Where I'm From

Where I'm From- I wrote this poem a couple of years ago and ever since turning 30 (October 3rd) I have been feeling a bit nostalgic. It is based on a famous poem. I used the format to create my own 'Where I'm From' poem. I posted it on my blog in 2006, but decided to post it again.



Where I'm From


by Shoshauna Clark



I am from safety pins, hair pins and coconut hair oil,
from the stench of urine soaked nappies and chai tea.

I am from rain, monsoon rains, roaring down.
I am from mango trees
and the jasmine bush
whose perfume still captures hold of me.

I'm from chocolate cake and key lime pie,
from root canals and panadol.
I'm from the well-versed and the ill-mannered,
from the alcoholic and the self-absorbed.
I'm from som tam, cha ca, kra pao, banh beo
and pani puri.

I'm from Bangkok International Airport and United Nations International School,
biscuits, momos and tomato chutney.
I’m from humming 747s
and purple vibrating floors.

I’m from misty, foggy, Himalayan views,to bright, blinding Colorado skies.
I’m from Sukhumvit city lights, sweltering Calcutta days
and black croaking crows.

I’m from big blade fans and thin worn sheets.
I’m from moth balls and mehndi stains.
I’m from squatting toilets, cockroaches
and gleaming marble floors.

I’m from hotels.
Ahh, yes hotels.
Oberoi Grand, room service, tight-fitted cold bedding
and Orchard Road.

I’m from blistering cold Hanoi days.
I’m from stupid young love and crowded streets.
I’m from both “calm noodles” and “no noodles,”
smiles, and jealousy.

French Broad Chocolate Lounge

While I was in Asheville North Carolina, I had the chance to visit the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. It is was a wonderful experience. It is hard to describe the ambiance of the place, but it is dimly lit and they serve both chocolate & wine. I bought an assortment of truffles. I bought two boxes as gifts and already opened one box! The Masala Chai truffle was amazing and really tasted like chai!

Travel, part 1: North Carolina & Tennessee

I just arrived in Nashville-TN after spending a week traveling across North Carolina. I have not written in awhile and have thought about closing the blog down. However, after reading some of my old entries, I decided not to. This blog is mainly for me. I enjoy looking over some of the things I have written in the past.

Chapel Hill was as green as ever. I went and had a great bowl of soup at a local eatery. I then spent a couple of days in Asheville, which BTW is absolutely gorgeous! I spent my 30th birthday there! I had a great time- the hotel sent up a big fruit/cheese/wine basket for my Birthday.

Again, I just arrived in Nashville, TN. Not much to talk about so far. I found NC to be much prettier. Who knows, after I see a bit more, I might change my mind. I went over to Neely's and had some barbecue (the couple that started the restaurant have a show on the Food Network called "Down Home with the Neelys). It was quite good.

I am going to be on the road for 4 more weeks. I will be home on October 31st, just in time for Halloween. I miss Khazana. My Mom is with me this time around and that makes it easier. Not so lonely.

Politics is consuming my trip. If I am not working, I am watching t.v. and if I am not watching t.v., I am surfing the political blogs and news networks on the Internet.

As many of you know, Preya got a job in Thailand. I am very happy for her, but I miss her. It is so weird being away from her. I don't think we have ever really live apart. I also miss the international world! I have now turned 30 and I feel like I have been in the U.S. forever. Time to start searching to see what else is out there.

Anyhow, I am going to hit the sack. I have a full day tomorrow. Maybe I will write later in the week when I get to Memphis.

You betcha I will keep ya updated ;)