Batter Up!

Was a bit bleary eyed this morning.  Should not have had that cappuccino after dinner last night. Had a quick breakfast, packed up our laundry and headed out to Andy's softball game. We got a little off track due to the fact that I typed in the wrong address in the gps, but we weren't far from the mark.  Liam, Ilana, and Tali showed up soon after.  Had a fun time cheering on Andy's team and meeting the gang. Hung around for a bit before heading back to Liam's place for lunch.

Geoff and I stopped at Trader Joe's and picked up some eats.  As it turned out, Liam dropped off Ilana at the Urgent Care Center (nothing to be alarmed about - all is good). We were able to get the our laundry done before Liam got back. Geoff, Liam, Tali and I had  a nice lunch on the patio.  Liam hung around a bit after lunch and then decided to go check on Ilana, leaving us with Tali. Tried to put her down for a nap, but for the most part, all she would do is talk and sing in the crib.  After about an hour, I took her out, changed her, and gave her our early birthday present.

We had ordered her a balance bike for her birthday.  She had a great time helping Grandpa put it together. However, when it came time to getting on thing, that was another matter altogether. Think it will take some getting used to before she feels comfortable riding.  After that activity was over, it was time to go to the park.  Strolled Tali down to this great park which is about a half mile away from the house.  There were lots of kids and families  for their Saturday afternoon outings.  Tali had a good time on the swings and climbing on stuff. She was totally fascinated by not only the older girls but also by the very young kids, not to mention the dogs!!  It was almost 5:00 and getting chilly. Time to call it a day and head for home.

Liam and Ilana were back and invited us to stay for dinner.  They put together a great pasta and salad dinner. We cleaned the dishes while they gave Tali a well deserved bath. We had an "after bath party" in Tali's room with Grandpa reading a fish book which Tali was really getting into. It was tough saying goodbye to the kids but it was time to go. We had a great time and Tali is a great kid. I can't imagine what she is going to be like next time we see her. I can't wait.

Got through the front door of our ATC hosts and were immediately greeted with smiles and a glass of wine and iced tea.  We chatted about Vietnam and various other parts of the world before, we had to beg off to start packing. Tom tried real hard to sift through the Japan Airlines website to get us checked in, but it was quite a challenge.  He printed what he could and we will have to take our chances and hope for the best tomorrow.  Will try to get up and out early.  It is going to be one very long day.  

Goodnight LA.

Next time... The Long Journey to the Far East