We have been thinking about traveling to Japan for years and now we are here!

So much to discuss.

Our monorail ride into Tokyo introduced us to a very industrialized port city and as we got closer to ‘town’ 36 million / we started to understand the population density. Getting off the train we are surrounded by skyscrapers and a neat & orderly neighborhood. No trash – no junk – all very neat & clean. Checked into our hotel – no nap!!! Time to explore. We are steps ftom Tokyo Tower. Beautifully lit. Next is our first Shinto shrine. Stunning.

Now it is time for dinner. After trying to get a table – and striking out – we find a tiny cafe-10 diners, no English menu -and ravenous appetites- we get beers, dumplings & ramen – so good! All on a tiny alley. Yes! We have arrived in Tokyo.

Brightly colored garb, drumming, and dance is celebrated each year on one day on the Jardin in San Miguel. People travel far to celebrate. There is a lot of joy.

Monarch butterflies love Mexico!

They love the many beautiful milkweed varieties and special trees. They have been given their own preserve and we got a peek into their world. Photos do no justice – only provide a glimpse into the beauty.

Rode horseback part way up the mountain – fun!

Had an amazing lunch with freshly made blue corn tortillas-check out the beautiful chef on the other side of stone wall from Greg.

Exquisite Oaxacan art.

Hand carved.

Hand painted. Detail extraordinary. Each of the painted symbols are historically significant. Chevk out the detail on this coyote.

We are so fortunate to return to San Miguel (SMA) for 2.5 weeks. Cafes, shops, parks, friends – such a lovely city.

El jardin – city center is lively either mariachi, food vendors, and lots of locals enjoying it all.

We walk most everywhere. Logging 6-9 miles/day. And loving the sites along the way. Here is a glimpse of neighborhoods.

Rooftop restaurant.

Tomatillos, peppers, garlic, chapulines

Molcajete- yum!

Chapulines – chili roasted grasshoppers. The common appetizer is guacamole & chapulines. Of course I ate them and I prefer a chip!

Colleen & Mike / new buddies! Such fun !

We took a taxi out of town to a gallery. The Mask exhibit – amazing. The green paper designs on their windows – exquisite.