Sakura Season

This past weekend we ventured out for Claire's first trip into the world.  The most anticipated sign of spring here is the cherry blossom, and they're starting to bloom all over.   There is something quite beautiful about the way that Japanese approach changing seasons.  Year-round, there is always something to be celebrated and sought after.  I've never experienced such enthusiasm for fall leaves anywhere else, or wisteria, or hydrangea, or lavender, or you name it.  It helps me stay in the moment and see the beauty in what currently surrounds us.

There are many parks near base that are popular destinations for cherry blossom viewing.  On Saturday we joined some friends to see the early cherry blossoms down south in Miura Kaigan.  They were in full bloom and beautiful!  We got a late start on the day so we didn't actually make it to the intended park, but the handful of trees by the train station were lovely.  There was a farmer's market set up in the station square, and we grabbed some rice triangles to round out a picnic lunch.  Madeleine missed her nap that day, but all in all it was a successful first family trip.

This area is known for their giant white radishes (daikon). 

Elena had to show off the necklace hiding inside her 

jewelry box... some things I don't question.  Can you tell 

that wardrobe is also a battle I don't bother with?  ;)

Our picnic spot  

My favorite!

Claire's first cherry blossoms.  Actually,

she slept through all of them.  Next year!

Saturday's trip had been a last minute decision, but we had already made plans for a trip on Sunday to see the plum blossoms over in Taura.   Since we hadn't made it all the way to the park, our first trip hadn't felt really complete.  Our girls need room to run around for it to be a really satisfying day.  This park is only a few stops from base, so Adam decided to bike it with the girls on the mommy bike.  He invited me to borrow his bike, but I declined and opted for a quiet train ride with a sleeping baby.  It was lovely.  (The simple pleasures of parenthood)

Plum blossoms come before cherry, so most of the blooms here were already past.

We learned, though, that historically plum blossoms were much more popular in Japan.

The cherry blossom didn't arrive from China until much later.  

This might be hard to see, but here is a doggy backpack.  So cute! :)

Half a dozen people photographing the same tree!

This makes me miss the plum tree in our old house's backyard...

A view of the bay

This is how Claire spent most of her day,

tucked in the carrier.  

Elena's face is hilarious, and I love that 

Madeleine is smiling at the baby.  Classic family photo.

Madeleine completed the course, and is officially a ninja.  ;)

I didn't get pictures of the other toys, but it's a seriously cool obstacle course.

I was nervous that two trips in one weekend was too much, but everyone had such a good time running around the park in the bright sun.  With the big girls and Daddy biking, there was no worry about being a nuisance on the trains.  The whole day was so low-stress, and once again Claire slept most of the time.  I guess we should enjoy family outings now before she starts becoming more opinionated.  :)