Tokyo Earthquake 2011

Rumor has it the we were in Mainland Japan for the Earthquake in March...well...rumors were right! Espe and I traveled to mainland with the Okinawa Dolphin Swim Team for a Swim Meet in Tokyo. Luckily we were on Atsugi Naval base during the earthquake and were blessed to have nothing happen to any of us. However, our thoughts where with those who were affected by the quake.

Finally touching ground in Okinawa. This was the highlight of the trip the C-130 ride home.

Happy to be home!

In Atsugi waiting..waiting for a ride home the impending danger of the nuclear reactor stressing everyone!!

No sleep!

Espe get to help drive us home!

4 hour ride home to OKinawa

View of Mt. Fugi from the the C- 130

Before the earthquake

After the earthquake..kids were all ok and resilient!

Our thoughts and prayers to all of those who are still recovering from the

aftermath or the quake.

Christmas with The Tates

We had the pleasure of spending a holiday meal with Espe's Coach Kwan and her friends and family. What a get together. Kwan is a Thai Chef and what could be better than a Thai Feast.

The Tates Newest Edition

Titi Mari and Espe enjoy some Thai Cuisine too!

Trying to help the chef ..think I need more training but it was an honor and a pleasure. Look at these beautiful dishes.

Thanks Kwan for sharing a some trade secrets it was delicious! Many blessings you will be missed. for you and your family

The Holidays in Okinawa

We spent Christmas day with our new Okinawan friends and American soldiers and their families. It was a gathering of all those who are missing their friends and families during the holidays.

Maribel my lil sis got to spend the holidays with us Okinawan style. It was a great gift. Mom and dad would have been pleased.

Pajama day!

Espe still loves Christmas!! Its all about her...and baby Jesus of course.

Santa's Stocking!

New Year In Okinawa - Day 1

New Year festivities here take place over the course of 3 days. We visited to the mall on Day 1 to hear Okinawan music.

The San-A supermarket's to-go section was loaded with party platters of sushi, sashimi and other Japanese yummy bites.