There are lots of things I will miss about being in Japan, here are some of them in no particular order...
Sunsets and walks on the sea wall- we tried to do this on Sunday afternoons. It was so beautiful and peaceful. We would always run into at least 2 families from the branch doing the same thing. It was also a tradition to go running on the seawall on Christmas day!
Our small and simple backyard- I didn't think I would miss this because sometimes I really just wanted some privacy, but there was always someone to play with and always an adult to talk to if you walked over to the park. If we couldn't think of anything else to do, the kids were always more than satisfied to play at the park. Every day. All day. It was also nice to only ever spend a max of 30 minutes doing yard work.
Beach Day- The beaches were so incredibly beautiful. This was Kadena Marina; the kids loved to swim at this simple beach. We rented kayaks, paddle boards, jumped off the dock and played in the sand. All just a 7 minute drive from home.
The Stairway to Heaven- this started out as a love hate relationship, but ended up becoming my favorite workout. I think I maxed out at about 120 flights at one time. No matter how often I did them, it was never an easy workout. And man, could you burn some serious calories, especially in the summer.
The Keramas- I'm pretty sure diving will never really get any better than this. It is so incredibly beautiful both above and below the water.
So many friends and neighbors- within 4 doors there were 3 other kindergartners that went to school with Brooke and 3 other boys that were Spencer's age. I guess that's the advantage of living in a multiplex.
Exploring the island- there was always somewhere to explore on the island. This was a waterfall hike that we did right before we left. I feel like you don't get this kind of stuff if the states.
Random places for kids to play- this was a wooden toy museum in the middle of nowhere
Vending machines- you could find a vending machine anywhere that had cold water in it, or hot drinks if you prefer.
Cocok's pedicure- you will never be satisfied by another pedicure after having one from Cocok's in Okinawa. Not only did they do the coolest designs and really any design you wanted, but it was the best massage you will get while having a pedicure.
FRIENDS- Man, I can't even write about this without wanting to cry. A few nights before we left we had a goodbye party at the pool for us and another family that was leaving. So many good friends that I may never see again till we get to heaven. I don't know how I would have made it through the 3 years without these families. My heart goes out to all of you for the kindness you shared with our family...Lovells, Oblads, Daltons, Delaps, Lows, Thomas', Bishops,
Other things I will miss...
-Always having an ocean view when leaving the base
- Black Thunder candy bars
- Yakiniku which is actually Korean BBQ but oh so good
- Nursing rooms: most public places have a private room for nursing moms. There was a curtain so you could be in there on your own, so considerate.
- Roller slides: super fun even though I broke my finger on one.
- Playgrounds: they are even fun for adults in Okinawa. US parks just seem so lame now
Last, but almost most important would be the Safety. I never once worried about someone taking my kids or being out alone at night. Everything is so safe, people are so kind, the Japanese are so courteous.
I love the USA, but Japan will always hold a special place in my heart.
