllllllllllll down.

Blog Emails to those who get them.

2011-01-14T18:05:00.001+09:00

I'm going to be STOPPING them for a time.
Honestly, i don't want to clutter your inbox with lots of entries.
I am getting ready to start a *new life challenge* and I'll be blogging daily(as a way to Vent). So, ... there it is. :)

Ava is a Walker!!!

2011-01-14T18:00:00.002+09:00

I don't have Photo or Video yet, but she stood up in the center of the living room, alone and took 4 steps! WHOA Ava!!!

10 months and 3 weeks old.

Happy New Year its 2011~!!

2011-01-01T21:24:00.003+09:00

As part of my New Year Resolution ... yes, im going to try one (or a few) this year... I want to Keep in touch with the people who mean so much to me. (You know who you are.)

So, i am going to try to keep up with this blog regularly. :)

Today we got out into Japan and visited a shrine for the new year.

We had a great time as a family.
We walked / ate and enjoyed each other's company.

~>Ava just had a little lick :)

This year we had Ryan and little Willa along. The kids enjoyed having a friend come along. And, Ethan and I enjoyed Ryan's company. Enjoy this little snapshot of today.

Tomorrow is New Years Eve...

2010-12-30T22:18:00.002+09:00

This snowman is Japanese style. Japanese snowman is two ball. This snowman put "Kagami-mochi" (round rice cakes offered to the gods at New Year's) on his head. :D And this kanji "福" meaning is happiness and good luck.

Us?
We will be at home.
Doing?
Cleaning for the New Year, then bringing the New Year in... hopefully in a relaxing way.
We (as in All 5 of us) will be together.

If i don't see y'all before then. Happy New Year!!!

It's been 3 months?

2010-12-30T10:01:00.003+09:00

I have been SUCH a slacker when it comes to this website.... Mostly because of Facebook. Can i blame facebook? I will. It's so easy to upload and share.

I <3>

We have been staying busy and getting out. --->

Lets catch up.

In October Daddy took a new job. So, we will be in Japan for 22 extra months.

In November we moved into a 4 bedroom house. AND Olivia turned 9... yes 9. WOW

Of course in December we celebrated Christmas and Daddy took 2 weeks of Vacation.

With the New Year is on top of us; Ethan and I will celebrate our 13 year anniversary and his 34th birthday. :O!

Evan will turn 6 just after 2011 starts up and Ava will be ONE in just 2 months.

So, with this fresh new year I have some "resolutions". I never do 'that'.... but this year i will try my hand at changing a few things.

Next time i visit... maybe I'll talk about that.....

A few of AVA

2010-10-01T11:29:00.002+09:00

ok, maybe more than a "FEW"... lol
this is pretty much "Aug. Photos"...

Back Yard Fun!

2010-10-01T11:21:00.002+09:00

We (as i have said before) moved the pool into the back yard. It was SUCH a Great decision and the kids just had a TOTAL blast. :)
Pictures ~>

Front yard fun

2010-10-01T11:15:00.002+09:00

All summer we had such fun with our friends and front yard. This is just a few photo's, but we pretty much spent Every weekend BBQ'ing and having a blast.
We are so blessed and i am thankful.
Check out the pictures!

The pool!

2010-10-01T11:13:00.001+09:00

We put the pool in the front yard for a Fun Saturday BBQ.
It was so fun we moved it into the back yard for the rest of summer. We just put it away, Sept 20th or so. :)

Um, 2 months, WOW!

2010-10-01T10:30:00.004+09:00

How have i not logged in/blogged in 2 whole months? This is crazy to me. It's been such a crazy busy long summer. In the 2 + years i have had this blog, i have never gone this long.
I am going to try and recap the summer in a few short photo's and such. I hope hope hope to be back on the blog-wagon now and getting into a groove.

A Bit from Today...

2010-08-01T23:07:00.004+09:00

Today we had a small get together with our neighbor's, Coleen & Ryan.
We have realllly enjoyed our front yard this year, and have taken full advantage of it. :)
Please enjoy the pictures of the kids/our yard/the fire pit/and just us having fun this summer! :)
our front yard.

she is sitting so well!!

mmmm!!!

getting kisses

trying my 1st real food...

yummy!!

JUMBO Marshmallows

Ryan and Evan

Daddy...

Olivia, funny girl

cookie meditation

Alcaraz ER Tokyo Japan

2010-08-01T11:09:00.000+09:00

Around August 1st we went to Alcatraz ER Theme Restaurant with some friends. It's in Shibuya Tokyo. We had a very fun time ... :)
This is just a snap shot of our visit. :)

Sitting!!

2010-07-27T09:30:00.003+09:00

Ava is perfecting this sitting thing. :)

She cut it, for Locks of Love

2010-07-23T22:54:00.001+09:00

What have we been up to?

2010-07-23T21:47:00.003+09:00

nothing much, beyond hanging out in the front yard and having dinner outdoors.
the kids are enjoying the good ole 5$ sprinkler, ...
its 2 hot to do anything really. we usually come out around 3ish.
good times

Ava turns 5 months!

2010-07-23T21:42:00.003+09:00

Whats been going on with Ava?

This month she has learned how to roll over. :) She can roll both ways, but is a pro at rolling from back to belly. Also, she is enjoying her Tummy time more and more each day.
Just in the last week or 2 she has started to sit up very well, with quite a bit of roll downs (falls). But, she is getting better and better each day.
We have started Eating Solids. :) Every night before bed, about 5/6pm we have a bit of veggie/fruit and some cereal mixed in. She can take down a few tablespoons, that's it. She enjoys it.
We also, just today ... started to learn about/try a Sippy cup!! She can do it, and we are happy, as it's HOT here and we need that option for water/cold liquids when out and about.

Ava is moving right along development wise IMO (in my opinion) because she has a 8 yr old sister and a 5 yr old brother who play with her like she is a real "baby alive" and i let them (under supervision).
I believe the reason Ava is sitting already and has much amazing hand/finger control is because of the Older Siblings. They love playing with her :).
Don't get me wrong, i play with Ava... but i think the influence of the older children has a GREAT advantage.
Even yesterday, Ava was in her 'saucer outside in the front yard watching the kids in the sprinkler, Squealing and wanting to join, @ 5 months.
I could see her wanting to 'play' too. :)
I am thankful for such Wonderful/Beautiful Children! :)

Family Picture 2010

2010-07-20T20:13:00.002+09:00

Well, it's been 7 years? Yup,... we have not even attempted a professional photo.
I saw this company in the NEX, it looked "cheap" but i thought, what the hell.
I had recently ordered our Old Navy 4th of July attire, and i thought... that would be cute, with Jeans!
So, i payed the 20$ and signed us up.
To my BIG Surprise, the photo's actually came out just as i would have liked..... Natural. This was my goal. I did not wear make up ... we did not 'dress up'... we were, just ourselves.
I was 4 sure that the family pictures would be a bust... but they were OK.
So, we bought the package.
The photo's of Olivia and Evan were for "school" pictures, as they both misses pictures this year due to Ava being born on a Sunday and the kids skipped school while Mommy was in the hospital.
Anyways, ... here they are.

Kawasaki Dashi Temple

2010-07-18T08:27:00.005+09:00

Yesterday we (Kath & Tim + us) took the train to Kawasaki Japan. We wanted to check out the Kawasaki dashi Temple, and the Wind Chime bazzar.
It was hot, but fun.
Our Adventure is below in slideshow form.
It's not many pictures, check them out.
It's a beautiful Temple, simular to Asasuka's
The Wind chime bazzar was OK, but we did enjoy all the food booth's & siteseeing.
Good times, with Good friends!

~> Slideshow link <~

Kawasaki Daishi (川崎大師), is the informal name of Heiken-ji (平間寺) in Kawasaki, Japan. Founded in 1128, it is the headquarters of the Chizan sect of Shingon Buddhism. Kawasaki Daishi is a popular temple for Hatsumōde (the first visit to a place of worship in the new year).
In 2006, 2.72 million people engaged in hatsumōde here, the third largest figure in Japan and the largest in Kanagawa Prefecture.
Keihin Electric Express Railway(or better known as Keiku), the oldest railroad company in the Kantō region of Japan, commenced service in January 1899 to carry passengers to Kawasaki Daishi from Tokyo.

A GNO (girls night out)...

2010-07-12T07:50:00.003+09:00

So, a few weeks ago Tammy (a good friend of mine, pictured here, in the middle) and a few of her friends went for a Girls Night Out/Going away dinner.
We decided on El'Torito's Yokohama.
Here are a few photo's from that night.
It's mostly of food... 'cause i love photo's of food. haha.
Enjoy!!!
We got the "course set" and they just kept bringing the food.

We miss you Tammy!!!!!

Our 1st Margarita

The yummiest salad.

I cant believe i LOVED the Salmon~RAW!

mmmmmm!!!
(there was other food, not pictures here)

Tammy & Jerry

2nd Margarita

Flaming Dessert.

Yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmy!

The Ōfuna Kannon

2010-07-10T21:17:00.003+09:00

Today we invited a few friends to come along,... while we searched out the
"Ōfuna Kannon".
It was kind of last minute, but it turned out to be fun!
Lucky us, a Beautiful day to boot!
Here is the link to learn more about this Buddist Temple.
--->HERE<---

Ava Overload 18 weeks (ish)

2010-07-06T11:37:00.003+09:00

4th of July

2010-07-06T10:52:00.002+09:00

Happy 4th of July from Zushi Japan.
It was a HOT/HUMID day 100%.
We had a nice low key BBQ/potluck with our good neighbor's Coleen & Ryan, Kathleen & Tim, Plus 5 random Sailors.

The kids played in the slip n slide all day, we BBQ'd lots of food & just vegg'd.

After the sun went down we did the fire pit and that was pretty much it.
Fireworks are a no go, on base.
And, we did not go to the water front (30 min's away) to watch the Base's Display, although they do put on a nice show.
We had such a relaxing evening... just the adults sitting around the firepit.
Enjoy the slide show!

Slide show here <---

Ava's 4 and a half months already!

2010-07-01T13:54:00.002+09:00

And, learning to Sit Up! .................
Timmmmmmmmber ~> as she falls over.

Blog E-Mails

2010-07-01T13:23:00.002+09:00

I have revamped my Blog e-mail list.
If your receiving this for the 1st time, Welcome, LOL

If you wish to NOT receive these e-mails, please respond/email me! ;-)
Thanks!!
It's All good. ;)

Evan Graduates!

2010-07-01T12:52:00.003+09:00

Evan Graduated the Yokosuka Co-Op Pre-K program a few weeks back.
He worked really hard, and did a fab job!!
Unfortunately, the Co-Op was forced into Closure This Year, After over 40 years.
It was more like a Legal Issue about fire codes and the fact the government would not allow the Co-Op repair the building (due to it being a "gift" to the Government... and they cant accept "gifts"....).
The Government wont repair the fire violation... so, it was forced into closure.

Besides that, We had a wonderful year... and We were super blessed to have to Co-Op as a resource.
I wish it could be around for more families, especially when Childcare/Preschool here in Yokosuka Japan is in a Major Struggle.

That Night, White-Water Rafting & Going Home

2010-06-29T10:32:00.002+09:00

After we Canyoned... we got all dressed and headed out on the little town.
There was not much to see or do, other than the river, and a small main street.
We were dropped off, and walked most of the way.
It was a beautiful riverside walk.
We ended up eating at a small, but new place... with no English. We had fun with it, and ended up eating REALLY well.

After the Dinner, we headed back to the lodge for a little 70~80's DISCO night.
Nope... not gonna post many pic's from that Crazy Night.

slideshow of that night ---> here<--- (8 pictures)

The next day we all woke up, hung over or not... and got ready for our White Water Rafting trip. Lets just say, it's a Hang-over cure!!! :) SOOOooo fun!
We ran the most beautiful part of the course, our guide told us.
She said... that "run" is usually only open for a few times a year... and we were lucky.
It was beyond words!!!

Slide show of WWRafting HERE<----

After WWRafting we got Cleaned up, Packed up and Headed back to the Train Station. Before we left Minakami for good, we stopped for a bite to eat.
It was a cute little outdoor place, So Quaint... So Delish!
We enjoyed a few more moments, and then started our journey home.
We took the Local JR all the way home.
It was Long, but worth it in the end.
For some reason, our tickets did not work correctly upon Exit at JR Zushi, and we were told to "dozo"... or "go ahead".... NO WAY!!!!
That was a Free (or close to it).. from Minakami ~ Zushi!!! about a 40$ Value! PER Person.
We were Blessed!!!

slideshow of the last few pictures from our trip ---> Here

I hope you enjoyed the slides show's and pictures about our trip to Canyon's.

Random Pictures of June

2010-06-28T11:21:00.006+09:00

Im going to start and end with Ava. :)
She is growing so fast!!

Ombudsmen park.

Friends Forever (most of these kids PCS'd this summer. :( )

Evan loves Ava!

Girls Weekend in Minakami Japan

Evan heads to Kinder this year, WOW.

Ava, 4 months

Olivia, 8 yrs.

Yunessun Spa, Hakone Japan
(With WONDERFUL friends, who moved already :-( )

A treat in Yokosuka

Girl Scout end of year Camp Fire.

Truely Random

Tyler, Graduate 2010
(Tammy's Son. She asked me to do some photo's. They turned out nice.)

Ava, ... :) Today June 28th 2010

Yunessun Spa

2010-06-20T20:25:00.003+09:00

Yesterday we went to a Spa in Hakone Japan, with our good friends who are about to move. :-(
We enjoyed our day together...
I cant wait to go back, as i felt like we just got started, when it was time to pack up and leave.

This is a Popular Spa Area, Hakone.
We visited a Very popular "themed" spa.
Please Click --->For the slide show, Click Here <---- , if you get this via e-mail.
I took some neat pic's, PLEASE ENJOY!!!

Enoshima Aquarium

2010-06-17T12:38:00.003+09:00

... was Olivia's last 2nd grade field trip.
Ethan is still playing "Dad of the Year" and he took the day off so he could watch Evan and Ava.

I really enjoyed going on my One Field Trip this year. :-)
Please enjoy the slideshow of "Enoshima Aquarium" <-----click.
Enoshima Aquarium is not actually On Enoshima Island.
We go to Enoshima Island pretty much as much as we can. :) So pretty.

Zushi to Minakami

2010-06-09T10:23:00.006+09:00

I am going to add a Few Post's to our 'Trip to Canyons'.

It would be a LONG slide show if i did it all at once.

Let me set the stage and say this was a Girls Weekend!! We had such a fun time, i cant wait to go again!!! We left EARLY Saturday morning and Returned LATE Sunday night. We took the Local JR lines and the Shinkansen... one way 6400Yen or about 64$. It was a 3~4 hour trip... SO worth it!!!

Canyon's Website is located HERE<--- if you wanna check it out for yourself.

We did the 1/2 day Canyoning and 1/2 day Rafting AND Stayed at thier "lodge"(VERY "homey and OLD Japanese style!) and one meal was included for 18,000Yen or 180$.

Both were SO FUN!!

The hardest part was getting on the wet suit (for any size, ~ as we saw a TINY Japanese lady having such a hard time as well...) LOL. We ALL Laughed together.

It was a GREAT multicultural experience! From American's to Japanese to New Zealnader's!

This slideshow includes some pictures like the Title Says... from home~to destination... more photo's to come, so stay tuned!

If you recieve this via e-mail, Click --->here<--- for the slideshow

Arrival & Canyoning

2010-06-08T00:15:00.000+09:00

Ok, so this post is from Arrival at the lodge through our Canyoning adventure.
Our tour was about 3 hours long, and was VERY adventureous!
I reccomend this to anyone looking for a thrill! :):)
After our tour... we went out into the small town for dinner and some photo's before hitting up the 70's Dance Party at th lodge. LMAO!.... so look for those pictures in the next post.
------------------> onto the tour................
See the Yellow Vest on the Far Left side? Yup!!! Thats a person sliding down this waterfall!
WE did this!!!!!
Check out the Slideshow for More awesome pictures.

For those of you whoe recieve this via e-mail.... click below.
--->slide show<---

Zushi Beach for Memorial Day

2010-06-03T10:22:00.002+09:00

We went to Zushi Beach for Memorial Day.
It was cold, but not 2 cold.
We had a FUN time!!

Zushi Beach Slide Show<---- Link

Thanks Everyone!!!

2010-06-03T10:10:00.002+09:00

For the Plant Info!!! :)
I had no idea, haha.
I hope i can keep it alive.

Anyone know...

2010-06-01T12:28:00.002+09:00

What type of plant this is?.... Maybe how to care for it?...

I bought it off base, and ... i know it's an indoor plant, thats about it.

I repotted it ...

Anyways, i would love to know how/when/how much to water and so on.

Thanks!! :)

Cute Japanese Book

2010-06-01T09:24:00.003+09:00

Cute Japanese Potty Book (for you Kath!)
If you get this via E-mail, click here --->X<---

For Aunt Jackie...

2010-05-31T09:44:00.003+09:00

I think her eyes are staying blue...

You can really see the Blue VS brown diffrence here.

14 weeks~Ava~!!

2010-05-31T08:49:00.001+09:00

Ava is 14 weeks (3.5 months?) and just adorable!

My Crazy Obsession with...

2010-05-26T22:20:00.003+09:00

Pillow's. Not just any pillow... the ones with therapeutic ball's on the inside.
You know, the ones you cant stop squishing between your fingers? Yup~!
Ive had a set of pillows for um... 8 years? I bought them in Sasebo... Love'um!
Cant seam to buy any other kind. Well... it's time for some couch pillow's and i could not buy just any decorative pillow, they HAD to be ball filled. LOL!!!
Well... could not find any... so i bought the Ball's in Bulk, and Filled my Own Pillow Shams!!! (Well, Ethan helped).

The bags of ball's were about 7$ a piece.
And, the sham's about 10$ a piece.

Point being, .... Wait it out, Buy what you Love and Don't have a problem paying for it!!
Because? ...24$ for balls and 40$ for shams... Might last me another 8 years.... or more........... Cheaper in the Long run! :)

I'm in looooooooooooooove!

Thanks D2!!! & Tammy~

Sophie The Giraffe

2010-05-26T22:18:00.005+09:00

What do i say? I 100% LOVE Japanese Products, but this one is from France.
I gotta give it what it deserves...... a Blog Post!
WE LOVE Sophie!!!!!!!
I ordered her online, and she is Amazing.
She has been around for YEARS in Europe, and ... I'm in Love, so is Ava. :-)

Check it Out! <---- LINK

SuSu

2010-05-26T22:18:00.003+09:00

I went with a friend to D2 today, a home Store off of 134.
I found and bought some Susu / type items!! :)
One is a mat, and the other 4 are hand towels, but not jjust your standard ones.
they snap on the towel bar, so ... no more towels on the floor. YAY!!!!
SuSu Towels/Items are SO Absorbent... :0)
Love um! Try Um!

of course, had to get all 4 colors!

Random...

2010-05-26T21:16:00.002+09:00

Evan....?

Chilax'n!

2010-05-26T21:12:00.002+09:00

Ava, 13 weeks :-)

"Big Size"

2010-05-26T21:02:00.003+09:00

These 'Big Size' Badminton Set is Funny... but Evan's 'Big Size' Smile is Funnier... to me. LMAO!

Flowers~~

2010-05-26T20:59:00.002+09:00

Reciently Ethan and I went with the kids and bought some Flowers.

I really love the way our front area feels now. :) I hope i can keep them alive!! :)

It's Evan's Turn!!!

2010-05-26T20:55:00.002+09:00

He learned to ride his bike w/ out trainers! :) Took, 2 days... and now he is goin goin goin!!! ;-)

(honestly though, he was 'made fun of' by a boy in our neighborhood and ... i think that motivated him INSTANTLY...Good for Him!!)

~laugh~

2010-05-26T20:53:00.000+09:00

I did.... LOL

Big (and small) News!!!!

2010-05-20T08:40:00.005+09:00

I'll start with the Small News.
Ava is 12 weeks!!!!
She will be '3' months tomorrow, the 21st. (she was 12 weeks on Sunday.)
She is growing so fast, and I'm lov'n it! She smiles, coo's and had her 1st laugh/giggle this week.
She has only tried to roll over a few times... maybe in the next 2 weeks?

The Big News is after waiting for what seams like forever to move into a 4 bedroom on Yokosuka Main Base.... We FINALLY got called yesterday!!!!! (an END unit... with a covered patio and Lots of Privacy!!)

The big news is we DENIED IT! After much thought, and discussion's with Ethan we could not see moving from our great neighborhood, GREAT SCHOOL and Awesome front and back yards. But, honestly it was the school that sealed the deal for us. We just love Mr. Finlay the principle. He is amazing, and i don't wanna risk loosing a good thing.

YAY.... finny thing is, we don't feel 'let down' we actually feel relieved and excited for the 2nd half of our tour.

Ethan and i spoke about it, and were on the hunt for an indoor/outdoor rug and some other things to help our next 18 months in this house more enjoyable. Kinda like, extending the indoors~outdoors. YAY!!!!!!

So.... that's the news!

need i say more.........

2010-05-13T17:20:00.004+09:00

she's got my ipod!

Thank You...

2010-05-06T08:53:00.003+09:00

Aunt Jackie and Grandmama!!!!!

Ava LOVES her new Bumbo seat! Ava is so blessed by the both of you.... :-)

Ava Juliette 10 weeks!

2010-05-01T20:59:00.000+09:00

Ava turns 10 weeks in just a few hours.
Today i took a few shot's of her just hanging with Mom.
I hope you enjoy!! :)

I love Close-up's!
I usually take a picture of each feature, around this age.
With Evan i did, and i love looking at all his little features. :)

Meals...

2010-04-22T10:00:00.001+09:00

I need to mix my dinner idea's up a bit.
After having Ava, we have pretty much had dinner at home 99% of the days (for 2 months now!).
This is unusual for us, as we love to eat out often.
Anyways, with the new baby, it's not ideal to go out so often.
So,... Msg me/or Reply to this E-mail with your favorite "quick fixes" or "under 30 minute" meal idea (s) please! (no detail's needed, just ideas. :-))
I need a Spring Cleaning, in the Dinner Department! :-)

Spring Break 2010

2010-04-20T10:15:00.002+09:00

Was pretty low key. It rained and was so cold for 85% of spring break. So, we stayed home most of the days.
We did go to Livin (Walmart) one day, and i let the kids pick out a few trinkets, and try some Japanese treats.
We also Went Bowling w/ dinner one night.
Movie's at home, and ONE day of playing outside (b/c of Rain)... about sum's up Spring Break.
The kids of course played in their rooms, and had a nice break.
Enjoy the slide show! <--- click there, if you get this via e-mail. :)

Ava Turn's 2 Months

2010-04-20T09:05:00.001+09:00

And, she smiles for the camera! ;-)

For Aunt Jackie...

2010-04-14T11:55:00.001+09:00

I tried the french braid like u suggested! Looks Great....
(I'm not that good @ it though....)

Evan get's a New Haircut!

2010-04-14T11:02:00.003+09:00

We finally took the plunge and cut off All Evan's hair for the spring/summer!
He loves it... i miss the "tons of hair look"...
What do you think?

Japanese Procuct's (Food) Slideshow!

2010-04-12T12:47:00.003+09:00

We do some of our shopping off base. Most of the time, it's for Veggies and Fruits. Sometimes though we do try some new things and try to figure out the direction's (In Japanese) and it's always fun/adventure!
Please enjoy this slide show of the extra items i bought while i was at the local store for some Green Peppers. ;) ha
The link to the slide show, for those who get this via e-mail.

I love Japan~!

2010-04-10T20:29:00.006+09:00

There is a lot i love about Japan... but this has to be top on my list.
In all the department stores i have ever been in, all over Japan, they all have something in common ---> A baby room. (Loved this when Olivia was a baby too, in Sasebo)
These rooms have a few changing areas, a nursing area (private), a vending machine with drinks, a Weight/Measuring area, a Sink and a Hot water heater (for bottles). Also, they have Diaper disposal cans.
I just have to say how nice it is to have a place that is clean (for the most part) and private and NOT a Bathroom to change/feed my baby on the go/shopping.

Now, while "out and about" site seeing it's VERY hard to find a Changing area or Toilet for that matter... but this is so nice when shopping for goods off base. :)
Enjoy the pictures.

:-)

2010-04-08T20:22:00.000+09:00

Thursday was Such a Pretty Day, so much so that Evan, Ava and I walked to get Olivia from school. Ava seams to really like her stroller. :) YAY!

Look Who's...

2010-04-07T15:33:00.002+09:00

Hair is Getting SO LONG!

And... NOPE she does not want to cut it...!!!!

I am so pleased. She is also getting into taking care of her hair.

(Mom, i thought you would really enjoy seeing her hair... as i always wanted to chop mine. I am So Glad she wants to keep in long, for now.)

Sakura Viewing @ Kamakura

2010-04-05T14:12:00.003+09:00

This past Saturday the family headed out to Kamakura. We wanted to view the Sakura, or Cherry Blossom's before the wind and rain took them away. The weather has not been ideal for any sort of outdoor activities, but Saturday afternoon the sun decided to come out, for a few hours.
Please enjoy this slide show of the Afternoon.
We took the train (2nd time for Ava), we Viewed the Tree's and checked out Hachiman Shrine & ate goodies from food stands & then had Ice cream!
(Green tea and Sweet Potato flavored. I had Baked sweet potato and it was SO Tasty!)
Here is the link to the Slideshow if you get this blog via e-mail
----->LINK<------

Ava turns 6 weeks old...

2010-04-05T13:59:00.002+09:00

... on Easter! ;)
These photos were taken in the last few days, and the "Easter" one taken on Sunday. :)

Olivia get's a Suica Card!

2010-04-05T10:05:00.004+09:00

We have been meaning to get Olivia a Suica Train card for Over a year now.

It's just, we HAVE to bring her passport to get her a card with her Name engraved on it, and to get the Auto Child Fare.

Anyways, this weekend we made it to the JR line, and remembered her passport and ... she Finally got it! No more Train tickets! :):) She was beyond Excited.

Thank You!

2010-03-31T10:50:00.002+09:00

We, in the last few weeks have received a few boxes from family and friends.
You all have no idea what it does for the kids,... and their frame of mind.
We are truly thankful!!!!!
Unfortunately i did not have the camera ready, or a hand available for use when opening the other boxes ... but here are the 2 pictures i did happen to catch.
Thank you to Jasmine, Meemaw and Mommy for the boxes!
Jasimine, Olivia LOVEs the clothing and Evan the Toy and Ava looks adorable in her outfit! I will take a pic and send it to you soon.
Meemaw, of course the clothing is Always appreciated!!! And the kids look adorable! :)
Mommy, Thank you so much for the clothing and the Goodies (Easter) ... They are enjoying them... and are thankful.
:-) Again... It's so nice of you to think if us~~~!!!
Thank you!!!

Sleep...

2010-03-31T10:45:00.003+09:00

Ava slept from 930 pm~ 430 am last night and woke for a 30 minute feeding and went back to sleep from 5 am ~ 720 am!!! :) She will be 6 weeks on Sunday.
I'm think'n ... that 6 week growth spurt is on the horizon.
I feel human today and there is light at the end of the Sleepless tunnel! :)

I love my Moby!!!!!

2010-03-28T15:50:00.003+09:00

I Love my Moby Wrap!
I got to try and buy one the other day and WOW! Ava Loves it.
As i sit here @ the desk... she is all cuddled in and sleeping so well.
I can actually get things done!
Yesterday i went to the commissary for 2 hours and shopped SO comfy and she was so happy.
Yay for Comfy Carriers!
If you click this link below... you'll be able to see all the diffrent ways to carry your baby/toddler in a Moby wrap.
The Moby Link<----

I will also attach a few pictures of Ava and I a few days ago. It was my 1st attempt at using my wrap. :-)

Ava overload for my Mom :-)

2010-03-28T15:37:00.002+09:00

Sakura (Cherry Blossoms)

2010-03-28T15:31:00.002+09:00

Are blooming early this year.
I realllly hope it warms up soon, so we can take Ava out to view some Sakura.
Fingers Crossed!!!

This is Very Near our house.

This one is on the "main base".

Daddy & Ava

2010-03-28T15:30:00.000+09:00

The Kids

2010-03-28T15:26:00.001+09:00

Smiles!!!

2010-03-28T15:25:00.001+09:00

Look who learned to...

2010-03-28T15:23:00.001+09:00

ride her bike!!!
(sorry for the double post)

This is for my Mom

2010-03-28T14:51:00.002+09:00

Just a hello

2010-03-16T08:15:00.004+09:00

Its been a while, and i am going to try and keep up with the things we have been up to, again.

We will see if i can!

We have not been up to much other than baby stuff for the last 3 weeks.

Ethan had been home on baby leave, but just went back to work this poast Monday.

The kids have been adjusting just fine to the new baby and the new routine, so far.

As far as Ava goes...

We went to her 1 week weight check up and she is doing well. She had already lost her cord, and overall everything was look'n good. :) She was 7 pounds 5 oz.

At her 2 week check up she was just about back at her birth weight, 7 pounds 12 oz (just 1 oz shy of 7lbs 13 oz).

Uesterday we went for a 3 week weight check up and WOW! She has really packed on the weight this week! She is 8 pounds and 11 oz!! :)

We're still fitting onlu Newborn Clothing, but we hope to fit into the Super Cute 0-3 3-6 clothing that was gifted to us. :)

Let's see, Were looking forward to Spring and Cherry Blossoms...

Also, we are #2 on the Housing list for a 4 bedroom @ the "big base".

Oh and yesterday i took Ava for her 1st train ride, just to pay a bill at a local train station. She rode in the Front pack carrier, and she enjoyed it!! I have a feeling we will be getting out and about soon enough, so look for that!!!

Thats it from here!

Baby Ava is here!

2010-03-04T16:05:00.002+09:00

Well, the day after my last Blog... i went into Labor!

Feb 21st @ 153 am Ava Juliette was born.

She was 7 pounds and 13 oz and 20.3 inches long.

It was a Quick 4 hour (start to finish) Delivery. :)

She is a good baby, but keeping be busy for sure.

Here is a Picture--->

40 weeks pregnant.... still pregnant!

2010-02-20T12:20:00.003+09:00