Konnichiwa (Hello) says Lea Hatch from Japan.

Lea has been spending time in Japan visiting with family members currently stationed at the Naval Air Base, Atsugi. Located on the outskirts of Tokyo and Yokohama, she is with son-inlaw Eric Wood,daughter Meredith (Hatch) Wood and grandsons Brennen and Carter Wood.

While in Japan, several outings have included observing the many cherry blossoms throughout the region, visiting the Shinjuku National Gardens, a mountain hot spring (Yunesin), the Tokyo Government buildings, lakes and waterfalls. One additional day has been set aside to spend the day at Tokyo Disney. While touring a mountaintop waterfall, Lea was able to spot several Japanese Snow Monkeys playing in the forest.

Eric and Meredith are completing their 4th year assignment in Japan before heading back to the United States and their relocation in Southern Californian (Port Hueneme Naval Base). Brennen attends first grade and in addition to the typical reading, writing and arithmetic - he and his classmates spend time learning Japanese and Spanish. He enjoys being part of the Cub Scouts, where Meredith is one of the 'moms' of Troop 22. The most recent activity for the troop was to meet with the Fighter Pilots and explore the helicopters which are housed at the Atsugi Base. Spring sports will begin soon, and Brennen will playing Little League baseball. In the past he has also played soccer (Eric was a coach); the boys also participate in swimming lessons in the summer. Carter attends a preschool program two or three mornings each week which offers socialization and language skills.

The Japanese rail system is extremely punctual, and while there are often traffic jams on the highways the trains arrive and depart very efficiently with most cars filled with passengers. Each train station is the 'home' of several Raumen restaurants, where one can quickly purchase a Bento Box or Set Meal to go. Other shops at the stations include minimarkets, and some (such as Yokohama) are complete with shopping centers.

During this trip (Lea's third to Japan) Mt Fuji was easily visible from the Naval Base - there is still quite a bit of snow on the mountain.

While Lea has been traveling, her husband Jeff has been at home in Northfield. He will be awaiting her return next week when she flies back to Burlington. Eric and Meredith will return to the states in July and will enjoy great pleasure in spending time with friends and family in Vermont.

SAYONARA!!