Back to the Land of the Rising Sun...

Ryan's first trip to Japan - 2013 (5 years old)

Ryan's second trip to Japan (2018) - 9 years old

...aaaand we're back. After our last trip to Japan in February, we had such a fabulous time that we discussed trying to come back a little more often (since our last trip there was in 2013). However, I don't think either of us planned on returning four months later. It's a long story as to why we're back so soon, so I'll try to keep it short: Rich is going on a cruise to the Caribbean in November. He wanted us to come with him, but because of school, karate and a family trip later that month, Ry and I really couldn't afford to go too. Instead, Ry and I are headed to Japan for about 2.5 weeks so that he can attend a private language school there. He's very excited about the opportunity to explore whether he would like to further his language studies over future summer vacations in Japan, or get a tutor in Hawaii.

It will be our first trip without Rich...our chief sherpa (he always carries the liquids and tech devices!) and navigator (I am directionally-challenged). However, we'll be far from lonely while away. My mom will be with us the first 5-6 days. My brother, sister in law and nephews will also be a few miles away while we're there, and I'm sure we'll see them a few times. Two of our Kona friends, Yuri & Sei, will be passing through town while we're there as well at separate times. And we also have a karate friend who just moved back there from Kona last year. I know that leading my mini travel group will definitely not be easy at times, but I'm determined to get through it as best I can. I've always wondered if I could travel solo, without my Chief Navigational Officer and Head Bellman, and now I'll get to find out.