My first trip back to the U.S. in more than two years is quickly approaching. More of what I can't wait for and a bit of what I can do without:

Culinary delights

1. Having a classic Southern breakfast in a diner—eggs, bacon, biscuits, grits, orange juice.

2. Sweetened iced tea that’s NOT from a can and NOT carbonated.

3. Einstein’s honey whole wheat bagels with butter and a cup of Neighborhood Blend decaf

4. Auntie Anne’s jalapeno pretzels

5. Idaho baked potatoes. (Belgians are all about frites. Mashed and baked potatoes aren’t served here, and baking potatoes aren’t sold in the stores or markets so I can’t make them at home.)

Little Things Make a Big Difference

1. Being able to read every sign, form, receipt, flyer, and menu

2. Understanding what people are saying

3. Driving with confidence

4. Hearing Southern accents

5. Seven-day-a -week shopping; stores that don’t close at 7 p.m.

6. English language movies and TV

7. Listening to the radio

8. Celebrating Fourth of July

9. Outdoor pools and air conditioning

10. Reading a daily newspaper

Not looking forward to

1. Lack of public transit

2. Loud music, loud talking, loud everything

3. All the driving and time on the road

4. Living out of a suitcase for five weeks

5. Leaving some of my favorite shoes and purses at home.

June 4, 2007