Muji Magic

          For years the Kensington High Street Muji was our go-to shop for gel pens and notebooks. In Tokyo the familiar kanji (Chinese character) on shopping bags gave the fleeting impression I could read the language. "You mean Muji Ryushi," corrected acquaintance-san: "No label items." In Ginza the selection is much more than stationery. Over time it's been a source of lamps, toiletries, cardigans and yet another lunch set (prix fixe) in a city preoccupied by the next meal. On a Saturday afternoon young families and ponytailed older couples stop for a bite before browsing the spring line (gingham and light blue). Tokyoites follow the calendar rather than the temperature in how they dress, which  means boots in nigatasu (February).

           "Muji shampoo? Chotto...." observed my hairdresser. Rather than offer a negative opinion, which would not be polite, general custom is to shrug shoulders and utter this word. When offered seconds on slimy or greasy foods, for example, the combination of action plus word come in handy. I quickly switched to the other familiar brand (Shiseido) with better results.

         Tokyo winter, typically a series of blue skies and mild days, ends on a windy note that harbingers spring. During this wet week my feet have been grateful to my daughter for introducing "hot packs" to our family.  Sold five pairs to a bag (four is taboo) give them a shake, insert in shoes and enjoy warm feet for five hours. Hot packs come in other shapes for various uses attached into jackets or gloves. After the dusting of snow the other day, they helped with negotiating the zaka (hill) by the Manor.

           While outdoors remains frosty, things are hotting up at the ladies social club. After a long telephone conversation with the nominating committee I declined the position of president, preferring to continue in the Joe Biden role. In the case of Japanese candidates, as with the late Queen Mum and her gin and tonic, the initial request is often turned down but accepted upon second request. How surprising for this American to receive a second call in which it was revealed that the Japanese ladies are happy in supporting roles but do not want to lead. With our stay in  Japan very possibly coming to an end, I could only answer, "Chotto...."

         Meanwhile our Room to Read event is only half-full. Participants in next Sunday's marathon will have three days to rest before an evening of John Wood, which could be a good thing.