Lost in Aisle 12

I'm back!!  After taking time away from blogging, storytelling, and occasionally complaining/poking, I've dusted off some old stories (now over 1 yr old) that never saw the light of day after our hectic move back to the US from Paris. I think of my time there so often that it only seems natural to share these, even now. 

Reflections on Returning To the US

“What does it feel like to be back?”, they ask. Let’s start with food. More specifically, let’s start with the overwhelming food choices, like snack magic in a wrapper with quantities so large it surely could feed everyone in the village of Milhac twice. Oh that’s a single serving you say. Of course it is – in a parallel universe. I willfully pick up my favorite items, greeting them presumptuously like old friends. It becomes a welcome party on aisle 8 – don’t be alarmed. Sure I was glad to see familiar fare in packages greater than a one day supply, at least in theory. In reality, the choices were in fact more than I could visually contemplate.

Day 4

My ability to resume navigation of the Target universe would need some time. I was in a clear state of paralysis at the end cap of aisle 12, feeling a slight urge to propel myself with or without the cart – out the front door. Though I had never experienced a panic attack, I was certain this could be its trigger. Both options, leaving or panicking, seemed more plausible than standing in a current state of zombie. 

As I envision those daily treks on foot to Monop or Carrefour in my mind, I tell myself I’ll try the Target universe again tomorrow. I’ll drive there and I’ll like it. Intentional thinking seemed to be my most useful friend. Maybe I’ll stock up on something, anything really, just because...well, because I can.

Singapore Slingin

I mentioned Singapore is incredibly clean but its more than that. This little big sized city-state, island, and country (yes its all of these with 5M people), is also likely the most civilized, orderly, and polite locale I know. Perhaps not surprising since 34% are Buddhist, yet I did hear Christmas music playing EVERYWHERE in the background even in mid November. Many delish and unknown foods consumed. Its uncomfortable, even ugly, but let's face it...breaking out of our norms is undeniably good for us all.  Below is the Merlion - symbol of Singapore...part fish, part lion - that's another story for another time. 

I had originally boarded this 16 hr flight unknowing. What I discovered was an interesting blend of the cultures and tastes of its nearby neighbors - Indonesia, Malaysia, India, China (74%) etc, yet with an extremely stable, corruption-free way of life that is sustained by their strong trading/export economy (electronics, IT, pharma, and a growing financial services biz).

It was clear 'western' fashion industries inspire, high end shopping may well have no better match, and hotels rival the best Vegas or Manhattan have to offer. And yes, Singapore sling is real...and fruity. A bit over hyped perhaps, but this mixed drink has become a signature experience for visitors for over 100 years. Apparently a bartender from the Long Bar (its still there) served up a US 'gin sling', later doctored and renamed the Singapore sling (think gin, cherry brandy, orange, pineapple, lime juice, water etc.) The locals are happy to entertain you.

So lets go back to this state of unbelievable clean. Every street, in the corners, where its dark, where normally ants crawl (nope never saw one), and the dust collects...well not sure they know anything of the sort. Even the construction sites are clean. It was, I've said, almost unnatural. Where was the dirt - where did they put it? Giant bubble on outskirts of town, thrown into the waters?  Mysterious, yes, but it didn't stop me from experiencing the local culture and enjoying the night views - a skyline in all directions.

The most common gadget was the telescoping phone holder for taking bigger, better selfies - very popular. At the end of a week, I took my memories of a most considerate nature and excused myself on a flight toward Hong Kong. For those who may journey to Singapore, my short list follows:



• Gardens by the Bay (but skip the domes) and ArtScience museum
• Yes take the metro - its easy and yep, crazy clean
• Haji Lane (not on Sun am except to visit the cutest cafe) and grab an authentic Indian breakfast nearby in route
• Chinatown (eat and be merry til late in the eve)
• Try a kaya (a sugary coconut spread on toast)
• Yes, Marina Bay Sands infinity pool amazes - see or stay
• Little India (unless you need dodgy electronics or authentic fabrics, you may be disappointed)
• Orchard Road (check out sections that don't lead to Cartier) 

US Reintegration

Reintegration sounds serious, as if bodily harm could be involved.  Truth is, I'm sidestepping moments of disappointment with an appreciation of conveniences, and getting back into a groove that isn't on a 6 hr delay. 

Where was that street or store or whatever? Was it always so sedentary here; where are some stairs and walking streets I came to love while I was away? Where can I find that interesting assortment of lettuces I used to buy in Paris? Why do all our products seem to be complicated and French products often so simple (case in point: salad dressings)?

I miss my big blue door with a fake knob handle and the view that never disappointed. And so I'll set my phone ringer to the Paris Metro jingle as a consolation.  It'll do for now. 

A View of Everything

As a contractor, I don't have one office to which I must go each day.  Some days I work from the apartment, and if you've read past posts, you know I can be found working just about anywhere there's a surface large enough for a laptop.  Today, I needed a full on office for making conference calls. The only one available was at Invalides.  Ok twist my arm.  Just another day at the office.

Walking part way, I take in the view of everything. I think living here has reminded me how to really 'see' what is around me.