Journey Home Alone and Away for 7 Months

(Milwaukee Airport)

Well time will always have a beginning and an end. This time it is my time to leave. Our journey to spend our last time with dad was worth the torture of kids crying and the long flights. Just being together with the whole family was great. Anyways, my time was up and it was time for me to depart. This time it was just going to be by myself. Which sucks, I hate leaving when I feel all settled in, especially leaving my wife.

 (Taking off from Milwaukee)

It was a rainy day and I felt sad within, I may sound too emotional but even the toughest person will feel the same as I. Many thoughts run in my head, whenever I close my eyes. Listening to music was hard as well without thinking about everything that has happened when I was there. So sleeping during the flights were difficult. Not just the only thought my father in law, my wife and the family but the thought of not making it back on time. Catching that flight to Okinawa from Seattle was on my mind. 

(Phoenix, AZ)

Throughout my flights, there is one particular religious lady that sat next to me. Throughout the flight, she kept asking questions about if I was a religious person and if things have been going the way I wanted. Since I have told her about my father in law passing and that I wont see my wife for 7 months and that I might have to purchase a ticket to Okinawa out of my own pocket if I do not get on Space A. So as we were landing, she said, "Okay Pancho, lets pray." First off I was pretty freaked out because I had my eyes closed as she held my hands and saying a prayer as we were landing but for some reason I felt really grateful of her her kindness. 

Once I landed and recieved my bag in Seattle. I rushed upstairs to get be in line for 3 hours to get put on the list. Once they got my information, I had to wait for another  4 hours for them to call out names that will be on the flight. I was the 7th person on the list.  Well 5:30am, came and they told me that all Space A passengers have been put on the flight. Alot of weight was lifted off me, and stress level became calm. Prayers from family and the lady during my Phoenix flight all worked out. I was grateful. 

(Mt. Fuji, Japan)

After staying the night at Yokota since the plane needed to be repaired, we were back in the air heading to Iwakuni which only lasted for an hour then to Okinawa. Plans never go the way you expected but I was still glad, I got onto the flight. Once I landed in Okinawa and went home. It was different, I was alone. Sadness settled in and there was not a thing that I could to be to accept it. The internet was down, So I could not use the WiFi to constantly communicate with the family back home. From time to time, I would get a good connection on my phone but not all the time. 

So, many thoughts would run in my head and most of those thoughts would be me not coming back from this deployment. I'm not sure why it pops up in my head and that feeling over comes me but it does. I do not for some reason my body seeks a calm spirituality. Is my soul preparing it automatically for this deployment? Trying to harden it and prepare it for battle? I am not sure, I have never felt like this in my whole lifetime. This is the first. 

I miss my wife.

John 16:32-33

"A time is coming and in face has come when you will be scattered, each to your own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me. " "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. but take heart! I have overcome the world."

Psalm 144:1-2

"Blessed be the LORD, my rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle; My loving kindness and my fortress, My stronghold and my deliverer; My shield and He in whom I take refuge; Who Subdues my people under me. 

Deuteronomy 31:6

"Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. he will not leave you or forsake you."

MOOD- Alone, Spiritual & Weak
SONG PLAYING-Don't Give Up On Me by Jason Aldean

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What a bunch of Skaters!

Southern Hills Sports World here in Okinawa, was the first place I have ever Ice Skated in my life. Yes, I know being born in Alaska you would think that I would of done all the things that winter had in store but nope. I have yet to snowboard, ski, snowmobile and dog sled. This day, I can say I have ice skated. Walking into the ice rink, they were not kidding about being bundled up because this place was freezing. We both could see our breaths and everyone was all suited up, keep in mind it was about 70 degrees outside. It was about, 20 degrees. haha! 

 This trip was the main part of my planned date but to tell you the truth, I was kind of nervous. Yes, me being a dude, I played it off like it did not bother me but my chins were telling me different. Haha! They were killing me but I did not budge, Not yet that is. Anyways, we were the only military affiliated folks on the ice but the locals were nice and friendly. They were able to help us take a photo of us (as you can see below). 

Overall, through the pain and chilled air. It was a great day for the both of us. One of many things, I could check off of things still to do. Thanks to my open minded wife, if it was not for her. I wouldn't be open or confident on things. So, one I am happy that we were able to find this place and second I was very happy to have my wife with me. 

Oh and by the way! I did not fall on my ass. So you can say I'm a Pro!

MOOD- Open, Accomplised & Loved
SONG PLAYING-I won't give up by Jason Mraz

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Just some rain drops

Here in Okinawa, when it rains. It really pours and can make it seem like a typhoon is heading our way but typhoon season does not start till June thru November. The rainy season here starts from April - June. It basically makes it seem like, you should get your car ready and prepped before typhoon season. 

When the rain drops starts falling and the wind starts blowing, try to slow down on the roads and break much earlier. The reason is because the roads are made from flattened coral. So it makes the roads slick and breaking difficult. When it does rain all heavier military vehicles cease due to that reason. So drive safe!

MOOD- Soaked, Drenched & Wet
SONG PLAYING-Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head by B.J. Thomas

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Genghiskan Mongolian BBQ

Finally a buffet that we can enjoy here in Okinawa. This Mongolian BBQ is just like the ones back at in the states. They have different choices of meats like Chicken, Beef, Pork or Lamb. Then a variety of vegetables and sauces. They also have a small dry erase board with their own suggestion, to include as reminder to only eat what you can handle. Which is a smart way of saving food and not wasting it. 

You put your bowl together and top them off with sauces you like. Then hand them over to the cooks as you watch them prepare them for you. Watching them cook your stir fry creation with a spatula and a pair of long chop sticks. I know back in the states, they have a round wok but these are 4 squared ones to only keep up with the tempo of the customers. 

Your bowl is ready to eat when they hand it over to you. So that you can finally enjoy your creation. At this Mongolian BBQ is a buffet, so that not one bowl is made the same unless you want to. Beverages are also unlimited and they do also sell Blue Seal ice cream for dessert. They accept dollars but from only Military members or associated with the military such as spouses. It's $1 for 100Yen, so basically one for one and this place is worth it. 

MOOD- Starving, Craving & Full
SONG PLAYING-Top of the World by The Cataracs

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Okinawa's Ferris Wheel

Just like the London Eye in London, Singapore Flyer in Singapore, Mall of Asia Eye in Philippines or The Seattle Great Wheel in the United States of America but this one in Okinawa is not as large. This ride takes you 60m high and it gives you a view of the East China Sea during the day but when the sun goes away. You can view the lights that glow during the night life in American Village. 

The ride is only 300 Yen for Children and 500 Yen for adults. It takes 15 minutes for one revolution, so it gives you enough time to check out the view from up top. This is one of many places that should be on your, "To Do List," here in Okinawa. Also, this is so close to 3 different bases but it can be easily found. 

MOOD-Tourist, Joyful & Relaxed
SONG PLAYING-Hello by Karmin

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Araha Beach, Okinawa, Japan

*Click on the photos to get a bigger view*

Araha Beach is one of many beaches in Okinawa. This one is located right outside a U.S. Marine Installation Camp Foster and the seawall reaches towards American Village. Along the beach there are some basketball courts, a Ship playground for the smaller kids and some covered picnic tables. Also, many come and go as they exercise on the pathway, either biking, running, jogging or even skate boarding. 

There are some recreation that some locals love doing like fishing, swimming during the hot season, snorkling or just cooling off in the water. Some just love to relax and enjoy the view, smelling the ocean breeze or the smell of the local vendors cooking down the street. 

As for my wife and I, we love the spectacular view of the sun setting over the horizon. As you can see in the photo above. These sunsets have a dramatic way of saying good night to this part of the world. Araha beach is a nice place to relax at during the cool season because not to many people venture towards the beaches. We do not like going to places that are crowded, we try to venture away from the populous and seek other beaches that are quiet and calm. 

MOOD- Relaxed, Calm & Joyful
SONG PLAYING-Die Young by Ke$ha

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Tsutsuji Matsuri - The Azalea Festival

This floral festivities happens the whole month of March. The Azaleas are part of the genus Rhododendron, with these particular flower being part of the sub genus Tsutsuji. Which is why this is called The Azalea Festival. During this time, there are some performances from the Nishihara Band (maybe a school band), some martial arts and Eisa Drummers. 

This Festival is more like a nature walk for those who appreciate nature, flowers or are just proud of their country. Many local Okinawans, mainland Japanese and tourists come and just enjoy the beauty of the flowers. The photo above is a bridge that does not have any pillars or wires to hold this up. So, you can feel it bounce a little but it's strong.

Hagashi was not that long of a drive. On the way towards the festival, I drove by some Angel Trumpets *it was not part of the festival* but they are an amazing flower. Once you go through the 2 tunnels you should see it on your right side. It's a small patch, so if you dont keep an eye out, you'll miss it but when you are heading home. You wont miss it. Other than that, seeing the beaches and the tiny islands and the Okinawan landscape is a plus too. 

MOOD-Tourist, Explorer & Botanist
SONG PLAYING-Say Yeah by Wiz Khalifa

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What is Shabu-shabu?

Shabu-shabu ( also spelled syabu-syabu) is a Japanese dish. the term is an onomatopoeia, derived from the sound emitted when the ingredients are stirred in the cooking pot. The dish is related to sukiyaki in style: both consist of thinly sliced meat and vegetables and served with dipping sauces. However, Shabu-shabu is considered to be more savory and less sweet than sukiyaki. 

I can say that Shabu-shabu is one of the best buffet in Okinawa. We tried this out during the first few months on the island. Since then, we have not found a place to replace it. Being that is cheap is a plus at the same time, it's an experience. The only down fall is that at the cost of 900 yen, with all you can eat Pork and Chicken, the sides are not all you can eat. That would means you would have to pay for every extra bowl of rice, noodles, vegetables and drinks. So be sure you know that at the same time enjoying the delicious taste. So do not forget! 

The place is located right up the escalators from the Sega arcade in American Village. So far they are the best place, we've tried another one but I rather not say the name because I do not want to be promoting a place or giving a it a bad name. So if your a foreigner or stationed in Okinawa, Japan. This is one place you should try out.

MOOD-Hungry, Satisfied & Full
SONG PLAYING-Scream & Shout by Will.i.am feat Britney Spears

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Typhoon Alley

(Typhoon Jelawat 2012 *Blue arrow is pointed at Okinawa*)

What is a Typhoon?

A typhoon is a violent cyclone that occurs in the northwest Pacific Ocean. Typhoons feature heavy rains and winds that maintain speeds equal to or greater than 74 miles (119 kilometers) per hour. Similar storms that occur in the other parts of the world are called tropical cyclones or hurricanes. The word typhoon comes from the Chinese term tai-fung, meaning great wind. 

(One of my Marines car that is flipped)

Typhoon season begins around June - November and during these times, it seems like every weekend has a typhoon hitting Okinawa. Well it is because this island is in the typhoon alley. Typhoons usually roars over us and ends at Guam, South Korea or Mainland Japan. It is said that this year 2013 is going to have some worse typhoons this season but we are ready.

So far since April 2012, we have been hit by at least 3 typhoons. Typhoon Jelawat being the worst typhoon we been in. When it hit, the power was out for at least 12 hours but there were power outages out in town that lasted longer than that. The video up top was one of the vehicles that was blown away by typhoon Jelawat and below would be another one. It's just crazy that not all these cars are blown away. Most of these tiny japanese cars are light weight and boxy. 

(Car blown away, Camp Kinser)

Typhoons are kept a close eye on, just like the hurricanes back in states. It's not like these typhoons hit randomly, so there isn't an excuse for people not being ready. So prepare your SHIT! 

 (2 typhoons lurking around Okinawa *Red arrow is pointed at Okinawa*)

As you can see from the photo above, we are located in the smack dab in the middle of typhoon alley. Yes, it's awesome that we get to get off work but the bad thing is, if we were hit. We do not know if our water and rations will last if stores were shut down but I think we are ready for this year's typhoon season.  Below is the chart that we use to keep track of how close and strong the typhoon that's coming. 

Current Tropical Cyclone Condition of Readiness Chart

TCCOR 4: Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater are possible within 72 hours. TCCOR 4 will be continuously in effect as a minimum condition of readiness from 1 June to 30 November annually.
Now is the time to stock-up on food and Typhoon Supplies.

TCCOR 3: Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater are possible within 48 hours.
Initiate a general cleanup around homes and office.

TCCOR 2: Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater are anticipated within 24 hours.
Remove or secure all outside items.

TCCOR 1: Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater are anticipated within 12 hours. 
No school for DoDDS students. Staff and teachers will work normal hours, unless changed by DoDDS superintendent. Fill any containers you can use for water storage. If you live in low lying quarters, make arrangements to stay with a friend. Make final check of food and other supplies.

TCCOR 1 Caution: Destructive winds of 50 knots or greater are anticipated within 12 hours. Actual winds are 34-49 knots.
All nonessential personnel will be released to their quarters at this time. DoDDS schools will close at this time. Staff and teachers return home or remain home. Base exchange, shops, Commissary, Shoppettes, Gas Station, Services facilities, Clubs, Restaurants, Recreational Facilities and Post Office will close. Movement about the base should be kept to a minimum. SFS will enforce "essential vehicles only"policy.(Reference Base O-Plan 32-1 "Base Disaster Operations Plan)

TCCOR 1 Emergency: Actual winds of 50 knots or greater.
All outside activity is prohibited.

TCCOR 1 Recovery: Destructive winds of 50 knots are no longer occurring. Actual winds are 34-49 knots. 
Nonessential functions remain closed unless directed by the commander. All but emergency essential personnel remain in their quarters.

Storm Watch: The typhoon is moving away but the base is still feeling some effects. Hazardous conditions may exist due to storm damage. In some cases the storm could return to Okinawa , so stay alert. 
All military and civilian personnel will return to work within 2 hours or at normal duty hours unless otherwise instructed by their commander. The Commissary and BX will resume operations, unless directed otherwise by the installation commander.

All Clear: Hazardous conditions and winds are no longer present. Return to normal duties. All Clear is announced when all hazards have been cleared.
DoDDS teachers, staff and students will return to school during normal hours. From June 1st to November 30th Okinawa will return to TCCOR 4.

NOTE: The wind speeds shown above for each TCCOR serve as a guide for decision making. The final decision on TCCOR declaration rests with the Commander, 18th Wing based on wind speed, weather forecast, safety and operational and mission concerns.

Source: USFJ 10-4001 and 18th Wing Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan 10-2

BE READY FOR IT!!!

(Typhoon Bolaven 2012 *Blue arrow is Okinawa & Red arrow is the direction.*)

MOOD- Prepared, Wary & Ready
SONG PLAYING-We Are Young by FUN

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The Unnoticeable Sunrises of Okinawa

(9th ESB Equipment Lot)

You may think that the sunrises in Okinawa is the same as the sunsets but really it's different. Sunsets are not as rare as the sunrises. The reason is because Okinawan's are mostly a night society, so sunsets are seen every night. As for the sunrise, it's really rare because all of Okinawan's are still asleep, getting ready for work or on the road heading to work. 

(Morning before the rifle range)

As for me, I get pretty lucky because the sunrises usually happens 10mins before our Morning formation. The other Marines do not see what I see, but these Marines are young and have a different way of thinking.

 (Driving to work HWY 329)

 Can you see the difference between the sunrises and the sunsets of Okinawa? I think the sunrise has a lot more, "awakening," features. If you do not believe me then why don't you roll out of your bed and stick your head out facing to the East and experience it for yourself.






MOOD- Happy, Calm and Loved
SONG PLAYING-Show goes on/Cannon in d (Violin Cover) by Peter Lee Johnson

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Sunsets of Okinawa

Sunsets on Okinawa are beautiful, breath taking and just plain amazing. My wife and I have never seen such amazing sunsets, until Okinawa. Below are some sunsets I have captured with my Iphone. Yes they have been filtered but just to only show you the actual colors and the details that the original would leave out. 

 (HWY 329, Camp Hansen)

Most of the days right afterwork, I would drive home to see such sunsets over Okinawa. Yes, I have taken these while I was driving and I do not recommend anyone doing this. If you do, you are doing this at your own risk. So overall just drive safe or just pull over and take the photo. 

 (Camp Shields)

Some of the sunsets do form something. Like this sunset above, which seems to be an evil of some sort. Crazy right? I actually slowed down for some of the photos but this one. I actually pulled over and took it. This would be the first sunset that had some crazy cloud formation. Amazing though right?

 (Chibana Housing)

(HWY 27)

 (Kadena BX)

 (HWY 330)

Above are some spectacular sunsets of how the sun enhances the sky and clouds. Also, showing how powerful the sun is by showing the sun rays that punches through. 

 (Uruma Island)

 I am not a professional photographer or a person with an expensive camera. Remember these are taken with just my cell phone and enhanced with the options on my instagram. You can only capture such views if you are fascinated or understand how mother nature works. Okinawa has not yet to disappointment me with its amazing sunsets. Remember do not drive and take photos, ensure you are doing this in a safe manner by just pulling over. Trust me here in Okinawa, you wont be the only one pulling over to view the gorgeous sites. 

MOOD-  Living, Journey & Change
SONG PLAYING-It's Time by Imagine Dragons

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