I got to believe they come for rock n' roll

I've been shooting, I've been interviewing, I've been traveling, I've been writing, I've been studying!!! But I haven't had time to blog? Please, oh please, dear readers - do not feel neglected. You know, I've missed you very much. Here are some photographs to express my appreciation for your continued interest:

I can't believe it's the end of the year already! Before I hunker down and start really studying for my upcoming Norwegian exam, I'd like to reflect on some lessons I've learned this year:

1. Put reminders everywhere for silly, easy-to-forget things like renewing your monthly travel pass.
2. Never assume that being a "native English speaker" will give you any special advantage. Maybe it will, but certainly not always.
3. Don't be afraid of strangers. They won't bite. ...well, most won't, and if you're randomly bitten by a stranger at least you come away with a good story.
4. People love to talk about themselves. Let them. Let people talk, period.
5. Be observant about what your friends need and try to give it to them before they ask for it.
6. I can live off of less than $1000/mo in the most expensive city in the world, but I'm not sure how long I could keep it up. It involves no travel and almost no extra cash for new clothes or other "necessities." According to the World Bank, 1.4 billion people live off of less than $1.25 per day, or about $37.50/mo.
7. ...None of the other lessons seem very important after that.