Biiru to issho ni fatto supureddo wa kuru neh

This week has been rather work-intensive. I normally try to avoid such a situation, but occassionally it's impossible. Nevertheless, I have had some interesting experiences. On Tuesday evening (at 6 pm sharp) there was an "exchange reception" for the inhabitants of the International House, hosted by various Osaka University dignitaries and local community groups (e.g. the Rotary Club or "rotari kurabu"). The party featured free beer and food, as well as cultural performances (dancing, music, etc.). This evening (Friday) there was a reception for foreign science researchers, including grad students and postdocs (myself included). Much of the same food and drink was supplied, but at this party we were all surprised that we had to introduce ourselves. I decided not to wimp out and attempted to do so in Japanese, so as not to be shown up by the grad students. I believe I managed to say, "Good evening, ladies and gentleman. My name is Eric Miller. I am from America. I am a postdoc in the Tsunemi research lab. I am very pleased to meet you." Granted, Norbert-san coached me a bit a priori, but he also says I nailed it. A baby started crying after I mentioned I was American, but I don't know if he was upset at my pronunciation or my homeland's foreign policy.

At the party I met a couple from Holland who just moved into the International House (not of pancakes) two days ago. Apparently they found my photos of the place via google, and so were able to show their friends and family where they'd be living. (And they came anyway? Hardy folk, those Dutch.)

The parties were both quite fun, and to the sponsors I say arigatoo gozaimashita. Gochisoosama deshita! (Although the science party ended 2 minutes late.)

By the way, all of you tired of waiting for the T should read this, the number four national news story this morning.

Also in the news is Kotooshu, the Bulging Bulgarian. On Wednesday he was visited by the big bosses of ozumo and officially offered promotion to ozeki, or champion, the second-highest level of sumo classes. He humbly accepted. Next stop, yokozuna.

My latest purchase at the Family Mart was that of "neo-soft", some sort of butter substitute. It's described in katakana as ファットスプレッド, or "fat spread". I can only hope it is.