“let’s enjoy this lovely cake with fresh fruits and whipped cream on it”

My latest obsession has been with a Japanese character named “Rilakkuma.” I talk about him so much that I feel like he deserves further explanation. “Rilakkuma” is a combination of the Japanese words “relax” and “bear.”  The character is a huge hit right now and I can see why.  Who doesn't like a cute bear whose favorite activities include sleeping, watching TV, soaking in hot springs and eating pancakes and custard pudding? 

I don’t think a day has gone by at school in the past four months when I didn’t see something Rilakkuma-related (not including the picture of him saying “I love English!” on my bulletin board).  Rilakkuma has even made his way into my apartment.  So far, I own a Rilakkuma body pillow, pair of socks, toilet paper cover, keychain, lunch bag, stuffed animal, and notebook.  I think I’ve gone Rilakkuma crazy, but oddly enough I know I'm not alone.

I was grading papers at Tokai High School a few weeks ago and came across a paper that made me smile.  The topic was “What is your dream?” Most students wrote about their dreams to get into a good university or make it to the next level in high school, but one girl wrote: “My dream is to own many Rilakkuma goods,” to which I was tempted to respond, “Mine too!”



There is no such thing as owning too many Rilakkumas.