New layout of the month. ^_^ Let's all give a big huzzah for the Naruto manga. Because it's cool and Skuld loves it. ^_^
Ed is coming over here tomorrow to interview with Harvard Medical School...and hang out with me for my birthday. ^_^ *huggles the clone*
So about the MIT-Japan Program's retreat...
Endicott House is absolutely wonderful. It's this old victorian-style mansion, and it's totally beautiful inside. ^_^ Too bad I didn't get to stay in any of the rooms there, unlike Mel and like most of my confederates, I was excited to the Brook Center which is the building next to the mansion. Not even half as nice. ._. They don't love me. *sobs*
We did a lot of work during the retreat, mostly listening to lectures from Pat Gercik on how to conduct business and casual relations with the Japanese (with much emphasis on the peculiar ritual of creating and maintaining good relationships), and roleplaying a Keiretsu scandal simulation game based off a real case that happened in 1993. ^_~ Skuld's group won out, of course, because we have 1337 ninja and negotiation skillz.
Got tipsy on Saturday night from a couple cans of Budweiser, and then proceeded to make a total ass out of myself by karaoke-ing to classic songs like "Bohemian Rhapsody," "It's the End of the World," "Ninja Rap," and "YATTA!"
Didn't get much sleep, but the food and company there was great. I got to know a lot of people fairly well just through the roleplay interactions and meal conversations. Food there was 4 or 5-star restuarant quality, so needless to say I have put on weight. There's food EVERYWHERE there. They put out free soda for you, and free chips/junk food snacks. =_=;; You know I just can't not eat when there's food in sight.
Overall, it was an enjoyable experience, and I learned a lot, so I am pleased. ^_^ As for my pre-weekend Friday rant...I hope that those of you who read the message have, for the most part, refrained from speaking about X this weekend. Though the ban will be lifted on Monday, I ask you guys to take a look at what's been going on in the fandom. Should you decide to go back to the fandom, be my guest. But keep my rant in mind and try not to fall into the pitfalls of the "typical X fangirl."
Thank you all for listening to me and providing a stimulating discussions within the fandom.
Cool cool