Leaving Los Angeles
Our visit to LA was filled with tons of family time. While I feel like I'm quite used to moving around - and the emotions surrounding leaving loved ones, Anthon had a harder time. Once he realized what it meant to leave for the airport for Tokyo, he broke down and cried because he wanted to stay with his Nana and Papa (my parents). Indeed Anthon had probably the best time of us all here in the States. He and his cousin Peter are just best buds. It makes Shelley and I sad to think that he'll be without that for a year.
But during our trip we accomplished a lot. As is the case with expats who come home for the summer, we loaded up on stuff to take back home with us that we can't get in Tokyo - I mean a lot of stuff...enough to take back 9 huge bags with us to Tokyo. Clothes, shoes, books, food, you name it.
It was great to see my 91 year old Grandma Ella take to our 3 months old baby Ella.
Other than that, we gorged ourselves on Mexican food (taco truck, La Cabanita and La Serenata) went to Dodger games, Hollywood Bowl, and even a few movies.
By the end we both felt like it was time to head back to Tokyo. Despite being away from family and many friends, our life is really there. I certainly was relieved to hear that from Shelley because when we first arrived in LA she was so happy that I didn't know if she would join me on the flight back!
Click on any of the pictures to see more of our trip.








