The morning of our last day, we just walked around the city, checking out Salisbury Road and looking for a playground.  These guys are spoiled in Japan with playgrounds on every corner.  We really had to hunt for this one.  Hazel spent much of the time with her hands in her mouth (hello, two-year molars!), and it’s amazing she didn’t get sick.  After a long delayed flight, we made it home just before midnight, tired and happy.  

Every time we travel, I’m reminded that “one does not take a vacation with kids.  One takes a trip.”  I still think this is true, but it gets easier/better every time.  This was the most vacation-y trip we’ve taken yet.  I read a whole book!  And got my first pedicure in seven years!  I credit the hotel for making this possible.  They had babysitting services, but I wasn’t quite comfortable with that.  But I would stay in the room while Hazel napped Ben and Max would go to the pool, or go eat in the lounge.  One night we put Hazel down for bed early and Ben took Max to the lounge for dessert.  I sat in my comfy robe, made a pot of tea, and watched the light show over the harbor while reading my book.  And Ben was kind enough to let me escape to the spa for an hour our last morning.  These are good, good years staying at home with both these guys full-time, and I’m so sad they’re going so quickly, but these brief times of rest feel so luxurious.