Bowling - January 2010

It was a cold day in Utsunomiya, so we decided to do something indoors. We thought we would give bowling a try. Chris did an excellent job speaking Japanese and filling out the forms in Japanese. I am so impressive with his Japanese language skills!!

This was Rylee second time to bowl and Avery's first time. It was a lot of fun!

These bowling slides are awesome!! The slide combined with the bumpers really helped the girls bowling game!

Big sis Rylee instructing Avery on her form and technique.....too funny!

Romantic Mula - January 2010

We discovered yet another great park in the Utsunomiya area, Romantic Mula park and botanical gardens. The weather has been chilly, but as long as the sun is shining the temperatures are tolerable. The girls had a blast checking out some of the new play ground equipment!

Avery loves to swing and has nearly mastered the girl swing all on her own.

It was nice and warm exploring the beautiful botanical gardens.

Circus - January 2010

The girls experienced the Circus for the first time in Japan. Rylee loved every minute of it! And it took Avery awhile to warm up to it. It of course was dark and loud, but after about 20 minutes the show dogs came out and Avery was in heaven. We went with our sensei Mioko. It was a fun day!

The umbrella balancing lady was my favorite, so impressive!

Stacie's 31st Birthday - December 2009

I had a wonderful 31st Birthday! It started with waking up to a beautiful arrangement of flowers from my dear friend Kerri and a delicious breakfast made by my sweet husband.

I received many kind birthday wishes, cards and gifts from my dear friends and family.

We went to my favorite Indian restaurant, Tajmahal, for lunch.

And finished the day with the most delicious cakes from our near by cake shop, Pumps.

31 is going to be awesome, I can feel it already.

Owarai Beach and Aquarium - 12/28/09

Despite our holiday travel plans being canceled we shared a wonderful holiday break. We were able to really relax, share quality family time and see several of the sights around Utusnomiya. We shared a fun filled day at the Owarai beach and aquarium.

The girls were eager to watch the dolphin show at the aquarium.

We experienced having the dead skin on our hands nibbled off by tiny fish. It really tickled!! Avery was too scared to try it, but after about 20 minutes Rylee worked up the courage to stick one finger in. It was a lot of fun!

The girls had so much fun, it made for a quiet drive home!