Home leave this summer was a whirlwind with time spent visiting the 50+ family members in Michigan (the girls couldn't believe how much family they had and didn't want to leave), followed by a 55-mile canoe trip down the Manistee River and a week in Puerto Vallarta staying at a fabulously upgraded 2-story timeshare overlooking the ocean.
Aunt Kiki entertained and spoiled the girls - taking them to a hair salon to get colored temporary highlights in, shopping to buy new clothes and outfits, and art supplies and toys. The girls were in heaven. Aunt Kiki and Nana also took them to paint potter which are now treasures in our house. Nana, Greg and Jeff made it to a Tigers game which was also a lot of fun. The girls also had a lot of fun going to the aquarium with Grandpa Roger and Susan and eating at Rainforest Café. They also were able to spend time with cousins - Aunts and Uncles - water bounce houses, water parks, scooter rides, what fun!
The YMCA canoe trip was also a hit and a good time to scout out the camp as there are other trips the girls can do when they are older. Bella instantly developed a crush on the cute 22 year-old boy leader - Charlie - who she swooned over. The other family was great - 2 girls a little older than us and the mom had lived in Japan and is an ironman triathlete.
From there we jetted to Mexico using plane tickets we had bought before leaving for Japan. We walked over the skybridge to the Tijuana airport which was easy. My parents Grandma Annie and Grandpa Richard joined us. Even though we've been to PV many times, we still did new things - turtle release, taking a boat ride to Las Animas beach, and the botanical garden. We also did our fav things - like clap at the sunset at Los Borros beach and spend a day in Sayulita.
In and our to LA we were also able to see Uncle John, Kaitlin and baby Caroline. The girls loved seeing their cousin on my side of the family. Morgan also was able to fit in a two day swim camp at UCSD - one entire day devoted to butterfly and another day for freestyle. I also celebrated my Dad's birthday at John and Kaitlin's place which was very fun and special. While in San Diego we quickly met up with friends, went to the race track and drafted our Fantasy Football team.
We are currently back in Japan and the girls are back in school. We really enjoyed seeing family and hope to visit again soon. Love you al - JeLiMoBe
