Takuro’s parents live in the suburbs of Tokyo. We visited them and they treated us to a fancy tofu (豆腐) lunch. Takuro’s mom used to teach English to children. She was very excited to meet me, and I felt the same way. Her English is fantastic, and Takuro’s Dad’s English phrases are very good as well. They are both such nice people.

We exchanged some gifts. Takuro’s mom gifted me a personalized handkerchief, and also a personalized handkerchief for my mom. So thoughtful!

The night before, Seika and I made American sugar cookies, and we gifted them two of our most attractive ones. We also gave the Trader Joe’s bag to Takuro’s mom. Trader Joe’s bags are such good quality and also a very popular American item in Japan. Today, in America, the new mini bags for the Halloween season are out in stores. When I return home, I hope to acquire a few and send them in the mail.

On the couch at Takuro’s parent’s house, I noticed a teddy bear next to me on the couch. It is a baby weight teddy bear that is the exact weight of Takuro’s brother when he was a baby. It was a gift given to his parents on his wedding day as a commemorative way to show gratitude. A typical baby weight, but much heavier than your normal teddy bear.

Before the tofu lunch, in the restaurant’s courtyard, there were some traditional Japanese children’s games. Here’s a game that Takuro’s mom is showing me: you stack up all the pieces and try to hit one out of the tower without knocking over the whole thing. It felt similar to Jenga but more challenging.

The fancy tofu lunch consisted of a variety of tofu presentations with very seasonal ingredients. I wonder how the menu will be different in the spring. I guess I will have to come back!

Before the tofu began, we ordered a crispy whole fish appetizer. I was gifted the end of the fish that contained the eggs inside. It was pretty yummy and not too intimidating.

Then the parade of tofu began, starting with large floating blocks of soft tofu presented in a wooden bucket.

Here’s Takuro’s Mom and Dad with the first round of our tofu meal.

The next round of tofu blocks, this time fried, was brought out and grilled table-side.

Then, fried tofu blocks with fish flakes on top,

Then, a fish dish with a ginko seed,

And soba served in a tall ceramic dish,

And mushroom hotpot with tofu and so many delicious types of mushrooms,

And beef tail with silk tofu,

And dessert of a jelly-like sweet with a sweet potato chip on top!

The entire meal was filled with exciting and comfortable flavors and great conversation. Everyone is happy to spend time together

ごちそうさま! (Gochisōsama, thank you for the meal!)

I look forward to when we can see each other again.