“JAPAN!” How excited I was to hear this from the lips of my husband! Oh, the places to go. The foods to try. The sights, sounds, and smells of the heart of Tokyo! Let us not forget Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Mt. Fuji, just to mention a few of the places to experience. I was ready to get back to living life overseas! I knew COVID would be under control by the time we would arrive at Yokota Air Base in September 2020.

Well, nine months later, I have not experienced much of the excitement of Tokyo. I have not made it to Okinawa, Hiroshima, or even Mt. Fuji, yet. But I will! I've been out in Fussa and I have enjoyed the beauty of Yokota. My husband bought me the best gift ever! He gave me a Canon EOS 60 D. I have discovered a love for photography!

Fun-filled day trip

Recently, a friend took me to Takashimaya, a department store in Tachikawa. It is about a 20-minute drive from Yokota. I had the best time! We ate at an Okinawan restaurant. I closed my eyes and pretended I was on the beach. I savored every bite of food. My friend told me the food of Okinawa was better than your typical Japanese cuisine. I think she is right!

If you like shopping this is the place to go. The mall was so big! Whatever you want you will find there. I was impressed with the tarts. They were like beautiful works of art. I could have stayed longer. There were so many wonderful things to see. It was a great day trip. I can't wait to go back and explore more.

I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I know, it won't be long until we will be going to the heart of Tokyo, Okinawa, Hiroshima, and many more places. Until then, I am practicing my camera skills, and enjoying the sights, sounds, and flavors of life in my own backyard. The beauty is here. You just have to open your eyes and see it.