Among the many wonders of life in Japan, the following headline and story appeared in this morning’s Japan Times:

As Mask Supplies Dwindle, Japanese Bra Maker Offers Support Where It’s Most Needed

As the coronavirus pandemic continues, one company is taking a unique approach to easing the shortage of masks in Japan.

Atsumi Fashion Co., a sewing company based in Toyama Prefecture, is producing masks by repurposing women’s underwear. The company began utilizing the cloth lining from bras after an employee realized similar materials were being used in disposable masks.

“We hope we can contribute to society as the mask shortage continues,” said Hiroshi Hinata, the company’s sales manager. “Even these masks can prevent the virus from spreading to others through coughing or sneezing.”

Employees are making masks after working hours at the company’s factory in Himi. They tried to devise new methods after the city called on local businesses to help provide masks for workers at City Hall, which only had 600 left.

Atsumi Fashion plans to make 1,000 masks for the city and distribute them to medical and educational institutions, prioritizing those in greatest need.

Other firms have also shifted resources toward mask-making.

In February, Sharp Corp. announced it would be making 1,500 masks a day by the middle of this month. Earlier, a chipmaker in Kanagawa Prefecture began using its “clean rooms” to make masks.

The Japan Times | March 22, 2020

Any doubt about the changing character of our Nishiarai neighborhood ended on February 28 when a Starbucks opened for business at our local mall. The weekend lines for service discouraged a visit until today. Even with shorter lines, the wait for a tall latte was longer than expected as all the Japanese customers had ordered more exotic Starbucks offerings. I suspect Starbucks will not regret its decision!!!!

The August Moon Café is owned and operated by Miki and Dallas Pyle, long-time friends who had also relocated to Tokyo from Maine.  In addition to being one of our regular dining spots, it is also a gathering place when mutual friends from Maine visit Japan.  Last week we enjoyed a pleasant lunch at the café with a Maine visitor, our friend (and favorite dessert and pastry chef-d’oeuvre) Atsuko Fujimoto.

Afterwards we wandered with friends Mikako Nishikawa and Mike Yellen through the old Tokyo Ningyocho neighborhood on a beautiful early spring day looking for a place to have an afternoon coffee and snack.  Although there were many small cafes and bars, we were unfamiliar with the area and had no specific destination in mind when we spotted the Chez Andre du Sacré Coeur, a small café that appeared inviting.

Upon entering, the décor and unpretentious atmosphere immediately impressed me as that of an authentic Parisian bistro.  While we leisurely enjoyed our conversation with a small sample of delicious food, I was captivated by the apparently old family black and white photography on the walls.  I wondered if there was a story of this very French eatery located in the heart of old Tokyo?

As we were preparing to leave, my question was answered.  The owner, Mme. Laurence Masukawa came over to thank us for visiting and bid us farewell.  She briefly explained the interesting history of the café and in the course of a very engaging conversation revealed she not only knew the August Moon Café but that Miki and Dallas were dear friend. Later, Miki said they often dine at Café Andre.

Upon returning home I did some research on Café Andre.  All of the many reviews were very positive, highlighting an exceptional traditional French menu, attentive and unobtrusive service, and very reasonable prices.  And the café’s website tells a wonderful story of the café’s history (http://park7.wakwak.com/~chezandrescoeur/). 

Paris in old Tokyo just 30 minutes from home!  Discovery of yet another great place and a surprising relationship that makes living here such an exciting and rewarding experience.

In the past six months Toma has adapted to a new environment and become a more loving and friendly member of our family. He enjoys making new friends –– human and canine –– and welcomes family and friends into our home. A wonderful and loyal companion.

On our frequent walks around the local park, Toma has become a popular member of the dog-walking community. He seems to know it as portrayed in this Peanuts cartoon clip: