2008, an interesting year but now that I look back on some of the things that happened... I am glad it is over.

It is now 2009, the year of chances. That having been said, there are some things I must give up on in order to move forward in my life.
One of the things I am hoping to achieve is to become a member of the Takeda army in Kofu, Japan. No this isn't a real standing army anymore. The Takeda fell from prominence during the Japanese Sengoku Era. It would be nice to march down the main street of Kofu in a Samurai's armor.
Number two is to continue improving my karate skills. I want to be able to gain my third degree brown belt by the end of the year so that I can prepare for my black belt tests next year. This means I must really settle down and focus.
Number three, during my trip to Kofu, I will take my girl to Tokyo and propose at Tokyo Tower. So what if it is cliche... I don't give a damn. I want it to be memorable for her and I will make sure that it is. However, the problem with doing this is her ex lives in Tokyo. I know the chances of running into are slim to none. However, the irony is that after she broke up, he came to Sasebo to propose many times. She turned him down each time and now I am about to go to his "house" and do the same thing... except I will succeed!
Number four, I will compete in the Kimono competition again and this time I will win! I allowed myself to get overconfident and I got fourth. Never again will I fall so short!
And finally, I want to enjoy 09 for all it is worth. I need to change some of the things I do, but overall I will become a better person.

So, I hope everyone had a Happy New Year and I hope you are all looking forward to this year as much as me.