Nagasaki Sunday

On March 9, during a trip down to Sasebo for work, I took a weekend side trip to Nagasaki. My original plans were to go on Saturday the 8th, but my plans for Friday night with some of the guys from work carried over until early Saturday morning, so I thought it better to postpone until Sunday.

Unfortunately for me, Saturday turned out to be the better weathered day, sunny and moderately warm. Sunday, on the other hand, was just downright gray and wet. But I made the most of the day, catching an early train from Sasebo Station and exiting a little over an hour later in the northern part of Nagasaki.

Up north is where most of the atomic bomb historical sites are located, since the epicenter was in that general vicinity. I hit those areas first, since I knew that they would be educational, but not necessary uplifting for my spirits. It was also raining heavily in the morning and I figured that I'd be safe from the wet weather inside the museums.

Around lunch time, I headed down to Chinatown, but was too hungry to wait until I got there to eat. Instead, I headed to a conbini (convenience store) near the peace memorial areas and grabbed a quick bite. Once I got to Chinatown, I basically just walked the streets looking at the interesting architecture, colors, stores, and restaurants. I was also able to visit a Chinese influenced temple there, which I rather enjoyed.

Afterwards, I visited a couple of the local churches. Churches are fairly uncommon in this Buddhist / Shinto country, as one might expect. But Nagasaki's history is interwoven with Dutch and other European influences, so churches and cathedrals tend to dot the skyline.

All in all, Nagasaki was an interesting place to visit, despite the rain. I'd love the chance to head back there again sometime, if the opportunity presents itself. Nearly forgot to mention that all the pics are in the Gallery dated 4/20/2008.

Our New Home

With interest rates at nearly all-time lows and home prices dropping at historic rates, we decided to make a low bid offer on a small but cozy foreclosed property. Our offer was accepted last week and we just completed the escrow process and signed all the necessary paperwork. I know it's a fixer upper, but we just love the place. Here are some pictures:

Josh at our "Guard Shack"

Our Scary Front Entrance Statues

Nicki and Josh at our "Southeast Asian-Themed Patio"

The Lake House

Our Main House and Lookout Tower

Since this property was in such a deserted condition,
they threw it in at no extra charge!!!

Okay, okay... April Fools!!! I know April Fools Day was yesterday, but you were probably expecting a prank then. Anyway, if you haven't figured it out already, the pics are the remaining shots from our December Thailand trip... this time taken in and around Bangkok. The entire set is in the Gallery, dated 04/02/2008, or you can click here for quick access.