Doug & Susan's Top 10!

In about 2 weeks we'll be boarding a plane home for the summer. 40 years ago, some of us called 'em "Freedom Birds", and back home was "across the pond". It's a new time, but the excitement of seeing home is still the same! And there are at least 10 reasons for jubilation...so here we go ---

#10. No honking buses, cabs, cars, and motorbikes!

In Hanoi horns are used as a warning. "Honk, honk, I'm right beside you and I'm coming through!" It's either move over or ride on my front bumper. The beeping is constant and loud from 7am until about 10pm. Any vehicle with a horn has a voice in the traffic.

#9.  Michigan "Up-North" Fudge is so much better than any candy here!

Call me a "fudgie", I don't care. Just gimme some! Preferably chocolate with black cherries.

#8.  "Baby you can drive your car!"

Be forwarned, the Davenports are home and feelin' the need for speed!

#7.  Dogs are man's best friend...not lunch.

enuff said.

#6.  Walking on the sidewalk is normal and safe.

In Hanoi, the sidewalk is part parking lot, and also an extra lane in the road when traffic is heavy. (and traffic is always heavy.)

#5.  Going to the supermarket and not being stared at!

Many times our shopping cart is subject to inspection by old women and kids who can't believe we really eat that much food! I'm often tempted to lie and tell them I'm shopping for my whole village!  We buy in quantity and freeze meat - they shop every day.

#4.  Grade A American beef, steaks, hamburger, hot dogs. All cooked on the grill!

Guard your grill on July 4th, folks...I'm hungry and aiming to gain some weight (only Doug)!

#3.  Moomer's Ice Cream!

Voted Best in the U.S. and now a major part of my weight gaining regimen!

#2.  Leelanau County, Michigan.

It really is Paradise, after all!

#1.  Family, Friends, Pets and our favorite Flag on the front porch!

Love you all! Here we come.