As 2024 comes to an end, A.J. and Jen are heading to the airport for the long (but well worth it) flight home to spend the holidays with both sides of the family!
In 2024, Jen continued in the embassy’s Public Affairs Section, supporting Ambassador Rahm Emanuel and visitors like Secretary Blinken for social media and press engagements. A.J. joined the Consular Section, processing visas, visiting Americans in prison, and evacuating Americans out of Lebanon.
Jen and A.J. got to explore more of Japan and Asia! In February, they spent 6 weeks in Fukuoka for a temp assignment and took a 10-day roadtrip around Kyushu Island, filled with volcanoes and hot springs!
A.J. checking out the world’s largest caldera in Kyushu, Japan!
For A.J.’s big 40th birthday, they spent a week hiking in northern Hokkaido with friends, and in the summer, camping on the remote island Kozushima, snorkeling and star gazing.
They found time for a few international adventures to Singapore, Taiwan, and Bali! Of course, the best memories were with visiting family.
A.J. and his sister Megan at the Sensoji Shrine in Tokyo.
A.J.’s parents with Mt. Fuji during the clear winter.
Jen’s parents on Miyajima Island in the spring.
Jen and James exploring Kanazawa shrines and gardens in the fall.
And big news: they’re preparing for a whole new adventure in the new year….
Can’t wait to add the new carry-on!
Warmest wishes from Japan,
Jennifer & A.J.