Mt. Fuji Detectives

Okay, here's what we know. You got in a red sports car and raced down to Mt. Fuji. We were led to believe you weren't able to climb at this time of year, but no Skyping and some lame excuse that you have to get up early to go to the airport??? Sounds a bit suspicious. Knowing you how we do, the kids took one look at your photos and guessed that you went to Mt. Fuji and climbed it... or at least part of it. So, we decided to do the same. Embarking from Otsuki, we took a train and then a bus to Mt. Fuji. Then, we bought our walking staff, replete with bells (significance?) and set off under the arch toward the summit. Along the way, we got seals put on our staff to mark our ascent. At about 10,000 ft. (on our way up to 12,000) we got to thinking that this was not (puff, puff) as good an idea as we thought. But the views... above the clouds... awe inspiring. So, we trudged onto the summit and then listened to a crazy, romantic sounding Japanese pop song as the sun set. Of course, we set a record on the mountain, summiting in a little under 4 minutes (and that includes a train and bus ride). So, did you climb it??? Okay, to recap yesterday, we woke up early and crossed the border to go for a walk. As we descended into the valley to cross the river, we entered a fog bank. The kids really liked that. It turned out we were the first ones in the park. We hiked the loop by the river and the lake. Crisp autumn weather made it quite lovely. We even got to see the steamboat rev it's engines. At the lake, the kids snuck up on a whole gaggle of geese and they, one by one, abandoned the shore to us. Then, Holden managed to spy a baby painted turtle in the water. What skills of observation! Finally, we retired to the nearby bakery for a mid-morning treat. Then, it was home to build a bonfire. Holden took this opportunity to practice drumming outside with me, while Sydney did crafts. Fun and relaxing day. Today, we are just getting to ready to go for our morning walk. We have been invited by Gary, Clare, and Ada to go to a movie, so we have that to look forward to this afternoon. If I don't answer your call, that may be the reason. But I'll try to pick up. Have a good flight! We love you!!!