Endnotes[1] Normally one would refer to one’s mother as haha when speaking to a non-family member, but as Taka considers Mitsu part of the family, he uses the internal kaasan, in essence referring to “our mom.” Kaasan is a less formal way of referring to one’s mother, versus using the more commonly used okasan or the rarer and very formal okasama.
[2] A formal way of saying “Father” that confers a great deal of respect; the –sama honorific is often translated as “Lord”.
[3] Recessed entry way of the home where one leaves their outside shoes and changes into house slippers. One should never walk in the genkan in their house shoes, socks, or bare feet, as it would track dirt in the house.
[4] A standard greeting called out upon returning home that is generally translated to “I’m home.”
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