welcome back party

My friends Michelle and Tom had a party at their place yesterday to welcome me back to Toronto. 'Twas lots of fun, with a big "Welcome Home" banner, cake, yummy food, chatting with friends. Michelle's mom made a type of Japanese rice I love (my mom used to make it) with shiitake mushrooms; I pigged out on it. The kids all latched onto Michelle's brother, Gary, who played Chase and Hide and Seek with them for most of the party (after the party, Annie said she wished Gary would come live with them). David Barker gave me a very cool Star Wars Episode I Destroyer Droid Watch.

I had a wonderful time, and was truly touched by all of it. I've known some of the people at the party for over twenty years; we were very close during university days (which gives you an idea of how ancient I am). I used to publish a newsletter for our group called "The Electric Penguin" back then (hence my new personal domain name!). Jeff and I brought some old issues to the Real Millennium Party. I'm toying with the idea of resurrecting the publication as an online 'zine.

But most of all, I am very glad to be back home. :-)