And we're back

…with mixed emotions.


The trip home was great even though the 10 days felt more like five. Highlights included:

Eating a burrito as big as my head for my first meal back (thank you, El Farolito):

Driving across the Golden Gate to Tomales Bay for a picnic of shuck-your-own oysters, Acme bread, and Cowgirl Creamery cheeses:

Relaxing in peace and quiet and serenity at Huntington Lake outside of Fresno (the most fabulous place on Earth according to one member of this family):

I confess, it wasn’t easy getting on that plane back to Shanghai. I had forgotten how much I missed the city of San Francisco, browsing her shops, sitting in her parks, and even quickly escaping her for warmer weather and culinary delights. And there’s just something about being with old friends, those who know you best and who’ve seen you through the ups and downs of life. It felt good to laugh, and laugh deeply.

But (here it comes), it’s also nice to be back in our temporary home, in a space we’ve made our own, and the place where we’ve hung our hats. Besides, there’s more to get done before our time here is up, travel being of utmost importance. Not to mention mastering the language (cough, cough, ya right) and writing a few food reviews along the way.