My new CR-Z!

On April 19th bought my first brand new car. A 2011 Honda CR-Z! Since I had no real plans to buy a car this came as somewhat of a surprise. Seeing as my 2002 Accord, Tomo-chan, was having continual problems, however, each of which led to very costly repairs, this seemed like the right thing to do. My new CR-Z, which as of yet has no name, is fully-loaded and is really, really kool and fun to drive. Needless to say I am absolutely thrilled. Still, saying goodbye to Tomoko-chan was a very sad moment for me. To be honest I cried a little. I will miss her.

Two days after buying my new car, I learned that Tomo-chan already has a buyer! Knowing that she won't be lonely makes me feel very happy. Hopefully her new owner will be able to complete the repairs she needs, and take good care of her.

Quakebook

日本語

March 11th was very frightening for my wife and I. Until March 12th, we spent the entire time doing everything we could to confirm the safety of my father- and mother-in-law living in Sendai, but due to power outages and an interruption of phone services we were unable to contact them. The next day, our friend living in Tokyo, Emiko Orimo-san decided to drive to Sendai in order to help her family. That day, Orimo-san dropped in to visit my in-laws, confirmed that they were safe and took a photo of them for us. When we received the image via email and saw their teary-eyed, smiling faces I thought it was the most beautiful photo in the world. From the bottom of my heart, I am very thank for Orimo-san's kindness.

Since the occurrence of the Great Eastern Japan Earthquake Disaster, I have been searching for a way to offer my support. Because I live in Chicago, going to the site of the disaster and providing support is impossible. Donating money to the American Red Cross was an effective method of helping, but rather than just sending monetary contributions I continue thinking about how I want to offer support to the victims living in the Tōhoku and Kantō regions that connects me to them emotionally.

On March 18th, "Our Man in Abiko" started a project for helping Japan. In order to heighten understanding and share the experiences and sentiments of the Great Earthquake's victims and their supporters, he drew upon the power of bloggers, and by combined their posts about the Great Earthquake and Tsunami, created a book. Immediately, I too sent Orimo-san's photo and my own writings to him. When my submissions were accepted, I was very happy. The book known as "Quakebook" has been quickly growing in fame and notoriety.

Now, Quakebook's the contributors are more than just everyday bloggers, celebrities are participating as well. In order for the book to be readable by people all over the world, the book is now being translated into different languages. Today, Quakebook was finished and became available for purchase. All proceeds from the sale of Quakebook will be donated to the disaster sites via the Japanese Red Cross. This is a very important project. To all readers of my blog, I kindly and humbly request that you please purchase this book.

Buy Quakebook: http://amzn.to/quakebook
For more information: http://www.quakebook.org/