It’s hard to believe my visit is almost over. For those of you that may come to the island to visit, I warn you it will fly by. The beautiful scenery and relaxing nature of the island makes the time pass you by. Yesterday, my sister and I drove back from Okuma. Instead of driving back on 58, we took the Okinawa Expressway. This is similar to a toll road in the States. While it is not as aesthetically pleasing, it is a good way to see a different part of the island.

Once we were back to the southern part of the island, we stopped at Kedema to get gas. As long as you are a service member or part of the family, always get gas on base. The price of gas is always equivalent to the national average in the States. Before coming back to my sister’s apartment, we stopped at American Village. This is like an outdoor shopping mall. I purchased some little gifts to bring back to friends, as well as a few treats for myself; however, I received my real treat a littler later in the afternoon. My sister and I went to get our nails done and let me tell you, it was amazing. I would highly recommend Cocos. There are two of them located near Kadema. The first one we went to was full, so we went to one a few minutes away and once we there I was glad.

This store was much larger and more open. For a mere 3990 yen, you will receive a fantastic foot massage, beautiful pedicure with design. They have large, cushy lazy boys that recline and give you a tasty, refreshing glass of tea that never less than half full. The employees are warm and welcoming to English speakers. The pedicure was a welcomed hour of relaxation, especially before I went and got my ass kicked in boot camp with my sister again. Waking up this morning, my arms feel like bowling balls. My sister had a few things to do at work today, so this morning I’m on my own.

For any of you that are visiting or living on the island with service members, entertaining yourselves will most likely be a regular occurance. Before my sister left, she pointed out a great running trail. We’ll see if I actually take adavntage of it or not. I am looking forward to tonight. We will be taking part in some of the Okinawa/on-base night life. The plan is to get sushi and then go to some of bars on base. While the Period of Reflection ended, service members still have a curfew and are not allowed to consume alcohol off base. I intrigued to hang out at a bar on base and see how different the environment is.