Homesick Roast

November 17, 2009

Confession: ever since our return from Turkey last week I have suddenly felt very homesick. In the middle of the big pile of unopened mail, there was a special treasure: a letter from my Aunt Carol. 5 pages of her distinct and familiar handwriting. 5 pages of her voice, loud and clear. 5 pages of family news, tiny tidbits of daily life. 5 pages making me laugh, yearn for more, while also making me tear up and want to be back home right this instant. I have said it before and I will say it again. Letters are some of my most important belongings. Amazing power in those written words. And so here I am halfway around the world, in the midst of a grand adventure, doing more than I ever imagined possible, and at thirty-six years old I suddenly feel just as homesick as I did when I went away to that horrible, stomach wrenching week of 4-H camp in middle school. I know it wasn't just the letter. It was also leaving our good friends in Turkey. It's also just the natural timing of things. It always seems to happen during the first year in a new place when the excitement of our arrival starts to wear off and the reality of all the changes suddenly start to hit me. I know it will pass. But it's here for right now, percolating in my stomach, and I can't seem to shake it. So I got up this morning and decided to make my favorite comfort meal. My mama's Sunday Dinner: Cajun Roast, Rice and Gravy, Corn, and Potato Salad. It might make me feel even more homesick but at least it will fill my stomach and give me a little taste of home.
Dana said...

Rice, roast, peas, and gravy -- the roast was made in a cast iron pot, the peas with a roux, and the rice was always long-grained. . . at my Maw Maw's house on Sunday after mass. Maybe I was at that 4H camp with you in middle school -- mine was co-ed! I agree about the pastalaya -- but they all love it.
Hope the sun is shining in you heart, soon.
Dana

likeschocolate said...

Sound wonderful! I am sorry you are homesick today!

Mama said...

Comfort food always helps me when I am homesick. I have been living abroad and far, far away from my family for many years and still often I also feel this way. This shall pass too, but a home made meal always helps. Sending love your way! We miss you here.

The Artful Parent said...

Oh wow! I haven't visited your corner of the blog world in a while. How long have you been in Italy? Sorry about the homesickness! -Jean

Mom2Isabel said...

For me: roast beef with a salty crispy crust, whipped potatoes (pronounced pah-DAY-dahs in Boston)with a TON of real butter, thick rich gravy, corn and a tall glass of cold milk.

We miss you - your compassion, your intelligence and your sense of adventure in the world of nature.

Laureen and Isabel

Karen said...

Ack, I'm on the other end of it, suffering heartache at the loss of Italy. C and I keep saying "6 months, it'll take 6 months" but it really does take much longer to settle, adjust.

5orangepotatoes said...

Homesickness is one of the most incurable things when you in the midst of it. I hope you feel better soon!

lisa

holly b said...

Mmmm, that food sounds delish. I guess that's why they call it comfort food. :)

Corinne said...

I know just what I'd make if I felt that way too :) Thinking of you...

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