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I keep meaning to finish all my half-written entries, culled from scraps of paper and the back of receipts from Geneva. There is so much to write but even more work! I need a writing vacation.

History has been made since I last wrote, and I would say the first week of November was my first bout of true homesickness. It was hard to be away during the election -- but I'm so glad I had an opportunity to vote.

Then on Saturday the 8th, two of the three nephews celebrated their birthday, and dutifully took my phone call. "Are you coming all the way across the ocean to have dinner with us?" the 6-year-old asked. Sadly, no, I said.

Perhaps strangest of all, I missed the U.S. of A. on Veterans' Day. While there were many lovely rituals here, and stirring remembrances, I missed the Stars and Stripes and our own familiar traditions.

Lest you think I'm having any pangs of regret, let me be clear: I'm not. I love it here. In fact, I hope I'm still here when Obama is re-elected for the second term!

Comments

[Michael Shilliday]

I thought I'd leave it a few weeks before asking for identity protection reasons, but did I hear you on the radio one wet morning?

[mapgirl]

Nope, that wasn't me. I haven't been on the radio since I lived in Nashville and, strangely enough, was interviewed (as a passerby on the street) for a BBC show! Bob Harris on Radio 2!

Hope you thought it was me because the interviewed American was so well-reasoned and erudite (and not a blathering idiot).

m.

[Michael Shilliday]

Actually it was that the anecdote given was about a Grandmother who died recently, and she supported Obama, so I thought it might be you as these sounded familiar to this blog!

It was the thought for the day on Good Morning Ulster the day after election night from the American Consulate. I like to hear American views on local radio.

[Wondering]

HI Mapgirl!
We had a lovely evening with you at the Errigle. Thank you SO much for such a lovely treat.
Soch fun friends - an a privilege to be counted among them!