Christian Surfers-Japan president David, and Osaka leader Toshi invited me to a surf trip on the West Coast of the main island. I gladly accepted, although it called for a 3 a.m. wake up call. This sunrise photo is well after much coffee and many road miles.. 

Common view of rural Japan 

Japanese Naval base along the route. 

When we arrived we found a head high swell waiting on us. I was happy enough just getting out of the city to scenery like this... 

When we arrived here, there were 2 guys out. Many spots are quite crowded and just beach break style waves, much less quality. So needless to say we were jumping up and down in the parking lot... 

Japan has many of these cement barriers to keep the boats safe in the harbor; it just so happens to make really good waves sometimes too. This is on West coast of the main island. 

West side of Japan, a left hand wave called "Rainbow Point" 

Happy crew after a good day at Rainbow Point (name of this surf spot). Center guy is the 'boss' of this spot. He told us to come up b/c the waves were very good, which is rare this time of year.  

All the school kids have the same hat and backpacks. They usually are dressed in uniforms as well. 

Recently Mark and I went to a place called Nara Park near Osaka. This park has TONS of deer just roaming about. They will come right up to you and steal any snacks you may have. 

More Deer.... 

Japanese Easter eggs!! 

We dyed Easter eggs today...Thanks Maria!!! 

Easter

Happy Easter... We hope you all enjoy your weekend as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This weekend I am reading in John about the arrest, beating, death, and resurrection of our Lord. Words cannot express the thankfulness I have that He was willing to die this horrible death to give those life who will just believe in Him and accept His forgiveness. Praise God for Sunday when He defeated death and opened the door for us to defeat death as well through Him. He is an amazing God. I hope you all praise Him for what He has done. He knew everyone of our names and every sin we would commit when He laid down His life for all who would believe in Him. WOW....AMEN.

Here is a view of the city....you can also see some Cherry Blossoms on the left. 

Yesterday was my 29th birthday. Thank you for all the emails and cards!! We went and saw the monkeys on Minoh Mountain (OF COURSE) and here is a little guy on my sided view mirror. 

We completed my birthday night eating at Outback Grill in Osaka. It was a great day!! 

More Springtime pictures.... 

Here is a pretty cool clock at a park near our home. There are flowers and cherry blossums everywhere now!