Welcome to Japan!

Moving to Japan is an overwhelming experience and flying with a 4 month old was something I fretted over for weeks prior to leaving Washington state. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that Ashlyn was a good traveler.  On March 4th, 2011, we boarded the plane and she slept for the first 2 1/2 hours of the flight and then stayed awake and charmed the dickens out of the flight attendants. We also got lucky with great tail winds, as we arrived at the Narita airport over an hour early.

Once we landed, I let everyone get off the plane before I attempted to carry everything off myself. Of course, I thought this was a great idea, until I realized I wouldn't be able to follow the crowd so I knew how to get to customs and immigration! Thankfully, it wasn't long before the flight attendants came along and pointed me in the right direction. Once I was through immigration, I realized that I would have to manage my daughter, huge stroller, 2 carry-ons, and 4 suitcases by myself to get through customs. After a momentary sense of panic, I found a cart, piled on the luggage, and plowed ahead while dragging the stroller behind me. Let me just say right now, those luggage carts are nearly impossible to steer with two hands, much less one!

After I made it through customs, I pointed my load towards the exit and plowed ahead. As I turned the corner, I saw the face I'd been dreaming of for over 2 months waiting for me. All I had to do was barrel down that corridor with my burden in tow, but I felt like I was walking underwater. I couldn't move my legs fast enough, and David couldn't run to me and help, he stood there watching me helplessly as I slowly made my way towards him. When I reached him I got the best present in the world....the biggest, tightest hug I've ever had! Finally, I had my better half to once again make me whole.  Regardless of the fact that the baby and I were exhausted and ready for bed, we stayed awake and savored every moment with Daddy. Even though that day felt like the longest day of my life, I wish I could relive the moment I saw my husbands face over and over..