To: Crecente
From: Bash
Subject: New Duds

So this week my kid started wearing his *new* uniform. He has two types of uniforms: a fall/winter one and a spring/summer one. The fall/winter one is a navy blue jacket, white shirt, shorts and a round hat with a ribbon. The spring/summer one? A sailor outfit with a straw hat. It's adorable... Sickeningly so.

Before I came to Japan, I usta always wonder what was up with the uniforms. Why are they so prevalent? Still don't have any easy answers, but personally, they now put me at ease. You know what to expect from people wearing a uniform — whether it be the bank lady or the guy fixing the elevator. They've got clearly defined roles, and there's peace of mind in that. No surprises.

What you missed last night:

• Countdown gets me all ranty


• Aussie Nintendo uncertain about holiday releases


• PSP needs that system seller

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