As I packed up my belongings in Tokyo, said good bye to my partners, customers, and good friends, I could not help feeling very sad. I have been in Japan since 1997, and while I know I will be back some day, I could not help feel emotional at the parties, and while on the train looking at the cherry trees in full bloom. This is a great time of year in Japan, and I will miss it, and everyone that has made it special.

That feeling of sadness was soon overcome by the excitement of knowing that I am now UNEMPLOYEED and HOMELESS!!!!!!!!!

Why do I say that with a smile on my face? I guess its because I am now living out of a backpack for the next 4 months? or because I am off on the trip of a life time? or because I dont have a MOBILE PHONE and NO ONE CAN REACH ME?? maybe...

So, now comes the fun part. 4 months of uninterrupted adventure. Mexico, Grand Cayman, Countries where Americans are not supposed to go (?), Costa Rica, Ecuador, Bolivia, Croatia, Czech, Germany, India...I CAN NOT WAIT!!!

The going away parties in Tokyo and Seattle were great, it was so nice to get a friendly send off...Good luck, good health and GOOD RIDDANCE!! Were the common themes....

Attached are some pictures from the parties in Tokyo!

Keep coming back for pictures and stories from the field.