Its hard enough meeting ones new in-laws for the first time so when they have traveled from as far away as Japan and are used to a high standard of customer service etc. its doubly difficult.

So I am glad to report that my home town did a great job. Liverpool isn't looking its best at the moment with all the re-building, road works and grey skies but everything else was fine. The staff at the ceremony and reception were very good and joined in the good-humoured atmosphere. The travel and hotels were hassle-free and the food and service at the various restaurants were all first-class.

The family also really enjoyed visits to Albert Dock, Liverpool Tate, The Beatles Story, FACT and the Anglican Cathedral - all in one weekend! Well done Liverpool.

Ueda-san was delighted with our gift of a SuperLambBanana (designed by a Japanese artist).

One of the bizarre happenings at the ceremony was that part where the Registrar asks for anyone with objections to speak now and someone at the back gave a loud sneeze - right on cue - thank you Darren!

You can see from the picture below that we had to face quite a mob of Paparazzi, my jaw is still aching from the constant smiling.

Also here is a cute picture of daughter Emma blowing bubbles at Minako.