Riku—Cardigan Wrenches

Dear Okaa-san,

It’s been a year since I landed on Mars and I’m still not used to the cold. We don’t have uniforms here, but the cardigan you knit me might as well be mine since I rarely take it off. Don’t worry, I haven’t spilled anything on it yet. Oto-san’s wrenches are in great condition too, and they’ve already come in handy. Tell him that Sandeep used his ⅝ to fix a leak in the water purification center today. They said a real iron wrench feels much sturdier than our 3D printed ones. I said they can borrow the tools whenever; they’ll be in good hands. I wish I could write more, but it’s time for Kaya’s Japanese lessons. I’m trying to get the rest of my pod to join in, it’s always more fun to teach a group. I’ll write again soon. I miss you both very much.

Love, your son Riku