Everyone wish my mom a Happy Birthday!

This is the woman that made me. Not an easy task. She's indestructible. The strongest person I know.

Some of you don't know this, but my mom played a large part in my decision to move to Japan (and no, it wasn't because I wanted to get as far away from her as possible).

One day in December or January, a few short weeks after my first Japan visit with Pat, I was driving in my car contemplating what to do with my life. After much self-deliberation and realizing how mundane Vancouver was, I finally told myself that I wanted to live in Japan. However, the decision wasn't actually all that final. I still needed to do one thing: I phoned my mom.

My mom's response would make or break my trip to Japan. It may seem strange, but me moving all the way to Japan ultimately depended on whether my mom said Yes or No. I was 75% sure I was going to do it, but I really needed her blessing do know that I was making the right decision. When she told me - without hesitation - to go for it, I was slightly surprised. But at that moment, it made me realize that after a lifetime of constant nagging and (s)mothering, she still just wanted to make sure that my happiness was a priority, even if it meant that her only son would be living halfway across the world.

30 days

...until I get to see this special little someone again

Aye Carumba! Pat! There's a wrestling themed cafe/bar in my hood!

When are we going?

Yes, the poll is a gimmick. I don't know how it works myself. The percentages don't add up but I'm just glad to see people voting. Personally, I voted for more Simpsons quotes.

Woodhands @ JZ Brat Shibuya

As expected, another party rocking set from Woodhands. They definitely left their mark on Tokyo and I expect to see them again real soon.

Velours

Woodhands (Dan and Paul) are currently in Tokyo and took part in a Canadian music showcase on Wednesday, rubbing elbows with delegates and Japanese music execs alike. I had the fortunate opportunity to house the duo for 4 of their 6 nights in the city. Dan snored like he was choking on a chicken bone and Paul occupied 3 square metres of my precious floor. If you want to get their side of the story, they are submitting daily blogs for Now Magazine in Toronto. Each of their first entries can be found here http://www.nowtoronto.com/daily/story.cfm?content=165926 and here http://www.nowtoronto.com/daily/story.cfm?content=166016.

I didn't get to see their show (opening for-ahem-Bedouin Soundclash), but I will get to see them play an all night indie rock dance party on Saturday night.

For the past few days I felt like I was on vacation-probably because I canceled a class to hang out with them. But regardless, it's always good to have friends in town and do some intense bonding with these two crazy kids (Paul who I've actually only hung out with twice before).

Here's what we've been up to so far:

A stranger took our picture.

Velours bar.

Paul picked a bad fortune so he had to tie it to this line. Dan solemnly reflecting, as he possibley picked the worst fortune ever.

Paul and I shared many moments on this night, including THE original McDonald's apple pie.

Obligatory temple visit with label rep Trevor (and a couple beers).

Paul and friends.

Enjoying good times (but secretly counting the days until they move to their hotel).

Obligatory Barack Obama Victory Post

A Change Gonna Come