Maiden Voyage to Tokyo

So, our little family has been here less than a month. Walter and I had been discussing taking a trip into Tokyo, so when a friend mentioned a group from work was going to Shinjuku and Shibuya, so we decided to tag along, figuring the best way to re-familiarize ourselves was to use others' expertise rather than stress ourselves trying to figure out everything - all the while watching/entertaining the kids. When we used to walk around Tokyo and explore, the unknown was part of the fun. With two little people in toe, however, they tend to get a little bored and well, that's not exactly the fun part. Our decision proved a good one. The group (all with kids in similar age groups), had chosen a restaurant where you catch your own dinner, followed by a children's discovery center. The hour train trip into Tokyo went rather well. It was standing room only but thanks to conversation moved along pretty well. Then miles of underground sidewalk, people dodging, and trying to convince Genna that a piggy back ride is the they way to travel while we got our gang to the restaurant, which was in the Washington Hotel. Much to my pleasure, I remembered walking through this hotel frequently on our way back to the subway all those years ago. Otherwise, not too much felt familiar except names on the subway map. The English translator is extremely clear on the subways and trains now as well, even telling you which side of the train the doors open . . . and on a very crowded train, that is helpful information! Overall, the kids had a great time. Gabe and Genna had an awesome time, he talks about his fish all the time and how tasty it was. And yes - he ate his fish! That was most exciting to me! Genna had fun trying to get soy beans out of their pods, she tried the fish but passed it along, apparently not her thing. On a side note, she loves washing her hands and using the little hand dryers. She never passes up the chance to wash and dry her hands. Well, hope you enjoy the photos. I'm going to attempt uploading a video too so hopefully that works as well. Love you all!