12/29 was the last work day of the year at Madhouse. We all dropped by the new studio to unpack and organize our belongings. The building was actually nicer than we anticipated, and even though the spaces seemed slightly smaller compared to the old location, it seemed to me that it was better suited for an anime studio.

Overall, things are back to normal. Those who have ongoing shows are already working hard and will probably continue to work throughout the remainder of the year. Meanwhile, I sat down with the producer to discuss next year's projects.

People left the studio one by one, bidding each other "Yoi otoshi o" (I wish you a good New Year's Day).  This is the only time of the year in this industry when virtually everything comes to a grinding halt, with the exception of those animators who insist on working throughout the holiday (that's their problem, though). We'll hit the ground running on January 4th, back to producing more new anime shows for you all. Until then, Yoi otoshio o!!