Leslie Thomas
Sakura Season
Springtime is historically a time of rebirth and growth. No place is this more true than Japan.
Spring brings Sakura, the beautiful cherry blossoms season....
Meeting People: Being Intentional About Friendships
When I say I’m an introvert I don’t mean the kind of introvert that doesn’t like big crowds or needs a minute to regroup...
My Tried and Tested Plan for PCSing with Kids
I lived my entire childhood in one town. Then, I went to college less than 30 minutes away. To say that I feel ill-equipped...
Sayonara Japan
We are leaving Japan, and it's bittersweet.
I have loved this country. I have a child that only remembers this country. It is breathtaking and awe...
Homeschooling Doesn’t Have To Be Permanent
We have homeschooled our four children for several years. *Note I’m using the royal we. I have been responsible for their education for the...
Showers Are Not Self-Care: My Month-Long Challenge
When I was young, single, and child-free, I went to the spa monthly.
I had my nails done every two weeks and my hair done...
Breast Cancer Facts and Ways to Help All Year
If you see me with pink streaks in my hair this month, it's because for the last three decades in the United States, October...
Far from Home: Recipes for Celebrating Thanksgiving When You Are Away
I know what you’re thinking and no, this is not a post about Spider-Man’s Thanksgiving (although I did debate spinning a tale about just...
Is Being a Wife and Mother Enough?
I have always wanted to be a doctor. I've known it for nearly my entire life, outside of a few childhood dreams that were...
Miyajima: Exploring Japan’s Deer Island
Even though it causes feelings of anxiety and stress, I love to travel with my children. It is one of our favorite activities, and...
Marriage During the Montage Years
Montage, You Say?
You know in a movie when the conflict has been presented and while the solution is being worked on, they focus on...
It’s Summer…What Are You Going to Do Today?
Summer is here, and I know in many OCONUS stations there are no summer camp options for non essential personnel.
So what will we do...











