HOME part 2!

I am back and settled into life in St. Kitts. My trip to new york can be described as no less than a chaotic whirlwind. There were so many things to do and so many people to see in those two weeks that it has all blurred together and feels like a distant dream snuggled nicely in my memory box alongside other mementos like snow, sushi, and dishwashers. Immediately upon landing, i felt the air become thicker and more damp, and looking around I was re-awakened to a view of lush, tropical greens and blues as opposed to the steel grays and silvers of the Manhattan landscape. I took a taxi home and the driver, upon reaching my house, asked if I felt safe here. He did it in a caring and protective manner that reminded me of the many reasons why I love St. Kitts.
I certainly did not get to spend an adequate amount of time with each and every person while I was home, yet I know you were all very understanding of the circumstances I was in. When I arrive home for my final stop I know we will have plenty of time to catch up and reconnect.
My first weekend in North America was spent in Ottawa, Ontario for my cousin Jeremy's wedding. It was an appropriately relaxing destination that helped me to ease back into the unfamiliar pace of life up north. Manhattan is a very stimulating environment, however it is simultaneously quite draining, and it was nice to escape from my escape for a few days. Jeremy and Marni's wedding was a beautiful occasion to celebrate and I was so grateful to have so much of my family collectively together. My brother flew in from Geneva, Uncle Tom came up from Maryland with the very entertaining and vivacious Miriam, my very worldly and learned cousin Ari was there in his true radiant form, Ralph and Antoinette Kirshbaum flew in from London, and obviously the beaming parents of the groom, my Uncle Jay and Tanta Patti were there. Of course not everyone could make it, and I was very upset that I didnt get to see my grandparents, my sweet cousin Jessi and her husband, and Tanta Susie during this trip, however I know we'll be able to spend some quality time when I return.
After Canada, I stopped shortly in Binghamton to see some old friends, and then took a trip to Philly to see some more friends. I spent one glorious night in Philly and got to meet the wonderful Doberman Maya who has recently passed away :( . I also went with my friends to see the house that they are moving into, which is coincidentally the house that I will be moving into after my Peace Corps service. It was nice to have met Maya and to see my future home. We ate many delicious sandwiches, drank delicious American beer, and laughed in our usual spasmodic manner over nonsensical gibberish. It's nice to know that no amount of time apart from these people can erase the bizarre and unique idiosyncrasies that we share.
The last weekend of my vacation was spent with some of my very best friends, Shelby and Lyn, who flew up from Dallas, and Jac who drove for 6 hours from Cape Cod with potential corneal ulcers (but maybe just expired contact solution? or eye fatigue?) and very little sleep. Rya was also there. It was wonderful experiencing the city with these crazy women and I can't wait until our next adventure. I hope the world is ready.

There were many precious moments during this trip, whether it was something simple, like coming home to a well-stocked fridge that only my mother could put together, or something new and spontaneous, like going bike-riding with my brother in a city I am unfamiliar to. I was glad I could experience the usual things I love about trips to New York, like having breakfast with my effervescent Aunt Patti or simply walking and talking with my loving and eccentric father. This trip was a reassuring and placating reminder that I know I have a home wherever my loved ones are.

There is much excitement and celebration for the move to our new NYC apartment! which is across the street from our current domain! Upgrades: our apartment is no longer facing the street, which means no loud sirens, loudly cursing drivers, and honking cabs, pets are allowed, which is excellent since I'm bringing Shaggy back to the states, there are friendlier tenants who are basking in the glow of their respective golden-ages, we have a lovely garden with a Selman-like list of meticulous, fun-hemorrhaging rules like no picnics!, the hallways are decorated in an "art-deco" fashion (I think that's what my dad said..I wasn't entirely listening), and the elevators are being renovated. Downside: fluorescent lighting in the lobby.

Hope everyone is happy and healthy
Much love and paz,
alisa