It was my (Roy’s) personal goal to put up a Christmas tree in California. We can check this off from our bucket list. We bought this tree at a local Christmas tree lot. We then bought some decoration, enough to be found here in the US.
Shinzen Japanese Garden
Last Sunday we visited the Shinzen Japanese Garden (officially called Shinzen Friendship Garden). The garden was initiated by local Japanese Americans around 1972. The construction started in 1975 and the garden opened in 1981. It’s a really beautiful and quiet place to walk. The garden is divided in four areas, each for every season (winter, spring, summer and fall). I guess when we visit the garden this spring, it will be at its best with all plants in bloom. I’ll definitely post a blog by then!
Training & Running
Also, we met our new personal trainer. His name is Austin. He proudly served in the army and now it’s his goal to let us die three times a week 🥵
On the other days, Roy goes for a run in the neighborhood in the morning. We live in such a nice area and running is pretty easy here because all roads are developed in a grid with mostly square blocks.
Just a couple of pictures from what he sees during a run:
Getting the show on the road
On Thursday we could get our own car at CarMax. Thomas V. was ready for his pick-up!
The people were very nice and the service was great. Our hostess had plenty of the time to explain everything. By the way, when you buy a car they take you through a complete process and show you if the car was ever involved in an accident. They also check if there is an open safety recall by the manufacturer and if your odometer is reliable.
After signing the paperwork for the sale, registration of the car and the insurance, we finally walked to our new car.
“I saw her this morning, and she looks beautiful!,” our hostess said. I kinda loved that.
Buttoms-up!
Of course, we explored the night life as well. Although we have to conclude that drinking alcohol is pretty expensive here but we certainly enjoyed some beers at local breweries and bars with live music.
Do you want to get even a better impression? Here are some videos: