Well, this year we had a fun-filled, busy Christmas. On Christmas day, we were the local USO and 28 people plus kids and 2 additional dogs came over for Christmas lunch. We started out inviting the single soldiers in Scott's office, but then it just kept growing. It was really fun to spend time with friends, relax and enjoy each other's company. Scott made his famous smoked pork butt with raspberry chipotle sauce. This left me to make loaded mashed potatoes, garlic bread, and mini-sausage muffins. I usually tell guests not to worry about bringing something, but this year, I took the help gladly...I just don't have enough dishes for all that food! We ate and ate, and ended the night with a fire and s'mores.
The next morning we left early for Hiroshima and Miyajima. We left about 5:30 to catch the Shinkansen (bullet train) and were in Hiroshima by 11:00. The first day we saw the Shukkei-en, a beautiful garden.
Then we went to see Hiroshima Castle.
And we ended the day at the Peace Park. It was amazing to see the A-bomb dome and tour the museum. It was worth the 5 hour train ride.
On the second day we went to Miyajima Island where we spent the day at the Itsukushima Shrine. It is built totally on the water. We went early and were able to be there at high tide and avoid the crowds. For both of us, it was the best thing we have done in Japan.
