The Dowlings Come to Okinawa

A few weeks ago we were lucky enough to have our good friends, Tim and Marie Dowling, visit us for a long weekend!! Tim and Marie were taking a two week tour around Japan and spent a few days of it with us.

Mike and Tim were the bestest of friends at the Academy. They have remained great friends ever since their college days and were even best men in each other's weddings. Tim flies F-15E's at Seymour Johnson AFB in North Carolina. Because they are both active duty, they don't get to hang out very often. It's even more rare that the four of us get to spend time together. So you can imagine our excitement to have them here for a few days!!

Tim and Marie arrived on a Friday and spent their first night with us at the Officers Club. There was a Spouses' Crud Tournament that night so the club was packed. We hung out, shared a few beers, and I played some crud while the guys heckled the refs. As the night wore on, we decided it was a good night to karaoke! So we headed to Gate 1 Karaoke for a few hours of singing our hearts out. Even Tim sang a few songs.

Most of Saturday was spent recovering on the couch, but we did get out to eat sushi for dinner. Sunday we were able to get off base and explore more of the island. We started at the Japanese Naval Underground. I know I've highlighted this museum in past posts and visits, but Mike has never been. Tim and Mike both had to watch their heads as they ducked through the tunnels.

From there we visited the Shuri Castle, a historical location in Okinawa. It was the perfect location for a group shot. Our day of history and exploration was topped off with dinner at Uroko's, our favorite restaurant.

Monday was a girlie day! Mike and Tim went to the gym, hung out at home, and did other manly things while Marie and I pampered ourselves and shopped! First stop was Cocok's for pedicures and pretty nail art. It was a relaxing hour and a half in recliners with a gorgeous of the ocean.

After a few more stops like the 100 Yen store and the commissary, we stopped at Jusco to find some good Engrish shirts and other fun finds.

It was an awesome visit with good friends. I really love having Tim and Marie here to hang out, catch up, and make new memories. Thank you, Dowlings, for visiting us!! We had a fantastic time and miss you so much!! We look forward tovisiting you in Vegas in the future!! Congrats!!