I am huge in Japan

Shortly after our performance, Sara and I happened upon each other. I am not sure who was looking to bum a cigarette, though the chances are good that it was me. We stood in the parking lot satisfying our cravings before we boarded the bus and made our way to the next city.

Mid-drag, Sara and I were approached by a shy young Japanese boy with a camera. He was no more than sixteen and was wearing a nervous smile.

“Roo ahh booteeful. I ruv a piktcha.” He said.

Sara and I both chuckled and put our arms around him to pose while his friend snapped a few pictures. Once done clicking, the friend posed with us to have pictures of his own taken. I looked at Sara and smiled between shots. Sara was blonde with blue eyes. I, brunette, although sun-streaked, had grey-blue eyes and a dark tan. I guess we looked a little different than the girls back in Japan.

Have you ever wondered who the random people are in the backgrounds of the photos of your family album? Even better, have you ever wondered how many pictures you are in all over the world? How many families have shots of you walking behind Mickey Mouse at Disneyland, or you shoving a turkey leg in your mouth at fair? How many books and albums is your mug gracing, and are there places where you can be seen bending over in the background of the Johnson family camping trip photos?

I had this exact thought after Japanese boy number two had finished posing. When I looked up, I could not believe what I saw. A line, easily composed of all one hundred fifty members of the Japanese Drum and Bugle Corps, had formed in front of us. All of the boys were chattering nervously and every last one held a camera. Now, I am not usually one for stereotypes, but what is it with Asian people and cameras?

Each boy lined up to have his picture taken with two fabulous American women. We laughed until our stomachs hurt, but made sure each and every Japanese boy had the opportunity to get their photo taken with us. I have never felt more famous. When I think of all of the places where my face can be seen, I like to tell people that I am huge in Japan… because I am.