Getting Settled

Easter Sunday was a relaxing, warm sunny day here in Tokyo.  We didn't venture out much over the weekend but spent time getting the apartment organized and hanging some artwork.  We're so grateful to have our stuff finally.  The sea shipment arrived on Thursday.  It was actually a holiday here in Japan (vernal equinox) and Rich had the day off so we toiled with the movers unpacking as quickly as possible.

As more and more boxes of Max's toys began to pile up, I cursed myself for sending too much stuff.  Luckily, the apartment has a pretty good amount of storage space and I shipped a lot of baskets and containers so began to organize the toys - small toy animal figures in one basket, cars, trains, trucks in another, stuffed animals in one, kitchen toys in another, and it began to take shape.  Shove the random stuff in his closet.

The good thing is that since Thursday Max has not asked to watch TV.  Yay!  He is thrilled to have his books, farm animals and favorite toys...namely the ball machine.... a beloved hand-me-down from Colin. (See the videos for more ball action.)  Here's Max playing with his farm on his table made by Opa Mark.  You can see the view from his window a bit in this picture.

I'd still pack less if I had to do it over.  We sent over two rugs that we don't need and a few things Max has already grown out of.  So we may have to call the movers back and send our stuff across the ocean again. 

On Easter Sunday we finally met up with Tazuko and her husband Eiichi for brunch.  Max amused everyone --- especially back at the house where he ran back and forth and really warmed up to Tazuko.  Here they are chilling in the living room.  It was a great visit and a nice way to cap off Easter weekend.