Thursday November 24, 2011
Malibu, California
Abundant Sunshine
Happy Thanksgiving from beautiful Malibu. I'm taking it easy again this Thanksgiving and enjoying the week with Ms. Yuki. Caught a 24 hour bug (probably from flying too much) but recovered in time to make Yuki and I Thanksgiving lunch.
My recent business trip to Vietnam made me think of all the things I need to be thankful for this year on this special day. I am thankful for
- Yuki (aka Yuki-chan or Ms. Yuki): What can I say, it was meant to be. Thank you for comforting me while mourning for Skipper and making me happy.
- John Bellucci (RIP): John hired me into IBM fresh out of college. It was a bad time for college graduates due to the recession. John took a chance on me and hired me. I am so grateful he gave me the opportunity as working for IBM has made my black and white monochrome life, full of color. I not only met my special friends through IBM but I was able to see the world including living and working in my mother's country Japan for 3 years.
- My Parents: My guide in Hanoi told me last week " You must have good parents. You are accepting of our culture." I didn't know how to reply except to say Thank You. But while on the long plane ride back to LA, I thought, yes, my parents brought my sister and I up to be multi-cultural and to not be afraid to explore. But most importantly, they taught us to be accepting of one's culture as it makes you a more complete human being.
- Amy and Michael: Without them, I could not enjoy my travels as much as I'll be worried about Yuki-chan. They were the perfect Auntie and Uncle for Skipper and have embraced Yuki-chan as their own.
And this is what Yuki and I had for Thanksgiving
My first brined Turkey. Found a "brining bag" at Gelsons. Makes brining so much easier!
Brined Roasted Turkey , roasted brussel sprouts and mushrooms drizzled with Arbequina Olive Oil, and the best mashed potatoes ever from chef Hugh Acheson
Onion and Garlic Stuffing made in my tiny Le Creuset dutch oven
And Ms. Yuki had turkey and vegetable risotto topped with the roasted turkey (dark meat only for her!)
..and we are thankful for your friendship and that you allow us to spoil the sweetest angels (The Skipper and Ms Yuki) here at home while you conquer the world, love Amy & Michael
Was Jim Bellucci’s real name John?? Hey nice job with the blog
OMG! Glenn??? from IBM??? and yes its John, I can’t believe I made that mistake.