Day Trip – Orem, UT

We went on a short drive down to Orem, Ut, took the highway up through the mountain pass which had a river running along side the highway with hiking paths, walking paths and picnic areas. The waterfalls we pretty amazing. We definitely will be heading back there to do some hiking and maybe a picnic … Continue reading Day Trip – Orem, UT

Road Trip – Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

Yes! We finally got out to enjoy some America. Together with cousins from Louisiana we went adventuring North into Idaho, Wyoming and Montana. All new states for us, so we're ticking those off the list! We rented an Airbnb cabin in the woods up near the West gate of Yellowstone for a few nights then … Continue reading Road Trip – Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

Japanese Friendship Garden

Went for a walk around the Japanese Friendship Garden at Balboa Park yesterday. It was my first time going through it though I have been to Balboa quite a lot over the years. I was disappointed by some and enjoyed other bits. The Bonsai tree exhibit was fantastic, the koi ponds and water features were … Continue reading Japanese Friendship Garden

Finally Fuji-San

This was not how I intended to meet Mt. Fuji.  Two and a half years ago I had planned to hike to the summit of this iconic and beautiful World Heritage site at some point during our 3 years here. Last year I planned to hike it with my husband and his daughter, I was simply … Continue reading Finally Fuji-San

Annual Evaluation – Internal Spring Cleaning 2015

It's that time of year again.  It is year two anniversary at the job and my evaluation will be coming up, which I went through last year here.  There's always room for improvement but I'm not sure what I can pin point for discussion with the boss, she will likely ask for this again. At … Continue reading Annual Evaluation – Internal Spring Cleaning 2015

October Excursions – Part 1

  Fukiware Waterfall & Kokeshi Doll Factory: Located in Gunma Prefecture which is North and West of Tokyo, this was about a 4.5 hour drive with a stop in the middle for snacks and restroom break.  Arriving at the Fukiware Waterfall.                 The first photo is a bridge … Continue reading October Excursions – Part 1

10 Things I Love About Living In Japan

I've noticed a lot of bloggers doing lists recently..favorite things, things they hate, things that bother, etc.  So, I thought why not jump on that bandwagon with my own list of things. We have lived in Japan just over a year now and are stilling loving it completely so I will give a list of … Continue reading 10 Things I Love About Living In Japan

Birds of Prey ~ Spiritual Creatures

An unexpected surprise upon moving to Yokosuka are the birds.  Yes I know it's coastal, it's an island!  But, I am used to the Seagulls and Pigeons of California. I was not expecting to see two of my favorite birds constantly in the sky above. The Sea Hawk:  If you know me well you know I am … Continue reading Birds of Prey ~ Spiritual Creatures