Mr. Hayashi offered to buy the gang lunch today since he did some translation work the other day. His pockets were jingling, and it was to our benefit. We went next door to the cafe and had a set lunch there. They have a great price – it only set him back about 500 yen a head.
We talked about the upcoming party next week. Lots of people aren’t going, but I think I convinced Mr. Komuri to go with me. In keeping with tradition, we’ll be meeting somewhere first to do some “front-loading”, and then head over. They always have long speeches at the beginning of these, so if we arrive with a good buzz we won’t mind as much sitting there staring at the beer. It’s a fine line to walk, but we’re professionals, here.
After lunch I went home to do chores and organize my place. I’ve sent off the last of my Xmas packages, so I had lots of boxes, wrapping paper, bubble wrap, and other debris laying around the living room. Now things are back in order. I did a little laundry, and started burning data to DVD with my new burner. It’s a relief to have backups now.
At around six I went over to Azusa’s place to do some English conversation lessons, and as usual her mother fixed me a big cup of coffee for the long walk home in the cold. As a bonus she put out a bunch of sandwiches – six of them – for me to eat. I only ate one, but the hospitality seems to go up a notch each time. Next week is our last lesson before Christmas, so I need to think of something fun to do.
When I got home I cooked up some rice and shrimp with Korean sauce and green onions. It turned out delicious.
Lately I’ve been feeling a little out of whack. Usually I walk around with a smile on my face, but recently I have to remember to smile. Last year for two days I was in a blue funk and found myself locked in my house feeling like crap for no apparent reason. I’m wondering if this is another episode coming up. This week was supposed to be all fun and games after the completion of my test, but my attitude hasn’t really matched it. I guess I just need to catch up on my sleep and be a little more social. Friday’s big party should be a good way to do that.
