Christmas Morning!

Here are some fun pictures from our big day. The girls got a little spoiled because we bought their Christmas presents in Idaho but they hadn't yet arrived on December 23rd. So I had to do some last minute shopping at the NEX (Navy Department Store) for some backup gifts (in case the ones from Idaho didn't arrive the next day). Well, as luck would have it, the packages DID arrive the next day so we had lots of fun things for them to open. The "big hit" was Marissa's Talking Princess Vanity because it had a magic wand that opened drawers and princesses who appeared in the mirror. Kelea loved her walk-in kitchen but it was Marissa who had fun wearing the chef's hat and apron. Liana loved her activity cube but was more interested in cuddling with Mom since she was sick. We had a great time seeing their little faces light up and feeling like kids again. :)

Visiting Family in Idaho

Tokyo & Disneyland

Marissa's Kindergarten Christmas Program

Marissa had fun at her school's Christmas program. They sang cute holiday songs, danced a little and told a story. Marissa and her best friend Cathryn were chosen to play tamborines during a few songs and they actually kept with the beat. I was sad that Sean couldn't be there to see it (busy day at work). Enjoy the photos!

Petting Zoo & Pony Rides

Here are some cute pictures of Dad taking the girls to see the animals at a petting zoo. They actually brought them on base so it was easier for the kids to visit them up close instead of going to the one in Yokohama. The highlight for Kelea was riding the ponies (her first time) and for Marissa it was holding a hamster (which she wants as a pet). Mom stayed home with Liana to get some much needed organizing done. Enjoy the cute photos!

Halloween & Kindergarten Parade

Sean - Taiko Drumming

This is Sean's first performance with the Taiko drumming group he takes lessons with at our local Community Center.

Marissa Reading 1st Book

Sea Paradise - Yokohama

Here are some pictures of our day at "Sea Paradise". It's kind of like Sea World but on a smaller scale. They're known for their white dolphins and beautiful aquarium. The girls had fun on the kiddie rides too. If you scroll down to the bottom of this page you'll see Marissa posing with some "only in Japan" characters who greeted us at the park entrance wearing their costumes. They are the "Mentos" candy promoters (which the girls loved). Any park that hands out free candy as you approach is a hit with them.



You can see, we all had fun on the little train. I could barely get in the seat, but it was worth it to see Liana's sweet face light up with excitement! Kelea loved getting to hold this live starfish (but not before big sister showed her how.)