A gathered group of alumni enjoyed sushi on New Year's day (I enjoyed a delicious cheeseburger!) In this video, each person took a turn choosing his or her favorite piece of sushi. If more than 4 people wanted it, they would play the Japanese version of Rock, Paper, Scissors, which is commonly used to settle nearly all disputes. And man, do they get into the game!

Just for Jess & Elissa... Meat on a Stick!

Remember that extreme craving I had for meat on a stick when we were in Chinatown in NYC? Well, I took these pics just for you girls! It's a common item among vendors at festivals - I'm telling you the truth! Now I have the photos to prove it. These are from the Shizuoka University School Festival in November. As I waited in line and chowed down my delicious meat sticks, I couldn't help but smile at the memories of our trip. I just remembered that tiny old woman in the bathroom of the restaurant! Oh, the memories!!! I miss you girls!

Akemashite Omedetou Gozaimasu!!

Happy New Year!!! I celebrated with my friend Kanako and her parents by eating soba noodles and other traditional New Year's foods. Later her friend Anna took us to the harbor where we watched a fireworks show at midnight. Then we visited a shrine. Everyone goes to the shrine at the beginning of the year to pray for blessings for the coming year. It was a really interesting and an important part of Japanese culture to experience. My heart was saddened and I was compelled to pray as knees were bowed before false gods. I was thankful for such a great New Year's experience- definitely the most exciting New Year's I've ever celebrated!


People write prayers on blocks of wood and hang them on this wall at the shrine.

Celebrating with My Family...

Praise Jesus for technology as I was able to join my family for their Christmas celebration & open gifts with them via Skype!

Christmas Retreat in the Mountains...

On Christmas Day, Elbert, Aileen & I rode by train to a Bible Camp for our Christmas Retreat. We joined other mid-term Navigator staff serving around Japan for 3 days of rest, relaxation, fellowship & celebration. I found our time together to be very encouraging, and was thankful for the company of good friends since I couldn't be home for Christmas.