I love where I live, and do you know why? People are so weird here that I look quite normal. There is nothing like fitting in and when the range of people is so wide, you can't help but fit somewhere.
My friend and I went to Turkish food. We ate outside, and as we're dining this bald guy goes by in a convertible, red Slob (Saab) and he is blasting "Staying Alive" by the Bee Gees. We just giggled right out loud. I just looked at my friend and said, "There is a man who is comfortable in his skin."
What happens when there are so many cultures in one place, is you really have to blend. It's the groups that stay in their own mix that have the most trouble here. The Chinese have a tradition that when a woman gives birth, her mother comes and does everything. The mother cannot get up and she cannot drink hot or cold, she doesn't wash her hair -- there are quite a few things, but it's a nice way that moms get to transition into motherhood without too much exertion.
So one of my Chinese friends who is married to a German man, her mother couldn't come from China, so she didn't get pampered. Her husband told her, "If you don't wash your hair for a month, I'm kicking you out of the bed."
She explains that this is supposed to ward off back problems later in life as a woman. Her mother in law told her, she had no problems, get out of bed.
In some ways, I'm torn about giving up all your culture and living here. There are some really fabulous traditions -- but the truth is, if our slob-driving friend can find room, there's room for everyone. That's why I love where I live.
Take the time to appreciate your surroundings and thank God for all you get to see in a day. I've learned which barristas don't put enough ice in my espresso. So noticing things is very helpful. Remember this. : ) 
www.KristinBillerbeck.com
Aaaaack! You would have to say that. I currently live in the Midwest. I hate it here. I am a northeast kinda girl. I have to daily remind myself that God planted us here and we can't leave until He allows us to. What do I like about the Midwest? It's a really short list:
We have a great library system in our town.
Bald eagles winter along the river just minutes from my home.
There are some fabulous restaurants on the other side of the river (mmm even Turkish! yum-o)
Our church is full of wonderful people.
My kids go to a great Christian school.
See....told you it was a short list.
Posted by: Suzanne | October 10, 2007 at 10:15 AM
Ok, I have to say Kristin, I usually completely agree with everything that you say, but not today.
First off, I have a red convertible saab...and I LOVE it! I've wanted one forever, and I finally got one a couple years ago -- new to me, but 6 years old (8 now).
And, I've never really loved Silicon Valley either. Granted, the weather is awesome, and the scenery beautiful, but it's too busy for me. Of course, I LOVE to read all about it in your books because I've spent a lot of time up there visiting family and friends...but I'm a midwest girl now, and I don't think I'll ever move back to the "Left Coast." =)
Posted by: Sally | October 10, 2007 at 11:21 AM
The question is, Sally, do you own the Bee Gees album to make it complete? I'm not a Saab fan, sorry, did you notice I gave Seth one in my books? LOL But I think every girl should have a convertible, and I'm proud of you. Currently, I have a minivan with a sunroof and it does NOT cut it!
I'm pretty ADD so I love the pace here, but it does drive my hubby nuts too, so I feel your pain. But it's my home, and like the red dirt of Tara for Scarlett, it's my place of solace.
I really wish I could live elsewhere, you wouldn't believe the price of my dumpy house. LOL KB
Posted by: KristinBeck | October 10, 2007 at 11:30 AM
I had forgotten that Seth had a Saab...but mine is much cooler than his! LOL
And I'm sad to say that within 6 months I will be forced to depart with my dear Saab...since we are expecting our first little one, and I can't convince hubby to let me lift the car seat over the side of the Saab with the top down. I will deparately miss my convertible!! Maybe in another 20 years, I can get another one??
Posted by: Sally | October 12, 2007 at 02:43 PM