Thank god!!!

I guess all the prayers from everyone around the world and all the cyber hugs must have worked because as of tomorrow morning, people are allowed to carry on a small piece of hand luggage onto the plane and although lots of thing are still banned, I will at least be able to carry one or two toys for Joey. I am feeling a little bit better as a result. That said I am REALLY distraught about there only being one more night left before we fly! I know there are good things to go back to, one of my best friends in Kagoshima is expecting a baby in February, one of my other close friends is due to give birth any day now in Fukuoka, I have good friends, a job that while it isn't what I want to do for the rest of my life, enables me to have my son with me as much as possible. I also have a child-proof apartment with a fabulous view waiting for me which will make things a little bit less stressful but still I feel a horrible sad feeling and a lump in my throat. I guess that is normal though. I do know that it was ALOT harder to leave last year so I think that is a sign that things are much better in my life in Kagoshima than they were a year ago. Sooo.. after my last post I bet you are all DYING to know what went down with the christening.. the boring news is that the drama had abated by the morning, I was very angry when I wrote the last post but just writing it was very cathartic and I came to the conclusion that while I probably could have made more of an effort with my brother, I hadn't thought it was necessary because as he said, we are family! The christening went like a dream. Joey was beautifully behaved, there was enough food afterwards and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. My brother and his fiancee came to the party and looked after Joey for me so I could catch up with all my friends who had come from all around to be there for the day. (thanks guys!!) It was a really nice day (the weather came out to play for most of the afternoon!) and I felt so happy surrounded by my family and friends. Joey made out like a bandit with the gifts and I am so grateful to everyone for making our day so wonderful! Pictures have been posted on Joey's blog!!