Thursday, November 26, 2009

Thanksgiving in the US

I am amazed at the depth of my relationships. It kind of snuck up on me. They were built over the last 30 years, kind of like a slow, simmering stew.

I didn't know it takes a long time to develop truly deep relationships. It happens seamlessly over time, a little by little. Transparent.

Sure, I knew they were great friends, but the strength and vibrancy of these friendships are stunning. The great pleasure of this trip is reuniting with friends and family. I'm sure it will be a huge loss when we leave.

And you get a second chance. A couple of friendships have faded over the years, lost their luster. Even these are strong and interesting. A second chance sure is nice.

Maybe this leaving the country and returning thing is good.

We had a family day yesterday with a surprise visit from a niece. This was totally unexpected.

Today is another family day. My daughter and I will cook turkey dinner as has been our tradition for years. After the bird is in the oven, we go for a walk...kind of like our annual "get connected" time.

Thanksgiving Day is one of my favorite holidays. Probably because my part is the cooking while someone else cleans up. I think I got the good end of the stick with this one!

Then, Friday, back to more friends with family sprinkled in too.

A note on US driving.

I reported earlier that it is easy to drive here. I spoke too soon.

The highways are definitely easier but the city streets are tricky.

This traffic sprints, darts, accelerates and brakes very fast. When turning, if I look at the on coming traffic, I have to make sure their is A LOT of room or they will run over you.

Very fast, sharp driving.

It takes some getting used to.

I went to eat at my favorite Chinese restaurant and found it gone...closed with no new location. This took the breath out of me. I loved this place and eat their for over 25 years. I wonder what happened to this lovely family? How will I ever find hot and sour soup this good again?

This kind of change makes me sad. Kind of like loosing a good friend.

I suspect that more and more of this will happen as time goes on. I don't do well with it.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

I hope you get to hang out in the warm embrace of friends and family

4 comments:

billthinx said...

Count me in as also thankful for your friendship. I got a big smile catching up on your blog, especially reaction to being back in the States. Good to hear you are enjoying the experience so much! You and Yella have a gift for friendship and I'm feeling good for getting to be part of it. We are reveling in getting to spend some time with Jonny again, home from Chicago for a few days. He's such a good guy. Happy Turkey Day!

Anonymous said...

Hi Tom, sorry Your favorite Chinese has gone... You may want to try my Mom's favorite - (very good, and family run) China Palace, I believe? it is in the old Guiseppe's East building on Union, just north of Boulder... enjoy the rest of your stay. We had a great time here, yesterday with 14 for dinner. Was Great to see You and Yella. Love, Darshan

bullseye said...

Bill, thanks for your acknowledgment of our friendship. I believe we have been friends for about 35 years...wow!!! is that a long time or what! We miss you and wish our trip could include you, Marie and family.

I can imagine how good it is to hang our with Jonny. As they get older, they become friends--really good friends-- as well as children. Say Hi to Marie, Jonny and Julie for us. Enjoy the holiday season!

bullseye said...

Darshan, It was so good to see you! Hopefully longer next time. I have eaten at the restaurant that you mentioned and it is a good one. I used to eat their from time to time with Tom H. and, come to think of it, you!