Jaden in Japan

While on the subject of lucky girls in our family, Miss Jaden got to experience two weeks halfway around the world in Okinawa, Japan! She got to visit Kyle's sister Jasmine and her family as her husband Shane, being a flight surgeon in the United States Air Force, is currently stationed there. Jaden was accompanied on the long 15 hour flight by her cousin Adam, Aunt Tricia and Grandpa Lynn--who was so sweet to have invited her to make the trip alongside him.

When the opportunity presented itself Kyle and I didn't so much have to think twice about sending Jaden to Japan. For starters she would be in the best of hands. Secondly, Jaden and Jasmine's 4 children are like siblings and they have all terribly missed each other since their move to Okinawa from San Antonio, TX--where it was that we got to enjoy so much of them. Also, there are just not enough opportunities for Jaden to get to spend one-on-one time with her Grandpa Lynn. Lastly, and on top of all that, Jaden would benefit from a hands-on cultural experience that you just can't get from books.


We just had to jump at the opportunity. It will forever be a special memory for her. Lucky girl.



While Jaden was in Japan she missed out on the preparations for a 4th grade project that was to be displayed at her elementary schools first-ever "Cultural Diversity Night." (On a side note: we are a very diverse group here in Houston, Texas--better known as the melting pot. As is so evident in my children's class make up. Jaden and Ty are definitely in the minority. And for the record, I really think it's great and such a good environment for my children.) Anyway, before Jaden left for Okinawa she informed her teachers that we had plans to sign her up as a participant in the Cultural Night program representing the country of Japan.
As we attended the rehearsals for Cultural Night, after Jaden's return from Japan, we weren't quite sure how she was to perform. As it was, all of the children that were signed up planned to represent their native country with elaborate dances, singing songs, playing drums etc. In the end and by herself Jaden ended up reading a short overview of her trip. She did it in front of an entire cafeteria packed full of people and dressed in her beautiful kimono. She did a great job.