seriousaura

It's quite a good thing that I asked my secretary to schedule weekly massages in the afternoons. My body is still not used to the movements that class makes me go through. One of the women suggested yoga as well to help with flexibility. I admit the idea of turning myself into a human pretzel is not ideal, but neither is the thought that I'm not using body to its full potential. A strong mind is not best served with a weak body.

I've decided to spend Golden Week in Copenhagen with my parents. There is a bookstore I have been meaning to peruse, but always seem to get caught up in other things when I'm there. We'll be there in time for the Copenhagen Sakura Festival. There is going to be a Judo demonstration on Saturday that I'm quite interested in. Yanagi, Arthur, I would like you both to come, but you don't have to if you have other plans or are uninterested. If you choose to come, the apartment will be fine in our absence.

Belated congratulations on your victory, Echizen. I didn't watch the finals, but I was able to catch your quarterfinal match. You played well.

I confirmed my trip to Munich with my parents. Though, I'll be flying into meet them and spend a few days with my mother's side of the family in Hannover. Particularly to go to the Weihnachtsmarkt. I haven't been to it in years. I suppose that's because I've always enjoyed Munich more. This year I plan on going to the Christkindlmarkt at Marienplatz.

My parents have insisted I try to relax and not work as many days while in Munich. I do want to visit the offices there at least once. I can work from my study at the estate, I suppose. The library there is much more familiar.

Atobe, are you going to Germany for Christmas or are you and your parents staying in Tokyo?

( Yanagi & Arthur )

I have finally finished both the end of year fiscal reports and a book that had nothing to do with work. Granted, it was something I had translated a few years previous, but I wasn't reading for enjoyment then. I chose The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet's Next in its original language, mainly to test myself. A good story, I think I might attempt the rest of the trilogy if time allows.

Father emailed me a status report on the offices in Munich. Things are running smoothly without my overseeing day-to-day operations. Though, I should make a trip back soon if only to appease mother from worrying incessantly about how much food I'm eating.

Atobe. I've received word that you are coming back from your retreat. Dinner, perhaps, when you have settled back in?

Seiichi. Would you be available for tennis some time next week?

(ooc: strikes deleted)

Yukimura. I told you I would not lose again. I find the score to be rather fitting. I suppose though all our matches will end up that way. We'll definitely have to play in Germany. I'll make sure the courts are clear.

Shall we continue to study during midterms or do you think you will do fine?

--

I been playing through a games called Dissidia on the PSP I had Yanagi procure for me so that I could get a better idea for the type of thing I might be working on. During a recent conference call, I received a better indication of what I would be doing. I'll be discussing things with my father on Sunday. Even though it is my firm, I value his opinion, especially now that he is working so adeptly in such a vast market.

There might be need to discuss collaboration with American firms. We shall see what the next quarter brings.

My mother called shortly after Atobe left this evening. I think she assumed that Yanagi would answer. I threw her off guard apparently. She informed me that my father was doing well in the position I've entrusted him with. Of course, I already knew that by checking the accounts daily. I admit surprise at how adept he is. I think my grandfather knew he would do best not as the heir.

Trimmed up the bonsai after the phone call. It was quite calming.

This past weekend has allowed me to almost get caught up on work. I have about three manuscripts left to go through.

--

( Private )

Christkindl Markt was nice, although the lack of snow rather caused the atmosphere to be lacking. The weather in Munich has been shifting between rain and somewhat cloudy. I was hoping for snow when we make the trek to Neuschwanstein, but I see the snow is only supposed to hit after we have left for Paris. Even there, the schedule is for rain. I suppose I should be thankful we had plenty of it in Japan before we left for break.

Thank you, everyone, for the gifts. Sengoku, yours amused me greatly. Saeki, Oshitari. I almost think you believe I am unstylish. Regardless, they came in handy for an impromptu board meeting I had. Ryoma, Atobe, Oishi, Kabaji. Your gifts will be very helpful in the future. Sanada, I suppose this means I'll turn your gift against you at practices in the spring. I look forward to it. Ohtori, the music was a good choice. Yanagi...I'm not even going to ask.

The flight thus far have been problem free. We are taking the train to Paris. I think Karupin has had enough of flying for awhile, but there's only one more for when we return on the 2nd. There simply wasn't enough time to head to Vienna and Copenhagen over break. Not with family obligations. Speaking of which, they went a lot better than I expected.

Hope the holidays are pleasant for you all.

Thank you all for the birthday wishes and gifts. I appreciate it more than you realize greatly.

( Private )

(ooc: strikes deleted)

I've returned. Kyushu at this time of year is beautiful, but my trip there was hardly enjoyable.

I apologize for the commotion I caused Tuesday in preparation for my trip. I was rather loud, which is unlike me, and I hate to say that my attitude wasn't the greatest.

Atobe. Echizen. Thank you.