Whales, karaoke, and even more random salarymen

During the past few weeks, I've...

...eaten whale for the first time (after a class debate on whether or not to continue whale hunting, funnily enough)


...gone on a cruise in Yokohama,


...received a crash course in the art of tea ceremony,


...gone to karaoke,


...met some more random salarymen (I refer to every Japanese man wearing a white shirt and holding a briefcase as such),


...gotten a ring stuck on my finger removed with the help of some firemen,


...taught 5th graders how to step,


AND learned that lunch in Japanese elementary schools means business. These kids had hats, face masks, aprons, AND gloves? Yeah, this girl was impressed.)


...and attended my first matsuri (festival).


(the taiko drummer looked like he was wearing a diaper. *giggle*)


I get so incredibly sad when I realize I only have a month left in Tokyo. But it makes it that much more important for me to have as much fun--and of course learn as much Japanese--as possible. I'll try my best to write more often. I have a lot to say.