The Man (family) without a country

When I was growing up, one of my greatest enjoyments was reading books - mainly books about history or sports. One book that has stayed with me over the years was a fictional story titled "The Man without a Country". The story centered around an acquaintance of Aaron Burr that, like Burr, was tried for treason. In the trial, the protagonist states that he wishes that he never hears of the United States again. So the judge sentences him to spend the rest of his life living on various naval ships without ever setting foot in the United States again. And no one may share news or even speak to him about the United States. What does all of this have to do with our trip to Japan? Well, at the moment, we technically don't exist according to the military. We cannot get our I.D. cards until we complete AOB training next week. Without I.D. cards, we cannot leave the base, we don't have access to most facilities on base, we cannot apply for housing, etc. And, what's more, after we complete our week-long AOB training, the paperwork will only then be sent in to get the approval for getting our I.D. cards. The whole process may take up to 2 weeks. What makes our situation a little unique is that most people in our position already have military I.D. cards (which allows them access to everything except leaving base). So, until then, we are persona non grata - a family not recognized by anyone (not Japan, not the military). In essence, a family without a country. Of course, our "exile" will only last a couple of weeks, not a lifetime. Although, it may end up feeling like a lifetime. :)

Here are some pictures from day 3 in Japan.

Macie and I looking at how clear the water is.

Across the small bay, a Japanese carmaker is
loading cars into a transport  ship.

Something we hope do soon. You can
rent sailboats from the marina on base. 

Macie looking at the ships, a aircraft
carrier and tanker.

Macie and Mona's new school.

Macie is excited about getting Yen
from the ATM machine.