Briefly, and unfortunately to the detriment of my telling the tale of Roppongi, Round 2: Roppongi Resurrection, I have a couple notes from the Asian front.

First of all, I've signed up for the Nagano Marathon, which takes place in a couple months. My philanthropic apato-mate, Michelle, suggested I try to run for some sort of charity. This idea is brilliant in its obvious simplicity for 2 reasons. Primarily, this way if I become "that westener bringing up the rear of the pack with an unnaturally red face and tired calves," I'll at least be able to detract from my sloth by citing a higher calling. Secondly, somebody else will benefit, no? I was thinking of contacting one of the tsunami relief funds, but would something like UNICEF be a safer bet? Any suggestions on whom to contact and how? In advance "domo arigato" - Styx

Other pressing news is that I now drink corn soup out of a can while waiting outside for the train in a chilly station -- this from a girl who once believed canned corn to be the rough equivalent of canned vomit.