“TOUGHEN UP,” says Sassy Angel Mommy.

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p.s. You can do it.

I cannot tell you how funny it is to watch two kids in 2016 learn how to identify each other on a land line phone with no caller ID.

“How do you stop it?!”

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I couldn’t figure out how to mention the mp3 player until this back-to-NY edition. It has been her constant companion. We are all in on early morning flights home now (got back at dinner time last night, as you can see.) Just in time for our country’s latest entry in imperialist kidnappings. I am trying. It is trying, I guess, but I am holding on tight to every moment of the last two weeks to keep me on track.

Her fingers are so pokey.

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A city (and mayor) I’m proud to fly home to after this long, wonderful break in the Bay—even if Kina hates speeches.

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At least we made it to New York New Year.

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Despite asking me every twelve seconds “how many more galleries are there?” she sat with every hand-inked spread from some eight legendary manga artists to appreciate their work. Then she spent ten bucks on gashopon.

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Celebrity sighting: Spider-Man and Joan Baez yield space at register to publisher and starstruck auntie-sister.

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The slugs were an unexpected and unpleasantly squishy twist on Kina’s annual nature reserve adventure.

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Elephant seals also probably smell bad, apparently. Buff, regardless. So buff.

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Pasta Christmas continues. Do not lose faith in Pasta Christmas.

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Ham for parents. Pasta for kids.

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“Best in the box” is my new favorite phrase.

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Like a roman emperor, this one (not pejorative).

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Am I secretly amazing at mini golf? Was this always my calling?

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Jade the garden cat ate well yesterday.

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Our favorite way to deal with jet lag is to go to the places that are open for breakfast at 5. Always a good move.

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Nothing is going to stop this child from flying to the great state of California.

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Mommy received her flowers in front of the entire class. Bravo!

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