Japan (日本) Week 8

So Kathie had to go, but I knew I would get to see her in a week - so I wasn't too sad.

Also, I had Pat Hanlon with me this week - She is very knowledgeable about Japan our business and pretty much everything. So it was great to absorb as much information as

possible from her this week.

On Monday, we took the Shinkansen to Osaka. I was able to get a decent shot of Mt. Fuji. I also loved how all the buildings look slanted because of the speed of the train.

In one of the pictures, I am with Pat and my translator Kazuyo (her English is great) outside one of the hospitals.

We had part of one day to see 3 temples on Nara. Also one of the coolest things I have ever see was in Nara. The deer are all over the place and are considered sacred. But I was also to see and experience, that when you walk up to the deer and bow, they bow back!! No kidding, check out the video at the bottom.

The Largest temple in Nara had a giant Buddha inside.

One of the pictures is another tasty treats. They are all kinds of things soaking in a very hot broth-like liquid. It's call Oden.

On Thursday, we traveled to Okinawa and saw several hospitals on Thursday and Friday.

On Saturday morning, I was able to visit the Shurijo Castle, It was really cool and sat on the highest point of the island.

Saturday night Pat gave a great lecture to a groups of 30 MEs (Perfusionists) followed by a nice dinner. I really enjoyed visiting with them.

Sunday I flew from Okinawa to Narita then Narita to LA then LA to Home - YEAH!! But was flying for about 24 hours.

My family was waiting for me at the airport - It was Awesome too see them all again!!

We then went to my parents house for a Thanksgiving dinner with my brothers and sisters and all their families.

After that I went to my daughters Young Women's program where they displayed their talents from the past year.

It's really great to be back home with family for the week of Thanksgiving - I know it's going to go quick!!