Feeling safe has a price

So, we are in the comfort of YaYa and PoPo's house, surrounded by nature, able to look out and see wild birds, palm trees, Copano Bay and everything grand, but somehow the view just isn't right.  It's not the view I'm used to, and it's not the view I've grown to love.  I already miss looking out my 5th story apartment building and seeing Tokyo, Japan. 

Don't get me wrong, being in Texas is great. We are safe here, away from aftershocks and radiation.  But we are missing something that means so much to us...Husband. 

Jude is having a great time and adjusting well.  He's no longer anxious, nervous or scared.  He has stopped freaking out at loud noises.  He no longer has baby breakdowns, where he cries for no reason.  Now, he seems calm and relaxed.  The sparkle in his eye has returned.  YaYa and PoPo are spoiling him beyond belief, and he's loving it. 

I'm also trying to adjust well.  But it's hard to be comfortable in someone else's home.  It's hard to relax when you don't know what lies ahead.  It's hard to relax when you don't know the next time you will be able to see your husband.  It's hard to relax when you don't know when you can return to your home or your life. 

So, we just sit here on hold.  Waiting.

South Texas is treating me good

Jude is happy again, and the fear he felt is gone.  It was blown away in the humid, Texas air while we were crabbing off the boat dock in PoPo's backyard. 

Who knew a few hours in Texas could take all your fears away. 

It has magical powers like that. 

Upon arriving in America

When our flight landed in Seattle, I was overcome with emotion. I was so relieved to be on the ground...a ground that doesn't shake all the time...a ground that will hopefully remain still...a ground that won't send me into a pannick...a stable, ground...a ground made of good, American soil!

But, at the same time, I had no idea what would happen next.  I didn't know where I was going, or where I was staying, or when I would be allowed to return to my home, or when I would be allowed to see my husband again.

So, I sat there on the plane and cried.  They were tears of relief, joy, and happiness, and tears of saddness. 

I left Japan on my own accord.  I left because I was given the option to evacuate, and I took it. 

I was determined to stay in Japan, in my apartment, with my husband as a family. 

But, on Monday, something changed. 

On Monday, I was talking to Jude, and he told me something that made me want to leave.

This was our conversation:

Weenie:  "Jude, how are you feeling?  Are you happy or sad?"

Jude:  "Mommy, I'm scared!"

Weenie:  "Why are you scared?"

Jude:  "I'm scared our house is going to fall on my head and kill me."

Weenie:  "Why do you think that?"

Jude:  "Because it keeps shaking, and it won't stop.  I'm scared!  I don't want to die!"

After that converstaion, I knew we had to leave.  I couldn't have my sweet, little boy worried about dying.  A 6 year old boy should never have to worry about dying.  Ever.  That's just not normal or natural. 

So, we left. 

We evacuated

We got a call in the middle of the night asking us if we were ready to leave, and we said yes. That was Tuesday night.

We flew from Japan to Seattle.  Stayed in Seattle 36 hours.  Then took a 7 AM flight to Houston.  Then another flight to South Texas. 

Let's just say it's been one hell of a week! 

Jude and I are safe in Texas, and that's all that matters!

If you know me, please give us some time to get on the right time zone before you contact us.  We are beyond exhausted!

Some of my favorite pictures of Japan

With all the news coverage about Japan and the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear reactor issues, all you see is death, destruction and sorrow.  Well, that's not the Japan I know.  The Japan I know is a beautiful place.  See for yourself:

Shubuya at night.  Photo taken November 2008.

The cherry blossoms near my house.  

The view from Mt. Mitake.  

Kyoto, Japan.  

Kyoto, Japan. 

Japanese bride, Tokyo, Japan. 

The fog on the way to Nagano, Japan.

A snow monkey taking a bath in Nagaon, Japan.  

These are some of my favorite pictures that I've taken while living in Japan.  This is the Japan I know and love.

This article has me shaking in my boots

You can read it here.

The US Military in Japan

On the choices I've made

Yesterday we went to our favorite sushi restaurant.  Thankfully, it was open and we pigged out.  

When I married Husband, over eight years ago, I knew I would be forced to make difficult decisions because of Husband's job.  I knew I would be taken to far off places and away from my family and friends.  I knew this when I said I do some 8 years ago.

And, by marrying Husband, my job, as his wife, is to support him.  I signed up for that job when I said I do. So, I'm ready to support my husband and his mission.  I ready and willing to do whatever it takes to support that mission.  That is my job.

And as long as I feel safe and happy and know that my air, food, and water are safe, I will remain at Husband's side.  That is my job.

I'm not trying to prove anything to anybody with the decisions I've made.  I'm trying to do what is right for my family.  And I stand by my decision to stay.

If the situation changes, and Husband feels we are in danger, or that he cannot remain focused on the mission because he is too worried about our safety, Jude and I will be on the first plane out.  But, until that happens, we will remain together as a family.  Because that's what we are.  We are a family that loves and supports one another during difficult times.  Even when things are difficult, like now, we will do whatever it takes to stay together...as a family.

I know some of you think I'm crazy, and that's fine.  Hell, you probably thought I was crazy before this, anyways.  But please know that I'm making the right decision for MY family.

My favorite animal

Friday, when were walking to the bus stop, Jude and a couple of the neighborhood kids were chatting.  This was their conversation:

Neighborhood kid #1:  "What's your favorite animal?  Mine's the crocodile because it has one of the strongest bites."

Neighborhood kid #2:  "Mine's is the chupacabra.  It's a blood sucking animal in Texas that's really freaky."

Jude:  "I like the vagina opossum."

Weenie:  "What do you like?"

Jude:  "The vagina opossum."

Weenie:  "The what?"

Jude:  "THE VAGINA OPOSSUM."

Weenie:  "What are you saying?"

Jude:  "THE VAGINA OPOSSUM!  You know, the opossum that poops out green gunk from its anus to scare away predators."

Weenie:  "Oh, you mean the Virginia Opossum."

Jude:  "That's what I said!"

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Exhausted

We just had another aftershock.  A 6.1 magnitude aftershock struck just as I pulled down my pants to take a piss.  So, I held it, pulled up my pants and ran to the living room to be with Jude.  Luckily, Husband is home, and Jude was already in Husband's arms by the time I ran into the living room.

The aftershock lasted about 20 seconds.

Here is the location of the aftershock:

So, for the past few days, we've been having large aftershocks at night.  Once they hit, I freak out for a few minutes, and my adrenaline starts pumping.  It takes me quite a while to settle down.  Therefore, I'm unable to sleep.  I think over the past 4 days, I've only slept about 4 hours a night, and I'm starting to feel the effects.  I'm exhausted and drained.

And, because the aftershocks have been happening at night, Jude is scared to sleep alone.  So, all three of us (Husband, Jude and I) have been sleeping in the same bed.  We feel less anxious and at ease by being together.  But, at the same time, it's not very comfortable.  We kick each other.  We smack each other with our elbows.  When someone farts, we all suffer...together.   But knowing that my baby and my husband are at my side makes me feel relaxed enough to sleep, even if it is for just a few hours.

It just hit me

This is what I see in my mind when I think of Japan.  

One week ago, my world was pretty much perfect.

Then, earthquakes.  Aftershocks.  Possible Nuclear Meltdown.

My world was shaken up, literally!  My little happy bubble filled with rainbows and pink ponies was busted!  Reality came crashing down on me.

And the realization that my world is changed forever just hit me.

I was too caught up in my own fear to realize the depth and extent of death and destruction that occurred last Friday.  I was too worried about protecting my own family and preparing for what might happen next that I neglected to see the pain and suffering of my gracious host nation.

But now that the fog has lifted, and I'm totally, utterly aware of the seriousness of the situation.  My Japanese friends are living day-to-day, without knowing what lies ahead.  Their families are scared and worried about running out of food.  They live in darkness because of rolling blackouts.  Schools are closed.  People are traumatized.

And, yet, somehow I missed all of that.

So, to you, my Japanese friends, let me tell you how sorry I am for your loss.  I'm so sorry for the uncertainty that lies ahead.  I'm so sorry for all the grief and sorrow you felt as you watched your countrymen perish in the tsunami.  I'm so sorry for only thinking of myself when y'all are the ones in need.

What to do?

Should we stay or should we go?

Reasons for staying:
1.  RADIATION LEVELS ARE STILL WITHIN A SAFE RANGE;
2.  to keep our family together;
3.  be comfortable in our place, as a family;
4.  because I ain't scared;
5.  because I have all necessary items to stay here, like food, water, flashlights, etc.
6.  because we are strong and resilient;
7.  because I love this place
8.  because I will be worried sick if I leave without Husband;
9.  as of right now, if we leave, we don't know where we're going;
10. because I could end up living in a tent somewhere, or a gymnasium or stuck somewhere;
11. I'm not ready to jump ship;
12. because I will be worried sick if I leave without Husband;
13. because I will be worried sick if I leave without Husband;
14. because I will be worried sick if I leave without Husband;
15. because I will be worried sick if I leave without Husband.

Reasons for leaving:
1.  it's possible that if we don't go now, we might not be able to go later;
2.  things could get much, much worse,
3.  the nuclear reactor could spew mass quantities of radiation, and I could be forced to stay indoors;
4.  MULTIPLE NUCLEAR REACTORS ARE ON THE FRITZ;
5. Husband might be too worried about us to focus on the mission;
6. Jude is young and growing, and if the radiation levels get dangerous, he's at risk;
7. because the State Department thinks it's a good to leave if you want to;
8. because I'll get a free flight to somewhere else (just don't know where);
9. because our friends and family are worried about us and want us to leave;
10. AFTERSHOCKS!!!!!!!
11. AFTERSHOCKS!!!!!!!

**** Just felt another large aftershock as I was writing this!  What the hell?!  Maybe that's God's way of saying get the fuck out of Tokyo!

FYI

Okay, it's 2:50 PM local time here, and I just read this article:

"WASHINGTON – The United States on Wednesday authorized the first evacuations of Americans out of Japan, taking a tougher stand on the deepening nuclear crisis and warning U.S. citizens to defer all non-essential travel to any part of the country as unpredictable weather and wind conditions risked spreading radioactive contamination.

President Barack Obama placed a telephone call to Prime Minister Naoto Kan to discuss Japan's efforts to recover from last week's devastating earthquake and tsunami, and the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima Dai-chi plant. Obama promised Kan that the U.S. would offer constant support for its close friend and ally, and "expressed his extraordinary admiration for the character and resolve of the Japanese people," the White House said.

But a hastily organized teleconference with officials from the State and Energy Departments underscored the administration's concerns. The travel warning extends to U.S. citizens already in the country and urges them to consider leaving. The authorized departure offers voluntary evacuation to family members and dependents of U.S. personnel in Tokyo, Yokohama and Nagoya and affects some 600 people.

Senior State Department official Patrick Kennedy said chartered planes will be brought in to help private American citizens wishing to leave. People face less risk in southern Japan, but changing weather and wind conditions could raise radiation levels elsewhere in the coming days, he said."

To read the full article, click here.  

A true best friend

This is from Yahoo News.



This is what's being said:

"We are in Arahama area. Looks like there is a dog. There is a dog. He looks tired and dirty. He must have been caught in the tsunami. He looks very dirty.

He has a collar. He must be someone's pet. He has a silver collar. He is shaking. He seems very afraid.

Oh, there is another dog. I wonder if he is dead.

Where?

Right there. There is another dog right next to the one sitting down. He is not moving. I wonder. I wonder if he is alright.

The dog is protecting him.

Yes. He is protecting the dog. That is why he did not want us to approach them. He was trying to keep us at bay.

I can't watch this. This is a very difficult to watch.

Oh. Look. He is moving. He is alive. I am so happy to see that he is alive.

Yes! Yes! He is alive.

He looks to be weakened. We need to them to be rescued soon. We really want them rescued soon.

Oh good. He's getting up.

It is amazing how they survived the tremendous earthquake and tsunami. It's just amazing that they survived through this all."

"UPDATE: CNN and the UK Telegraph have both reported that the dogs have been rescued since the footage aired, and are both receiving veterinary care; the more seriously wounded dog is at a clinic in the city of Mito, while the protective spaniel-type dog is receiving care at a shelter in the same town."

Staying put for now

While other nations are urging their citizens to flee Japan and the Tokyo area, the U.S. State Department has not done the same.  Instead, they have told us to follow the recommendations of the Japanese.  You can read more about that here.

Here, locally, things in our surrounding communities are getting worse.  Most stores are bare, and gasoline stations are out of fuel.  Some businesses are open, but without fuel, most are finding it difficult to go to work.

We had several large aftershocks again yesterday, and they scared the shit out of me, as usual!  

Thankfully, we are fine.  We have the resources we need.  We are very lucky!  Today, Jude is at school and Husband is at work.

We are still watching the amount of radiation in the air.  According to reports, the radiation levels are higher than normal, but not considered dangerous.

I have my bags packed, just in case we are told to leave.  But, as of right now (7:45 AM on Thursday), we are supposedly safe.

Again, I will continue to keep you updated on our situation.

The physicist

I think Michio Kaku, the physicist you've probably seen on TV, is hot.  He's the most passionate physicist I've ever seen on TV.  He gets very excited when he talks about his work, and I think that's hot!

But, as you know, I've got a thing for Asian men!

Conflicting reports

We are getting conflicting reports about the amount of radiation in the air.  And, this has me concerned.  I'm not sure who's telling the truth.

So, I am packing my bags and getting ready to leave, just in case.  I don't want to leave my home, but I will not risk the health of my child.

Things are getting worse and worse, and I have options.

So, you might be seeing me sooner than you think.

We are NOT currently being evacuated, but at some point we (Husband and I) will make a decision for what is best for our family.  And, if leaving is best, then we will do it.  Unfortunately, if we leave, Husband will be staying behind to continue with his work.  I want to keep my family together. But I may not have a choice.  

Shaken awake

So, I was sleeping so nicely and soundly when a rather large earthquake/aftershock woke my ass up at 10:34 PM.  When I opened my eyes, I knew exactly what was happening, because the bed was shaking and the mirror attached to my dresser was shaking loudly.  Luckily, Jude was in bed with me, and I covered him with pillows, just in case.  It was much shorter than the big one on Friday, but probably the strongest aftershock we've felt since.  Also, the epicenter was much, much closer than the ones before.

Here is a map of the epicenter courtesy of JMA:

My heart rate shot up and that fight or flight instinct kicked in again.  Husband came into the room as it was happening.  Just as soon as he stepped into the room, thankfully, everything stopped shaking.

I must admit I'm still startled and my anxiety levels are quite high.  I don't think I'll be going to bed for a while, so I decided to blog.

I know this useless blog is a good way for you to get updates on us, but writing about our situation seems to be good therapy for me.  And, it's a good way for me to chronicle what's going on for Jude.  Someday I'm sure he'll read this and fully understand why I am the way I am.

So, as I sit here writing, I just want to thank you for all of your love, support and concern.  I didn't realize how many people care about us!  It's heartwarming to know so many of you are thinking of us and concerned about our situation.

I am also updating often on Facebook.  So, if you know me, you know I have been keeping you up-to-date as information becomes available.  I will try to continue doing that, so you won't worry.

I know you are seeing all kinds of horrific images on the news, but we are far away from the devastation up North.  And, we are about 40 miles away from Tokyo Bay.  So, there is no need to worry about a tsunami impacting us.

However, we are watching the nuclear reactors.  Our air is being tested often, and currently it is safe.  If things change, I will let you know.

As a precaution, I did go out and buy several large rolls of Duct Tape.  If I have to shelter in place, I will be able to seal off all windows and vents from the outside.  I also have large plastic trash bags I can use to cover the windows and vents.  Thus, keeping our apartment free from radiation in the air.

So, again, I've taken a preemptive strike to protects us from what may lie ahead.  Remember, I am my father's child!

I have seen the news and am aware that several foreign companies are now evacuating their employees.  As of right now, there are NO indications that there is a need for us to evacuate.  If the need arises, I know the powers that be will get us out of here.  If we are evacuated, I can be packed and ready in 5 minutes.  I'm not sure where they would send us, though, but I would certainly tell you as the information becomes available to me, but I  don't think it will come to that.

Again, we are okay, just shaken, literally!

But, as I sit here and blog, my pulse is getting back to normal and my anxiety level is going down.  I am starting to feel normal again.  (Okay, we all know I'm not normal, but at least now my heart isn't going to explode out of my chest!)

It's 12:33 AM.  I could turn on the TV, but all I see is death, destruction and a catastrophe like I've never seen before.  Remember, I've been through hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, but I've never seen anything like this, and I hope I never see it again!  The level of destruction up North is unbelievable, unfathomable.  I'm just glad Sister moved away when she did, because she used to live up north.  (She now lives in Kuwait.)

So, I'll continue to keep you updated.

And, as of right now, we are okay! I'm scared, but prepared.

On going home

Several people have asked if I will be coming home because of all the things going on here in Japan.  Well, I'm already home!  Tokyo, Japan is my home!  This is where I live with my family.

At first I was scared, but now the dust has settled, and things are getting back to normal.  Yes, we have power outages.  Yes, we have long lines at the grocery stores now.  Yes, there is a nuclear plants having problems.  Yes, we are having aftershocks.

But, the power outages are just an inconvenience, and the long lines at the grocery store will end soon, the nuclear power plant is far, far away, and we ALWAYS have earthquakes!

Yes, I'm still nervous and a bit anxious, but I think that's normal considering all that's happened.  But I don't want to uproot my family and move away from everything I have here...I don't want to leave my home!

I love it here!  I love everything about this country, except natto (Japanese fermented soybeans)!  This is my home!   Japan is a great place with wonderful, kind, caring people who are honorable and gracious!  And I am proud and honored to live amongst them.

If things get really bad, which I'm pretty they won't, I'll be evacuated.  Then, I won't have a choice but to leave.  But things are getting back to normal.  There's no need for me to abandon my home.  There's no need to uproot my family.  I think leaving our home would be more stressful for Jude than staying here.  The same goes for me.

So, how can I go home when I'm already here?

Tsunami Footage

We are about 250 miles southwest of here.

Wowzers!

I just went to the grocery store, and it was a freaking zoo.  People are buying water, canned goods, bread, etc.  I went just to check up on a friends who works there because she's all alone (her husband is currently out of the country).

There are also crazy ass long lines for gas, too!

I'm happy to report that we got gas and food on Saturday morning.  When the rest of the folks were glued to their TVs in awe, we were taking action to prepare ourselves for whatever may happen next.

Remember, I'm a Texan through and through.  I've survived hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and refinery explosions.   And, I am my father's child.

So, don't worry about us.  We (my family) are good.

This is when being neurotic and overly prepared has really, really come in handy!

Update

We are fine.  Jude went to school, and Husband is working.  I cancelled my class today and will be spending the day at home.

This is what I know:  Tokyo will be experiencing scheduled rolling blackouts.  Our area will be without power today from 12:30-3:30 PM.  The schools are aware of the situation and will handle the situation accordingly.  Because of the scheduled blackouts, only a few JR trains are running, and traffic is horrible.  I expect that the traffic will only get worse once the power goes out and the street lights stop functioning.  So, because of that, I've decided to cancel my class and stay home.

Also, because of the powered outage, I expect that I will be without water during that time.  Since I live on the 5th floor, a pump is used to push my water upward.  With no electricity, I assume the pump won't be functioning. So, I spent the morning filling up water jugs and the bathtub, so I can have water.

The rolling blackouts are necessary since several of Japan's electrical/nuclear plants received damage from the earthquake and tsunami.  We are told the blackouts will last until sometime in April.

So, I guess this is my new normal.  

NHK

For those of you who want to know what's happening here (real-time), I recommend that you check out NHK's website found here.  You can have up-to-date information about Japan and everything going on over here.  And, I've noticed that most of the stuff on the Internet or on American news is some-what delayed.

Remember, because of daylights savings, we are now 12 hours ahead of you.

Again, we are doing fine and things are getting back to normal here.  Jude's school will be open tomorrow, and I'm scheduled to work tomorrow.  Husband is currently at work and doing what he can to help out.

We are still experiencing aftershocks, but they seem to be less severe and less often.  However, I read a news report that stated we have a 70% chance of experiencing a 7.0 or greater aftershock in the next 3 days.  So, that has me anxious and on alert.

I'm going to try to go to bed soon, but I must do my preparations first.  Each night, since the earthquake happened, I get my bike helmet, flashlights, purse, keys, shoes, and jacket ready.  I put them in my bedroom near the foot of my bed, where I can grab them and go, if necessary.  And, I've been sleeping in my day clothes, just in case I have to run out of my 9 story building during the night.  It's supposed to be about 37 degrees tonight, and I don't want to be freezing and scantily clad if there is a large aftershock, and I have to run out again.

I know I'm crazy, but I want to be prepared, just in case.  I don't want to have to waste one single second looking for these things.  And, I don't want to be without my ID or my medication again.  (I damn near had an asthma attack on Friday when Jude and I ran down the stairs during the big one.  We had to come back in to get my purse and meds.  Then, we hung out at the park because we were scared of aftershocks.)

Besides, having a plan and knowing I've done all I can to prepare, gives me peace of mind.

The Nuclear Reactors

As you know, a couple of Japan's nuclear reactors are having some issues.  You can read more about it here.

As of right now, we are in no current danger.  Since the nuclear facilities are located about 190 miles north/northeast of us, and the prevailing winds are out of the south, we are at no current risk.  If things change, I will let you know.

However, we are still having large aftershocks.  And those have me scared shitless!  Literally, I haven't been able to shit in a couple of days now!  All this stress has jacked up my going ability, but that's TMI!

But don't worry!  We are home and safe, and I'm prepared.  I'm prepared for whatever happens.  I've got food, water and all necessary supplies.  (Maybe I should add laxatives to my Dora the Explorer emergency supply backpack!).  And, we've got a plan.  So, don't worry!

If the shit does hit the fan, I'm sure we'll be evacuated to a safer location.

So, thank you for all your thoughts, prayers and concern.  But don't waste your prayers on me.  We are good!  Pray for the poor Japanese people who live up north.  Pray for those who are suffering and are in need.  Pray for those who lost their lives.  Pray for those who are searching for survivors.  Pray for them!  I think they need your prayers more than I do!

Domo Arigato Mr. Robato!

Tokyo Earthquake Update

We are safe and back at home.  We are still experiencing aftershocks...about once every 30 minutes or so.  Some aftershocks we feel, some we don't.  The ones that are strong enough to cause my light fixtures to sway scare me.  My heart starts to race and that fight or flight instinct kicks in.  Once I feel my building start to roll, I locate Jude, and hold him tight until the rolling/shaking stops.  I'm not sure who's more comforted by the hold, though, him or me.

The trains have started working and things are getting back to normal here.  However, the streets are empty and there is an eerie calmness in my usually hectic city.

Luckily, we have power, and we didn't suffer any damage.  I'm thankful for that.

Actually, today I'm thankful for all the little things we sometimes take for granted, like water, food, and a working toilet.  I know there are thousands of people out there that lack these necessities, and my heart goes out to them.

So, do me a favor.  Hug the ones you love.  Tell them how much you love them.  Because in the end, that's all that matters.

The Big One

Today Japan experienced an 8.9 magnitude earthquake.

I was home at the time with Jude on the 5th floor of our 9 story apartment building. When the shaking started, I ignored it.  But as it intensified, Jude and I grabbed our bike helmets and hid under our dining room table.  After about 10 seconds of severe shaking, Jude started to cry and asked, "Mommy, are we going to die?"  As soon as the words came out of his mouth, I decided we weren't going to stay inside and wait to see what would happen.  We decided to run for it.  And we did just that.

I grabbed Jude's hand, and we ran out the door and headed for the stairs.  Our neighbor, with a newborn, was standing in the doorway of her apartment, crying.  I yelled, "Hurry, run!"  And, we did just that. 

We ran as fast as we possibly could, as fast as my little legs would move.  When we got into the stairway, others were running down, too.  I just kept running, and saying faster...faster...come on.  Once we made it to the first floor, we bolted out of the building and kept running until we were in the parking lot.

We were barefoot, wearing bike helmets, but safe.  And that's all that mattered.

After today, my world is different.  I see things clearer now. 

Nothing else matters, except knowing the ones you love are safe!

All I want to do is take the fear away from my son, but I can't when I'm too scared to go home, too!

Fear is a strange thing.  It grabs hold and won't let go.  But I hope it loosens its grip on Jude.  A 6 year old should never know fear like this!

Oh shit!

So, yesterday at school my kid got busted for kissing a girl.  Keep in mind, Jude is only in kindergarten.  Yes, kindergarten!

Apparently, a little boy told the little girl to kiss Jude.  Jude dodged the kiss, but, then, decided to kiss her...on the lips (thankfully, there was no tongue involved).  Their teacher saw what was going on and took all 3 of them aside and talked to them about their behavior.  Then, she e-mailed me about the incident.

When Jude came home, he spilled the beans as soon as he got off the bus.  He told me what had happened even before I asked--which is a good thing.

Then, I told him that kissing is a good way to spread germs.  I told him that he could get an incurable diseases such as Herpes, and be cursed with mouth sores for the rest of his life, or he could catch a cold or even the flu.  Since my kiddo is really into science, he seemed very aware of the dangers of kissing.

I told him the only girl he should ever kiss is his momma, and his grandmas, of course!

And, he has to be in high school or college to kiss girls!

I have to say I am so not ready for this!  I mean, I know my kid is cute.  That's obvious!  But because of his cuteness, little girls seem drawn to him.  They get a sparkle in their eyes when he comes near. It's crazy to watch.

I can only imagine how high school is going to be!

I guess I should start stocking up on condoms now!

At the train station

I took this picture on Saturday.  Isn't is lovely?  

The end of a good thing

So, today was my last day at my Japanese elementary school.  I decided to quit working there because I was working too much and spending too much time away from home.  So, I decided to quit.  Yes, I'm a quitter, and I'm fine with it!

I do have mixed feelings about quitting this job, though.  I really enjoyed teaching the kids, gossiping with the teachers and seeing what it's like in a Japanese school day in and day out.  I'll miss about 30 kids that I really liked.  But, sometimes we have to choose between what we like and what is best.

So, good-bye to you all.  Thanks for letting me into your world.  Even though I was your teacher and colleague, you have educated me in more ways than you will ever know.

Sayonara!

This is me with my 6-3 class.  

Another toy

We bought a new camera!  This one is an Olympus point and shoot digital camera that can be submerged in water up to 16 feet.  I'm so excited about it and can't wait to use it in Mexico when we go snorkeling.  I love getting new toys!

I heart Husband

He's got a sweet disposition, hard abs, a nice ass, doesn't snore, puts out when I ask him to, and puts up with me.  Yes, ladies, I'm pretty lucky to have a good man at my side.

And even after 8 years of marriage, I still think he's hot. and can't wait for him to do naughty things to me.

Mother and Son Ball

This past weekend Jude and I attended a Mother/Son Ball.  Basically, it was a dance for moms and sons to hang out at together and enjoy each others company while wearing nice clothes.  No dads allowed!

Even though Jude looks like he's in pain in the picture below, he did have a great time and asked to go back next year.

Slow dancing with his momma!

Just another day in Weenie's World!

Never a dull moment

Last night when I was reading to Jude before bed, he was picking his nose.  This is nothing new!  Except that he dropped the booger he happily found in his nose.  He searched for the booger in his bed for a few minutes.  Finally, when he found it, he did the most bizarre thing.  He shoved it back into his nose.  No, I'm not kidding you!  I saw it with my own eyes.

I was shocked when I saw him locate the lost booger, examine it, and then casually shove the thing right back into his nose where it came from.

This was our conversation:

Weenie:  "What are you doing?"

Jude:  "I lost my booger."

Weenie:  "Well, find it and dispose of it properly, please."

Jude:  "Okay."

....searching, searching....


Jude:  "I found it!"

....he looks at it, and then puts it back in his nose...


Weenie:  "What are you doing?"

Jude:  "I'm putting it back where it belongs!"

***Just another day in Weenie's World!