Xmas in Tokyo!!!

I landed in Tokyo and headed straight to Aly's apartment. (She's back in Boston for the holiday so she's letting me house-sit. Score!!!) (But of course I'd much rather have her here to play with me.)

Her nearby neighborhood of Roppongi was all lit up and pretty.

Within minutes of arriving, I was picked up by Aly's friends Tamra and Colleen.

Colleen, a fellow photographer, also lives in the fabulous Roppongi Hills area. After walking around all the fancy shops and taking photos of all the Kawaii things (Kawaii (かわいい [kaw͍ai.i], Means, "lovable", "cute", or "adorable") is the quality of cuteness in the context of Japanese culture. The exclamation of "Kawaii!!!" is usually accompanied by high-pitched squeals or giggles.) We headed up to her apartment.

Her 30th floor apartment featured stunning views of "Downtown" Shinjuku...

We celebrated Xmas and new friendships with cheeses and champagnes.

I arrived late, but my amazing hostess made me a delicious Xmas meal of turkey and stuffing. I was famished and didn't even think to take a picture until I had devoured half my plate.

It was so unneccessary, but such an incredible hostess move...

Amazing that you can be a stranger in a different country and still meet wonderful people that make you immediately feel right at home...

...and are ready to take silly pictures with you in fun costumes.

Merry Christmas!!!!

So excited to be back in Japan!!!!