seriousaura

Copenhagen was wonderful. We went to the Sakura festival and then wandered around the Tivoli Gardens. My father and I looked in a few bookstores while my mother perused various shops. While we did return to Germany with many books, I also had a nice portion of new clothing. Sometimes I rather think my mother wished she had a girl instead.

As always, Munich was gorgeous. I would have loved to go climbing, but I think I'll do so this summer on a mountain in the south.

(ooc: strikes deleted)

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 )

It feels a bit strange to be in Tokyo rather than Munich, but also refreshing. Connecticut was nice. There were many books there that I wish to add to my personal collection, but unless the library wishes to relinquish its hold, I believe I will have to admire them from afar.

Buenos Aires was quite a bit more interesting. I would have gladly stayed past closing to continue reading. Thankfully, I made sure to leave enough room in my carry-on for the purchases I knew I would make. There is nothing quite like a new book. I felt at home in El Ateneo. It reminded me of my offices and the library at home in Munich.

The flights home were of little consequence. I read or translated most of the time. I am thinking about picking up a new language or a rarer dialect of one I already know. I could always stand to brush up Danish, since Copenhagen is one of my favourite places in the world.

Seiichi. When will you be having your housewarming get together? I hesitate calling it a party because the precise definitions can be so skewed. Regardless of the event, I picked up something for you and Sanada (separately) while I was in Argentina. I hope you received the email about art I found. Admittedly, I am unsure if there is anything with which your mother would be interested.

Oishi. I have not seen much of you since I returned. Perhaps we can have dinner some time when you are not so busy.

After graduation, I feel the need to peruse the shelves of both El Ateneo Grand Splendid in Buenos Aires and the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library at Yale University. I'm rather struck by the beauty of El Ateneo and am quite tempted to do something similar in Japan. Of course, locating an abandoned theater for restoring can occur after I have settled in.

Oishi, how is your cold? Not that I buy that excuse whatsoever. I hope Arthur has been a help to you and Ohtori.

(ooc: strikes deleted)

Munich: mostly enjoyable. Paris: wonderful. Even though it rained, the celebrations didn't get stopped any. I did read reports of vandalism occurring during the festivities. At least they didn't start until after we went to the Louvre. Of course, I rather like the Louvre and was able to view a few items being restored. I learned a few things which I sent on to the restoration department of the firm. Brought back a few things I found in a back alley bookstore to work on.

Unfortunately, we weren't able to get to Vienna or Copenhagen over this break. Perhaps the next one. This summer, I'd like to try climbing Rishiri-dake or Asahi-dake in Hokkaido. However, I'll have to wait to finalize any plans until I know what the summer work load will be like.

My grades were superb, especially in history and the various languages I am taking. Though, my Spanish isn't quite as good as my French. I will probably work in Spanish for a little bit to enhance my understanding.

I was able to get caught up on Hetalia and finished Miracle Train on the flight back to Japan. I knew Shinjuku was right about the conductor. Though, now I'll need a new show to start watching when I have spare time.

Finals are in a week. I have no doubts that I will do well on them, nonetheless, I've decided to up my studying. As usual, I'll hole myself up in the library. Though, I would not be adverse to a study group regarding certain subjects.

This year I'll be skipping the Masquerade Ball. The window for getting a lot of visiting done between the end of semester and Christmas is rather tight. Even if I did go, I don't think I would appreciate the select number of girls who find it necessary to poke at my cheek in a poor attempt to get me to smile.

Sengoku, watching Miracle Train with you was quite enjoyable. Though, I am still unsure why you think I am similar to Shinjuku.

Kikumaru, when is the snowball war?

Gifts have been bought and have various arrival dates. They all should arrive by the 14th. I'm hopeful that they will be well received.

( Private )