Thursday, June 24, 2010

Bubbly Almond Heaven


Yes, it is just that good that it deserves it's very own post.

A few weeks ago Boots had to go on a trip and one of the stops was in San Diego. He was in the market for birthday presents for me and knowing one of my favorite things ever is this Almond Champagne, he got our good friend to get some for me. He brought me home 2 bottles and I'm a very happy girl. I first found out about this amazing stuff last year at the same good friend mentioned above's wedding. I don't know how many bottles I drank of it by myself that night, but I had an incredible time at their wedding and have been a huge lover of Almond Champagne ever since. I've tried other kinds since then when I was in the states, but this kind is by far my favorite. Now I'm in Okinawa where there is no Almond Champagne of any kind, so this is a rare and special treat.

We savored one bottle last weekend (while watching True Blood, an amazing, wonderful combination). I'm saving the other one for my birthday next week. I sure hope Boots gets to go back to Cali soon. ;)

Work and Play

Phew, by the time I get done posting about last weekend another weekend is almost upon me. That's because I've been doing a lot of this:


And this:


Meet my new favorite, my new love. Sky:



Sky is (and hopefully will continue to be) my new project. He is very challenging to ride, but has a canter from my dreams, so I'm willing to put up with a lot.


My lesson schedule is starting to really fill up and I'm spending more and more time at the barn. This week it felt great to get up in the morning, get ready for work, pack a lunch and fill my to-go coffee mug and go off to work, except to me it still doesn't feel like work, it feels like something I love and enjoy doing.




This is a busy barn that has a lot more going on than just horses. There are at least 5 dogs running around, one had puppies a few weeks ago. And in the back of the barn there are a bunch of bunnies.



I took this a few weeks ago when the puppies were about 3 weeks old. So adorable! They are 9 weeks old now and only 2 more need to be adopted.

This was my favorite pup, Hippo! I wanted to take him home so bad! Stupid towers and their no pet policy. I'm glad he found a nice home though.

And look what was just born today. Check out this cutie, only a couple of hours old. I introduce you to Squishy:

Garden Oasis

After we did Kokusai Street we went over to the nearby Fukushen Garden. It had been extremely hot and busy walking up and down the street, so we gladly welcomed the shady and peaceful Chinese garden. The garden was extremely intricate and detailed with stone sculptures, waterfalls, bridges, flowers and winding paths. I think it may have been the nicest garden I've ever been to. The lake is full of fish and turtles and we bought some fish food for 100 yen, and that was the only money we spent there, admittance is free.









Underneath the waterfall






The picture above is the painted, domed roof of the gazebo in the picture above this one. The garden was full of beautiful surprises like this.




And, yet again, I'll end with flower montage!





Sunday, June 20, 2010

Kokusai Street

This weekend we explored this lively and colorful shopping street in Naha. Kokusai Street has it all from shopping, food and Okinawan culture. Check out this video for more information.





Kokusai Street or International Street is often called the "Heartbeat of Okinawa" because of the crowds that flock here. The street is lined with hotels, retail stores, malls, souvenir shops, bars and restaurants.









We walked up and down the street, peeked into shops and window shopped. It was hot as blazes, so we stopped for a break and got a bite to eat and enjoyed cold beers in the shade. Guys were providing us with street music for entertainment in addition to watching the people pass by.






This mile long street is also the location for many events and festivals throughout the year, so I look forward to going back!