A few of my favorite things from the past 2 weeks....

I've been away visiting family and friends in Tokyo and Beijing for the past 2 weeks.  Here is a list of some of my favorite things from those two fabulous cities:

-Gonpachi Sushi in Shibuya.  Apparently, this location inspired Quentin Tarantino, to create a similar setting for Kill Bill.

-Omakase at Kaikaya: By the Sea (We had the most delicious Christmas Dinner at this cute little Izakaya.  The chef is amazing and EVERY one of his choices were spot on!)

- Comiket 77: the fan-drawn manga and cosplay convention at Tokyo Big Sight was a great place to take photos...

-Sou Sou shoes (I love their modern take on the Tabi!)

-Okonomiyaki (my most favorite food from Japan!) 

- Muji!!!

-Yokohama's Ramen museum (even the mini bowls were huge!  So delicious!)

-No Man's Land exhibit in the former admin buildings of the Tokyo French Embassy.

-798 Art District in Beijing

-Napapijri's Marat down jacket (which was the perfect coat for 50 degree weather in Tokyo and 15 degree weather in Beijing...plus it folds up and fits into its left pocket!)

-Holidays spent with ALL the members of my family.  We live all over the world so its very difficult for everyone to be in the same place at the same time.  I feel very fortunate that we were able to pull it off this year.

-Lastly, now that all the gifts have been unwrapped and the paper recycled, here is an interesting list of packaging facts from Mother Jones to ponder for the next year's holiday spectacular!