Starring Brianna …

The photos I have posted so far were taken with a new Panasonic Lumix F-150. I wanted to try out the video mode, so of course, Brianna was my subject.

On the road to Tokyo…

After a questionable start, and the delaying of our trip one day, we found ourselves at the American Airlines terminal at JFK Airport at the much too early hour of 7:00 AM on Friday, September 18. Never knowing what traffic will be like, we left for the airport early, and arrived early — and our flight wasn't until 11:40.
Once airborne, we spent the 13+ hour flight on American Airlines sleeping (Only a little), watching movies (Ever see the Hangover? Really well done and very funny.), reading, and eating at least part of the three meals that were served (I bet if we were in business or first class we would have enjoyed everything that was offered to us).

The flight was smooth as we followed daylight over northern Canada, Alaska (covered by clouds), northeaster Siberia, Korea and finally, Japan.


We breezed through customs (no stories to tell), and the only thing of note was the sight of some Japanese people wearing face masks as they go about their daily lives. It is difficult to figure out if they are wearing the to protect themselves (I read it really doesn't work) or to protect other people.





When we exited customs Brian was there to meet us. He looks great and it was so good to see him. To get to the airport, Brian took the bus from Camp Zama, his duty station. Unfortunately, on weekends (having crossed the international dateline, it was now Saturday afternoon) the next bus wasn't until 5:30 PM, so we had a two hour wait before we could make the 2 1/2 hour trip to Zama (it is appoximately 80 miles). The bus ride was very long, and the Tokyo traffic was as expected. Traffic on the LIE cannot hold a candle to Tokyo traffic.

Finally we arrived at Brian & Vanessa's quarters and we met our precious granddaughter. After 4 1/2 months of photographs, seeing Brianna in person was so special. She is such a good baby and a joy to be with, and we are so happy to be spending time with Brian and Vanessa. We are loving every minute.

More to come…