Chopsticks at 7/11, buy a scarf!
So Friday’s photo had my lunch from Thursday, and in it were 3 items. Octopus fried with cabbage - very tasty, and a sushi roll that is my favorite rolls from any convenience store selection.
When I purchased the sushi roll at the 7/11 the employee there went through the normal routine of putting the sushi in a bag - but he clearly skipped over the chopsticks when taking my money and giving me my change. I know he saw the chopsticks, and surely he would’ve given the chopsticks to every other customer - instead I think he was too busy thinking about how not to speak to the foreigner in front of him. In fact, I knew it was a bit strange when he ushered me to the counter without a word and failed to use polite Japanese that I am used to hearing.
If this had happened 6 months ago I would’ve been in trouble, language barriers were really high then. But on Thursday I responded pretty smoothly and said “Summimasen, ohasi ha arimasuka?” my best literal translation without looking at the dictionary “Excuse me, chopsticks do have?”. He was shocked, and quickly nodded his head and raised a finger indicating the number one (still without more than a barely audible “uhn”), and I replied “Hai hitotsu” - “yes one”.
On to a completely different note. Christmas is right around the corner and if you are in the market looking for a great gift for that special someone - look no further than these beautiful hand-crafted scarves. They were tenderly crafted by my niece and I am sure you will be glad you bought one as a present. I’m proud she is taking a step toward entrepreneurship - all it takes is a little idea and a lot of effort 
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7868616
Hurry up to be sure you get the one you want!
August 31st, 2009 at 4:17 pm
What kind of sushi was it? I like the eel kind, yum!! It’s been a while since I’ve had some
I am craving some now, all because of you! 
Hehe I am glad you were able to handle the chopsticks situation just fine 
You’re a smart guy and I know you’ll keep getting better at it!!! 
And btw, good luck to your niece with the scarves - they are pretty indeed!! 
August 31st, 2009 at 5:16 pm
Tuna, cucumber, mayo and something else…
Eel is really good too
hope you get a chance to eat some soon!
August 31st, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Oh my…that one sounds good!! I hope so too, thank you
Btw, do you and Ayako know how to make it? Do you guys make it often? Is it common for people to make it at home or do Japanese people usually have it at restaurants? Do they usually have it for dinner or lunch or breakfast or just as an appetizer? We usually have it as appetizers but there are also dishes that consist of just sushi. They are expensive though 
very expensive. So I\’ve never had JUST sushi as a meal before, boo!