Beaches, beaches, and more beaches

The best part about living on an island is being surrounded by beaches. 2 weeks ago we spent the weekend at Okuma, a military resort an hour and a half drive north of us. Mind you the island is only around 60 miles from tip to tip, so an hour and a half seems really far from home :)

We had such a fun time, by far the best weekend since we got here a year ago. Our 2 favorite things were riding jet skis and going for a ride on a banana boat that was pulled by a ski boat. They were both so much fun. I am so bummed because I don't have any good action shots thanks to a dead camera battery. We also went on a glass bottom boat ride and saw some cool fish but got totally seasick! The kids loved the miniature golf, Brand was really excited about getting another hole in one.

The cottage we stayed in.

Yesterday we went to another of our favorite beaches. We love it because it is never crowded and not too far from home. The whole day I kept thinking to myself "It is so beautiful, I can't believe we actually live here".

After a number of previous attempts, Josh speared his first fish free diving. He was so excited!Brand and our friend Lauren were totally excited to dissect the fish head.

The boys and I spent the day playing in the waves and hanging out with our friends on the beach.

Brand and Lauren found some really cool starfish.

My new look, a mouth full of metal.

Happy 8th Birthday Brand!

The amazing Brand turned 8 this week. From the time Brand was a little baby Josh and I thought we were the greatest parents ever because we had the most well behaved child ever. He always listened, never caused trouble, and was just an all around fun kid. Around the time Max (child #2) turned into a difficult 18 month old we realized our parenting skills have nothing to do with how great Brand is. We hit the jackpot with Brand, he is just an amazing kid. We have loved every minute of the last 8 years with him! Here are his current favorites:
-Playing with his friends.

-Playing the Wii, his current favorites are Rock Band, Mario Kart, and Super Smash Brothers.

-Japanese curry and rice, he requested this for his birthday dinner.

-Building cool things with Legos.

-Playing basketball and baseball.

-Snorkeling with his dad.

-Swimming

Brand's birthday party was at Torii beach (an on-base beach). It is one of our favorite beaches because it has a super fun water slide as well as swimming in the ocean. We had a great time!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRAND!

What a great year!

Wow, I can't believe we have been here a year! It is funny how time can seem to stand still and fly by at the same time. As we reflect on our last year, here are some of the things we love about Okinawa and miss about the United States.

OKINAWA
being surrounded by beautiful beaches
sushi, Japanese curry, and soba noodles
snorkeling
fun friends
learning about the Japanese culture
fun (and slightly dangerous) parks
our new dog Zoey
no snow
Tokyo Disney this September

THE U.S.
family and friends (we miss you)
family and friends (we really really miss you!!!)
Mexican restaurants
Target, Joann's, Bestbuy, & Home Depot
Michigan football games
streets with names
normal television
crisp apples
fresh berries, watermelon, cherries, & plums
finding what you need at the store
nice movie theaters

I would call this the year of learning for us. Learning to rely on each other. Learning to drive on the left side of the street. Learning about life in the military. Learning about Japan. Learning a bit of Japanese (and I do mean just a bit). Learning we really can do anything as long as we are together.