Hello again, I almost didn't get this page finished. I've been really swamped this week, in addition to keeping a very concerned eye on my former home of Japan since Friday. Almost all my friends have emailed or otherwise let me know they are OK so I'm feeling a bit more relieved. Still I would encourage you all to donate to the Red Cross and try to help Japan recover after the tragedy of Fridays Earthquake. Canadians wishing to help support relief efforts underway are encouraged to contribute by:

• Donating online
• Calling 1-800-418-1111
• By texting the word ASIA to 30333 to make a one-time donation of $5*
• By contacting their local Red Cross office. Cheques should be made payable to the Canadian Red Cross, earmarked “Japan Earthquake/Asia-Pacific Tsunami” and mailed to the Canadian Red Cross National Office, 170 Metcalfe Street, Suite 300, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 2P2.

Americans wishing to help support relief efforts underway are encouraged to contribute by:

• Go to www.redcross.org
• Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

  During my time in Japan I only ever experienced two earthquakes and neither of them were very strong. My heart still goes out to Japan and all it's peoples.  I am hopeful that Japan can find the same spirit they used to rebuild their nation in 1950 and apply it today. It's important to note that the James' are living in Yamanashi which is West of Tokyo and quite a bit South rom Sendai. The story is also set during my time there in 2004, so don't expect any topical current event continuity. For anyone reading this in Japan, hang in there! 日本が強い国だよ。がんばってよ！