Our Friends from Japan

Facebook is a wonderful tool when it is carefully used with honesty and discretion.  This week I became 'friends' again with a Japanese family who once lived in America and became collecting friends and visiting guests on many occasions.  At the time Yumiko (the mother), Shinji (the father), Akiko (the daughter), and Toshi (the son) had lived in Atlanta and then Pennsylvania for several years. Yumiko and I became friends because we collected the same things.  One thing led to another and the entire family became involved.  The son was around three or four years old at the time and now teaches middle school in Japan.  The beautiful daughter who was around twelve is now a mother and a free lance translator.  Shinji is back in Pittsburgh and Yumiko is coming to America this month to visit him. Shinji was partial to grits having spent a long time in the south.  I once asked what he'd like to eat while staying here and he said grits. A turkey wrapped in puff pastry I could do--a grit is another matter, but try it I did.  Strangely, Shinji never asked for grits again while dining here.  Akiko, however, repeatedly liked my stinging hot gazpacho--tears would run freely down her face, but the bowl would be empty and the task done each and every time. I am so happy they are in our lives again.

Twelve days and we will be on our way to Hilton Head, turkeys and hams in tow with wine and gin and Stolichnaya (iced Russian vodka)--we are planning on having a very good time. The dogs have no idea we are leaving them here with Matt, but they are forgiving creatures and they must keep Matt company while he studies.  Matt is a Japanese (studies major) and there is no down time when it comes to that field of endeavor.

I will take many pictures of our time together and share them right away.  I hope your Thanksgiving is one blessed with family and friends and good food.