I just celebrated my birthday...  actually, I spent a good part of my birthday on a plane flying from Seattle to Tokyo, and by the time I landed my birthday was almost over.  But I did treat myself to a cheesecake on the plane!

I am in Japan en route to Taiwan where I will be spending the holidays.  I met with our Japan academic team the last few days to go over the Imagine Cup 2005 finals.  The team is revved up to welcome everyone... we went through the details of the Awards Ceremony yesterday.  It is amazing how even though Brazil seems like yesterday, we are already in the midst of heavy planning for the finals in August... and pretty soon we will begin the planning for Imagine Cup 2006!

I love Japan.  This time I spent in Time Square in Shin-ju-ku, and the entire square is lit up with beautiful holiday lights in blue and white colors.  I used to live in New York City, which is known for the festive holiday lights... but I would have to say that Japan's decoration rivals New York.

Last night I went to Misono for Kobe beef.  Oh each bite was like eating a stick of butter.  I will probably have to work out extra hard to shed the fat but it was worth every bite!

I am currently in Narita, waiting to get on a flight to Taiwan.  I am looking forward to seeing my relatives and spending the holidays with them!

Well... I hope everyone has a fantastic break!