Where are you from?

After a travel hiccup that resulted in new flights, we were routed through Boston. I was not dressed for Boston weather and especially not snow. But because their international flights require taking a bus to another terminal, I flip flopped my way through the snow.

With minimal sleep, and a time change that I’m still not sure if it’s 6 or 7 hours, we arrived tired and hungry. The concierge recommended a nearby place, housed in a building constructed in 1487, which turned into a delightful outdoor dining experience overlooking a canal.

After a quick welcome and exchange of pleasantries, our server asked, “Are you Americans or Canadians?” I chuckled because my accent has been mistaken for lots of places (AL, NC, and TN for example), but never Canada. After we responded, she continued, “I can never tell you apart but you are always the nicest.” I exhaled, because people have lots of opinions of Americans so I was relieved her experience had been positive.

After lunch, we had a leisurely afternoon exploring on foot. As I slow down, I’m trying to stay fully present, engaged. It means I lingered a little longer at lunch, meandered while taking in the architecture, and engaged in some playful banter with a shopkeeper. More on that later…