Man, what a day! Seriously, I’m still reeling from it. So, I’m a charcoal burner, right? Yeah, I know, kinda old-school, but it’s my jam. Anyway, I woke up in Kurihashi, and lemme tell ya, this city is a mix of chill vibes and crazy surprises. First off, I hit up the local market on Shimozato Street. You wouldn’t believe the stuff they sell there! Fresh veggies, fish, and all that good stuff. I’m just minding my own business, trying to find some decent bamboo for my charcoal, when BAM! This old lady starts yelling at me. Like, what did I do? Turns out, she thought I was trying to steal her cabbage. I mean, c’mon! I’m not a cabbage thief! So, I’m standing there, trying to explain, but she’s not having it. I’m like, “Lady, I’m just here for bamboo!” But she’s all, “You young folks don’t respect your elders!” I’m like, “Respect? I’m just trying to make charcoal!” After that little drama, I finally found my bamboo. Thank goodness! I headed over to the Kurihashi River. Man, the view there is just stunning. The water sparkles like diamonds, and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. I took a moment to breathe it all in. Life’s good, ya know? But then, outta nowhere, this kid runs by, chasing a soccer ball. He kicks it, and guess where it lands? Right in the river! I’m like, “Dude, your ball!” But he just shrugs and runs off. Kids these days, right? So, I’m walking along the river, thinking about life, when I bump into my buddy Taro. He’s a fisherman, and he’s always got some wild stories. Today, he’s telling me about this giant catfish he caught last week. I’m like, “Dude, you sure it wasn’t just a log?” He gets all defensive, “Nah man, it was HUGE!” We laugh, and I feel good. But then, I remember I gotta get back to work. So, I head over to my spot near the Kurihashi Station. It’s a bit of a trek, but I like the walk. The streets are lined with cute little shops and cafes. I pass by this place on Koshigaya Street that sells the best mochi. I swear, I could live off that stuff! Finally, I get to my spot, and it’s time to fire up the kiln. I’m sweating bullets, but I love it. The smell of burning wood is like home to me. But then, disaster strikes! My lighter runs out of fuel. I’m like, “No way! Not now!” I start rummaging through my bag, and guess what? I find a pack of matches! Thank you, universe! So, I get the fire going, and I’m feeling like a champ. But then, the wind picks up. Seriously? I’m trying to keep the flames steady, and it’s like the wind’s got a vendetta against me. I’m yelling at the sky, “C’mon, give me a break!” After what feels like forever, I finally get it under control. I’m exhausted but happy. I sit back and watch the coals glow. It’s peaceful, ya know? As the sun sets, I think about my day. It was a rollercoaster, for sure. From cabbage drama to giant catfish tales, Kurihashi never fails to surprise me. I love this city, with all its quirks and chaos. So, yeah, that was my day. Just another wild ride in Kurihashi. Can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!