Okuma Resort

This weekend we went up to the Okuma Beach Resort in the northern most part of the island. We stayed in a cabana that was literally 100 feet from the beach. It was a dreary weekend to be out and about, but that didn't hold us back! We arrived late in the evening on Saturday and went to the Surfside Grill for dinner. While eating, we were able to watch the movie Spiderman on the beach. It was really cool...they had a projection screen set up and you could see the ocean in the background. On Sunday morning, Gracie had a fun time playing at the playground, but she isn't a big fan of the beach. She didn't like how the sand got in her shoes or that it stuck to her hands. She would literally freeze and refuse to move until I cleaned it off of her. She was also a little afraid of the water. I guess she just needs a little more exposure before she will enjoy going to the beach. Okuma Resort has tons of stuff to do for entertainment...golf, putt-putt, tennis, batting cage, maze, go-carts, bicycles, and much much more. We will definitely be making many trips back to Okuma!

Cape Hedo

This weekend, we finally took a short trip up to Cape Hedo. Cape Hedo is the northernmost point of Okinawa’s main island. From here you can enjoy one of the most breathtaking views on island. You’ll see both the Pacific and the East China Sea in one glance from the 230-foot-high cliffs. At the tip of Cape Hedo stands a Memorial Tower commemorating the reversion of Okinawa to Japan. The monument is simply inscribed with the words, "Present People of Japan and the World." Cape Hedo is one of the few sites on Okinawa that is considered almost sacred ground due to the many people who died there during World War II. If you ever visit Okinawa, Cape Hedo is a must see!

Comprehensive Park

This past weekend, Mike and I took Gracie to Okinawa's Comprehensive Park. In one word...amazing! It was one of the most beautiful, and, well, comprehensive parks I have ever seen! It had many trails, a water park, a duck pond, playgrounds, and tons of wide open space. Gracie had a great time at one of the playgrounds. I think her favorite part was going down the roller slide. Most slides in Okinawa are made of rollers, instead of the flat, slick surface the slides have back home. They make a lot of noise when you go down, but you can go really fast! I honestly think Mike had more fun than Gracie at the playground! We didn't even come close to seeing all this park has to offer, so stay tuned and hopefully we can post more pictures of our future trips to Comprehensive Park!

Gracie going down the roller slide.Mike and Gracie going down the slide.
Gracie playing on the playground.
Gracie and Mike running around the playground.
Gracie waving bye-bye!

MWHS-1 Marine Corps Ball

Here are just a few of pictures we took at the MWHS-1 Marine Corps Birthday Ball. This was the second ball for us to attend in one week. Overall, the ball was exactly like the one we attended on Tuesday (see post below)...it was even held at the same location! The speaker at this ball was phenomenal! The guest speaker was Sergeant Major Cook, and she was hilarious! She didn't give the traditional blah blah blah speech....her speech was funny, and it was focused primarily on why it is so great to be a Marine versus other service branches. It was a great morale booster!

Nicole

Mike and Matthew

Where's Gracie???

I just couldn't resist sharing this with you! Mike and I were sitting down to relax for the evening, and Gracie decided to literally get inside our entertainment center. Luckily, the camera was near by and we were able to capture the moment. It was hilarious! I bet she got in and out of the little cabinet at least 15 times! She was so amused at the fact that she could fit in the small cubby and still manage to close the door. Each and every time we would say, "Where's Gracie?", and she would fling open the door and "surprise" us! Of course, we acted surprised each and EVERY time! She probably would have continued this for the rest of the night (and Mike and I would have probably watched it!), but it was time for bed. It obviously doesn't take much to amuse us these days!

MASS 2 Marine Corps Birthday Ball

Last night was the 232nd Marine Corps Birthday Ball for the MASS 2 Squadron. The ball had an amazing opening ceremony to include a memorial table with a candle, purple heart medal, and blank dog tags to recognize those Marines who have given their lives and made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. It was a truly moving ceremony and precisely planned by the commanding officer. After the ceremony, we visited with friends and enjoyed a fantastic meal. The night flew by with dancing and tons of picture taking. The best part was that the commanding officer and the Sergeant Major danced the night away with all of the other Marines and spouses. It truly was a great night, and we get to attend another birthday ball on Thursday!

Mike and Nicole

Mike, Curt, Tim, and Matthew Mike (That's MY Marine!)
Lindsey and Nicole

Video of Gracie

It has been a while since I have captured any recent videos of Gracie. She is all over the place lately and into everything! I am usually finding myself either dodging flying objects or protecting what little valuables we have left! Anyway, here is the most recent video I was able to capture of Gracie. She is surprisingly having a great day and playing very nicely! Enjoy!