 We feel so incredibly lucky to have been safe at Depot when the earthquake hit  Japan.  As we felt the room shake and shake and shake  beneath us that afternoon, we had no idea the toll the quake(s) were  taking on other parts of the country.  We were shocked, dismayed, and  overcome with an eerie feeling as we watched the news later that night  to find out about the incomprehensible damage just slightly north of  us.
 We feel so incredibly lucky to have been safe at Depot when the earthquake hit  Japan.  As we felt the room shake and shake and shake  beneath us that afternoon, we had no idea the toll the quake(s) were  taking on other parts of the country.  We were shocked, dismayed, and  overcome with an eerie feeling as we watched the news later that night  to find out about the incomprehensible damage just slightly north of  us.
This unease persisted as we continued our trip. As we headed south to Kyoto to attempt to reconvene our travels, we couldn't help but feel like we were traveling in the wrong direction - that we should be going to North to help somehow. Unfortunately, the fears of the nuclear risks kept us away as we managed to enjoy ourselves in the south all the while feeling a bit guilty.
 
 We vowed to do what we could to help once we returned home, so here's  a start:  We're producing 5 special piggy banks for our own charity  raffle.  These cute fellers have a vibrant red dipped nose and are  individually numbered 1-5.  We're hoping to raise $2000 or more for  donation directly to the Japanese Red Cross for the earthquake relief. Tickets are only $7, so we hope you and your friends, and your  friend's friends will join in for a chance (or five) to win one of our  special piggies. Buy now through 4/11. Thank you for your support and
xoxo Jean & Dylan
 
                
              