So while time is short, I am hoping to make the most of it.

Oh! It certainly sounds like you are doing so. Well done.

I went to the beach, and went swimming and stuff, since I have visitors.

Sounds pleasant, Laura.

Good luck, Dana.

Had a great lunch visit with newish friend, and we made plans to get together before we left so we wouldn't wait eight months again, ha! Plus, we met in a playwriting class and then ended up in the same acting class and totally hit it off, so we are going to be writing accountability partners.

brenda, your trip sounds fantastic! And with people you enjoy as well. I'm so glad you get some extra time there.

Otter cafe beats stroller owls

The beautiful thing is, they apparently coexist without strife

It's a wonderland of small predators! I don't know how I missed going to fox island while I was here.

BABY PIG CAFE!!!!

The piglets were cute with their bristles and waggy tails and snoots and little trot.

I enjoyed the otters more, though, I have to say.

Had a great lunch visit with newish friend, and we made plans to get together before we left so we wouldn't wait eight months again, ha! Plus, we met in a playwriting class and then ended up in the same acting class and totally hit it off, so we are going to be writing accountability partners.

I love that for you! And sj's new lunch companion too. It's tricky making new friends as we get older.

Today's my last day in Japan, and I'm in no flurry or hurry to go do something I'm afraid I've missed. Rather I'm probably just going to go to my favorite places, and get some travel gifts out of the capsule toy machines.

Back in November I bought tix for a sketchfest event where Peaches Christ (local drag legend) would be interviewing Tim Curry live. Then belatedly realized I'd be in Japan for the event (which is tonight).

So then I thought, well I'll give the tickets to Nicole who's housesitting for me, as she's a gender-blurry gal in a drag king troupe who would appreciate that. But I couldn't find the tickets in my email or my phone, and didn't have time to deal with the box office before I left.

But just like magic I got a prompting email from Sketchfest that said, "Hey, your event is coming up. Here's your tickets!" And I was able to transfer them to her, and she's going tonight.

Hooray for Nicole getting to use your tickets!