Back in the big apple
I normally love coming back to this crazy city that I've come to call home (no worries - my loyalty is still to California), or at least not dread returning, but this time around was different. I wanted more than anything to stay in SE Asia with Jane and continue the backpacker lifestyle of moving from place to place and experiencing new adventures and cultures and scenery everyday with random things thrown at you, both good and bad, but memorable nonetheless.

But alas, I've returned and reverse culture shock is always harder for me. Don't get me wrong. I'm enjoying the fresh air (yes, you heard that right. I think NYC has fresh air. on my!) and the cool days, not being sticky and dirty all the time and not having to worry about the lights going off when I'm in the shower. I can even flush toilet paper down the toilet. But since I was only gone for 2.5 weeks, those are luxuries I could've continued to live without in exchange for travel adventures. My first night back in my comfty bed, I actually longed of sleeping in some sketch bed in some new place trying to safely hide in my ever narrow sleepsheet. I miss Jane, the amazing food in Thailand, being active and all that travelling entails.

So, as I get back into the swing of things, the recent travels days still linger in my mind as I'm still paranoid about bugs and imaging phantom mosquitos. And I'm still in awe that I can walk down the street with no one staring at me (only after sans big backpack) or yelling "Lady, tuk-tuk?". I know eventually these thoughts will fade, however my sensible teva tan and scars from various creatures will unfortunately linger on longer.

On a more positive note, I look forward to seeing all my friends in the city and having an awesome summer which will hopefully be productive in both work and play. Back to the theatre-going, concert-ing, dancing and what not and living my NY life. At least I have a few scarves, pillowcases and a lovely blanket from abroad to make me smile :) And of course I'll forever remember the awesome adventures that Jane and I shared this summer. Ce la vie. Life goes on!