Today I had an opportunity to race the “world’s fastest fetus” in the pool, and I have to report, the fetus won – big time! Even at seven months pregnant, Mary can blaze through the water no slower than our college days. I think it’s safe to say her child is destined to be a fish!
After my beating in the pool, Charlie and Rico took me on another bicycle tour of Okinawa. But this time we rode out of town toward another island – Ikei Island.
Ikei is a very quiet and peaceful island connected to Okinawa by a series of bridges. I happen to love riding over bridges, so I especially enjoyed this ride.
Starting in the hustle and bustle of town, we passed Japanese children on their way to class, and listened to the school bells ring (I swear one was chiming along to the Beatles “Yesterday”). We passed the remains of an ancient castle, and stopped to admire the view from the long bridge that connects the smaller islands to Okinawa.
We climbed one of the steepest roads I’ve ever ridden, but the view from the top was more than worth it!
The turquoise water along the coast was stunning,
And the final bridge leading to the island was equally beautiful. (Isn’t it funny – I’m actually riding on the correct side of the road in this pic!)
The view from the beach at the tip of Ikei was absolutely incredible! It was hard to believe we got there by bike!
Once back in Okinawa, Mary and I had a great time playing around in the Japanese photo booths. The camera automatically make your eyes huge and will even let you “touch up” the pics with fun designs and airbrushing. The end result is hilarious!
Another highlight of the day was sampling Japanese donuts. Turns out they are just as delicious as the American version!
Today was my last full day in Okinawa, and while I’m sad to leave, I have had the BEST time here. I’ve caught up with old friends and made some new ones. And I feel like I’ve really experienced a whole new part of the world. I’ll be leaving the island with so many amazing memories. And if only I could figure out a way to take some of this gorgeous weather back with me, everything would be perfect! Sayonara!
