Man, what a day! Seriously, I can’t even. So, I’m a librarian, right? And today was just... wow. I woke up in Sendai, and I thought, “Today’s gonna be chill.” Spoiler alert: it was NOT chill. First off, I’m walking down Aoba-dori, right? It’s this major street, super busy, and I’m just trying to get to work. But then, BAM! A pigeon poops on my shoulder. Like, really? I’m just trying to live my best life here! I’m standing there, flapping my arms like a crazy person, trying to shake it off. People are staring. Ugh, so embarrassing! Finally, I get to the library, and it’s packed. I mean, who knew so many people wanted to read? I’m like, “Guys, it’s a Wednesday, not a weekend!” But whatever, I love my job. I’m helping this kid find a book on dinosaurs. He’s super into it, and I’m like, “Yes! Future paleontologist right here!” But then, his mom comes in, and she’s all, “We don’t have time for this!” I’m like, “Lady, chill! It’s just a book!” But she drags him out. Rude! Then, I get a call from my buddy Kenji. He’s like, “Yo, let’s hit up the Sendai Tanabata Matsuri later!” I’m like, “Heck yes! I need some fun after this day!” So, I’m daydreaming about the festival, all those colorful streamers and food stalls. Mmm, yakitori! My mouth is watering just thinking about it. But then, disaster strikes. The fire alarm goes off! I’m like, “Seriously? In the middle of a busy day?” Everyone’s panicking, and I’m trying to keep my cool. I’m yelling, “Stay calm! It’s probably a drill!” But deep down, I’m like, “Please don’t let it be a real fire. I can’t deal with this!” We all shuffle outside, and I’m standing there, freezing my butt off. It’s like, what, 15 degrees? I’m regretting my fashion choices. I should’ve worn a jacket! I’m shivering, and then I see this cute dog. It’s a Shiba Inu, and I’m like, “Aww, you make everything better!” I pet it, and it’s all wiggly and happy. Instant mood booster! After what feels like forever, they let us back in. Turns out, it was just some kid pulling the alarm. I’m like, “Dude, not cool!” But whatever, I’m back to work. I help a couple of students with their research papers. They’re all stressed, and I’m like, “Guys, it’s just school. You’ll survive!” I mean, I survived high school, right? Barely, but still! Finally, the day ends, and I’m outta there. I meet up with Kenji at the Tanabata Matsuri. The streets are lit up, and it’s so beautiful! I’m feeling all the good vibes. We grab some yakitori and some sweet mochi. I’m in heaven! The atmosphere is electric, and I’m just soaking it all in. But then, I see this guy dressed as a giant tanabata star. I can’t help it—I start laughing. Like, who thought that was a good idea? Kenji’s like, “Dude, you’re gonna get us kicked out!” But I can’t stop. It’s just too funny! As the night goes on, I’m feeling grateful. Sendai is such a cool city. The mix of modern and traditional is just perfect. I love the vibe here. I mean, I’ve got my library, my friends, and all this amazing food. What more could I ask for? So yeah, that was my day. From pigeon poop to a fire alarm to a festival full of laughter. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Sendai, you crazy, beautiful city, you’ve got my heart!