Went to an Aoyama Toastmasters meeting yesterday as a guest. Their mission is to improve spoken communication and leadership skills. Thought I would just have to say a couple of words of introduction and then listen and try not to make a mess eating. No such luck. I was called on to speak 4 times . They had an "Um and Ah" counter... I was the worst Ummer and Aher at the meeting by far (14 ums and ahs!)... I was extrememly impressed by the professional format and way in which everyone supported everyone else. Will definitely go again. Clearly, I, um, have a lot to work on!