water falls

Today I did some more wandering, but this time I kept walking north of Araha Beach (yesterday's trek). I had to stay at a rather brisk pace to try and beat the storm that was brewing. Thankfully, I made it back just in time. I guess it's back to the cold and rainy weather for a while. It was fun, though, to meander up and down the little alley ways and streets here in town. It was also nice to walk along the water - something that truly makes me happy. Whenever I go on my "walking adventures" I almost never have a plan - I just walk. If I see something that strikes me, I go there. Interesting, that this kind of attitude is quite synonymous with the way I live my life. Always eager to explore and go places I've never been. And I'm ok with that.

waiting on the sun

I was in desperate need of some sunshine, as it has been pretty dreary here the last week or so. The warm and sunny weather hasn't been anything like what we've seen here lately, and it brought with it a sense of renewal and anticipation. Today I spent the afternoon walking along Araha Beach, one of my favorite beaches within walking distance from where I live. It's easy to dream in a place like this.

love in fall

staying afloat

There are a few things in life that make me happier than anything - exploring is one of them. I find so much fulfillment in taking risks and chances, removing myself from the places I feel most comfortable. And sometimes, it's the simplest of days that I feel most alive...just drifting.

happy hiking

This weekend's adventure - a hike to Hiji Falls on the north end of the island. I've made a friend here who is just as interested in photography as I am, and it's been great having someone to pal around with as we try to learn each and every one of our camera settings and try to see everything we possibly can. In the past couple weeks, we have been to waterfalls, caves, beaches, the city and just about everywhere in-between. Yesterday's hike, however, has been one of my favorite places we've visited thus far. You can probably see why...

old okinawa

A few highlights from this past weekend's adventures at Shurijo Castle. A friend and I spent an entire day exploring the island; it was an amazing day full of fun photography, laughing, and just trekking around town. Of course these few snapshots couldn't fully encompass the beauty that exists on this island, but it is still worth sharing. The more I see here in Okinawa the more I fall in love with this unique and exotic place. I often still find myself in disbelief that I live here - so different and far from home.

a day of trekking in my backyard (well, almost)

I know, I am a bit overdue on my posts, but I am very excited to share today's adventures. I had an amazing day of exploring, albeit by foot within a 2-mile radius of where I live, though I probably walked about 7. It was just me and my camera. I will also mention that it was hot and humid as all get-out. 

Aside from the uncomfortable weather, I loved viewing the town from a different perspective and am going to make it a priority to walk more. I saw so many interesting things. It made me realize how easy it is to be disconnected from our environment when we are constantly on the go, rarely taking time to observe and just appreciate the small details...there is so much beauty that is so easily overlooked. Here are a few of the treasures from today's adventures.