And—the flowers are still standing!

And so am I.

There are no words or pictures I can post to fully express the awful reality of what's happened here in Japan. (The international news media has done that well enough.) Being so close to the worst of it—the difference between being where I am and where so many are suffering a mere matter of miles—I can't help but feel a sense of survivor's guilt. All I can do is keep on doing what I do the best that I can, making myself available when the time comes to rebuild, getting the word out and keeping those I care about informed, and clinging to my sense of humor, if nothing else, to stay sane. And so I shall.

Food, fuel, and supplies are in increasing demand now, and while getting those things to Japan may be difficult, one can always donate, even if it's just a little. Anything helps. Here are some options to consider:

1) Global Giving

2) Habitat for Humanity

3) Red Cross of Japan

4) Crash Japan

5) Direct Relief

Of course, prayers and thoughts are always welcome, and don't cost a thing! Keep 'em comin'!

Because it's all right…

And we'll fix you!

Saikou Sendai!

Went to Sendai in Miyagi Prefecture with "the Hero of Oirase"—a man they call James—and our office hosa (sub-chief; not-to-mention, my favorite person in the office) Izumiyama-san and his wife during the first weekend in February. We took in an 89ers bj-league basketball game, and then some. It kicked more than a bit of a donkey's ass! Don't believe me…?

On the subway in Sendai, the Hero of Oirase catches me grinning in anticipation.

Great shot mid-game as one of the Sendai 89ers' forwards tosses up a tough leaner. 

The 89ers' starting center slams one home with authority.

Here are some court-side highlights:

Final score. Sendai 91, Okinawa 90. Clutch free throws indeed!

Our post-game meal was at a great little izakaya where we ate too much and laughed just enough. The sake came served to us as you see above, traditionally overflowing the shot glass into the square wooden container, or masu.

Then we went out to fool around and shoot some "ghost-image" photos. I've fallen over stiff at the sight of Mikiko-san's light-speckled, huggable spirit.

"River Spirit"

"My Spirit Climbing"

"I'M PALED by The Twilight"

"Spiritual Hi-5"

"Put 'em Up"

"Spirit Punk'd"

"Spirit Crossing"

I think I'm headed in the Wright direction. What do you think?