Right now, we’re about 40,000 ft above the Pacific Ocean, on our way to Osaka. I had imagined that before this trip, I would have researched the history of Osaka. Learned about the local architecture. Looked up the best restaurants for okonomiyaki. Found the best kid-friendly attractions. But it’s been a crazy week. Last Friday, they dropped off all our household goods at our new house (yay!). On Saturday, Duke and I were diagnosed with strep throat (boo!). On Sunday, Amelia came down with strep (boo!). On Monday, we checked out of the hotel (thank goodness we had the hotel for a few extra nights!). Our house is still buried in boxes, and I don’t know where anything is, but...Read More

After an early-ish start, we had an uneventful trip. We didn’t have quite as much time in Hawaii as we were hoping, but we managed to fit in a poke lunch and finding some leis for the kids. After another 7 1/2 hour flight, it’s starting to dawn on me exactly how far Guam is from San Francisco. We finally arrived at 7PM on Saturday. (Another reality that I’m finally beginning to actually understand - the 16 hour time change) After collapsing into bed, the kids were up at 4 AM. So we’re sitting in the room, waiting for the sun to rise. Waiting to see the outlines of our new life. So far, not a bad start.....