No. This isn't anything to do with Puccini. Or Chi, for that matter. But it does have something to do with bubble wrap. Confused? One most certainly was at the outset of this particular adventure, so do bear with us.

Puchi Puchi is another fiendishly clever invention from those fiendishly clever little Japanese, intent as they are on creating a gadget for every conceivable fetish and proclivity. A vending machine for underwear? No problem. A robot dog that can bark and climb stairs? Most certainly? A key ring that replicates the sound and sensation of bursting bubble-wrap? Tis mere bagatelle to the brilliance of the Japanese mind.

A Puchi Puchi (apparently Japanese onomatopoeia for the sound produced when bubblewrap is burst) is the size of a small cheese biscuit, but far more intelligent. Comprising a set of discreet buttons on an otherwise flat surface, these chaps emit a small popping sound when depressed, giving the overall sensation (and, one has to admit, satisfaction) of the bubble-wrap 'pop'.

But it doesn't end there. Keep popping and eventually one's Puchi Puchi will emit a small 'bonus' noise in recognition of the magnitude of one's popping efforts. All that remains is for the staging of Puchi Puchi races as you do battle with your Little Lady to see who can produce the first bonus sound effect. One will never know how one lived without it.

Konichiwa, over and out.