Report of 23 Nov 2020

 Good afternoon from Newark, NJ -

The pandemic is surging here.  We were fortunate to come, as a few flights were cancelled and other journeys re-routed, and have self-quarantined.

We have seen our children and that has been joyous.  They gave us a nice talking-to for eating out - I was craving a burger and eating out is safe in India, so we toodled out on day 2 for a meal - and we will desist.  My father was highly amused that our children reprimanded us.  

And culture shock is here with a vengeance: we watched the American Music Awards last night.  The music was fine and enjoyable; some of the costumes and dance moves - twerking - seemed pointless to me.  Scott summed it up succinctly: we are not the target demographic.  We used to see signs in other languages at various places - in college, for instance - and would always say, "If you don't understand it, it's not for you."  Same way with the costumes and twerks.  

The flight from India to the U.S. was non-stop and 15 hours long.  My mask slid down when I was asleep and I was awakened by the flight attendant to slide it back up.  Service on the flight was excellent; I used to think domestic U.S. airlines could not do international service well, but they were fine.  The grilling at "Homeland Security" was less than usual.  

I rather love being here.  People say "May I help you?" and mean it.    

We spoke to my Dad and he is well.  When I asked him what he would like from the U.S., he said, "Return safely.  That will do."  

I mean this sincerely when I say to all of you, around the world, "Stay safe and well."

Unw -

R