So we had a last minute change of heart to renew Chika’s US Greencard, which is not a big deal until you have to travel with 11-month Kai.  Amidst all the anxiety of travelling, getting around, dealing with daily routines, etc., it turned out to be a really nice trip.  We didn’t plan any major activities, so it was just Kai all day (which started at 1:30am the first night) for 5 days.  I think we need to have these more often (but will be happy if the Greencard app goes through without needing to return for an interview).