Dear readers,

Best Christmas wishes from California. There will probably be no snow, (the last was here half a century ago), but so far we had borsch with dumplings and poppy-seed cake. Polka Deli saved our Christmas Eve, although I did prepare the traditional Polish vegetable salad. In the pantry I still have special sausage, paté and chalva for breakfast. The American accent for today's dinner was the eggnog. The non-alcoholic version is very close to a kogel- mogel dessert. After singing couple of carols, we unwrapped presents symbolically. Traditionally, presents are opened the morning of December 25, although oftentimes a single present is exchanged Christmas Eve.  The day after Christmas, shoppers will line up to return gifts and buy new ones. 
And now we can also enjoy waiting for New Year:) 
                                                                                      

H.xx

Dental Care

I am publishing this entry late, as I recently had to cope with nagging dental issues that knocked me out for a while. My wisdom teeth wanted to come in, but there was no room; as a result, I was able to experience the American health care system first hand.

The nurse sat me down in the dentist chair and treated me to an exotic nature video while I waited. The dentist walked in, took a quick look in my mouth, and declared that I needed to see a specialist. Since I was in a lot of discomfort, and since I had an infection, the dentist personally phoned his friends, which could accept me on short notice.

I felt horrible, and at first I thought that I only needed a solid gargle. It was only when I read my patient card, when I realized that it was not enough, and learned that the teeth might need to go.

That same day I saw the surgeon. Aided by the friendly staff, I filled out the required documents, and I went straight to X-ray. Then a kind surgeon, who was ironically of Polish origin, saw me. He said that I was in good hands and prescribed me antibiotics. He added that we now often hear about the social and economic aspects of treatments and, therefore, it is best to remove all wisdom teeth in one swoop.

I also learned that I would be admitted the next day. Another patient postponed his appointment, because his health insurance did not cover such a procedure. I did not have to worry. Dean has a good employer, which means most of the costs will be covered. The cost of the surgery is not insignificant - about half of the median monthly household income in the United States.

The procedure was performed in a relaxed atmosphere and under anesthesia. Later, a nurse wheeled me to the car. After I got home, the surgeon himself gave me a call. He wanted to answer any questions and ask how I felt. A few days later, I received a letter of thanks for choosing the clinic and a request to assess the quality of service.

In the United States changes in the healthcare system are happening. The fraction of uninsured, compared to European standards, is surprisingly high. In principle, there is no distinction between the private and public health sector. American clinics remind me more the Polish private clinics. Apparently the quality of care depends on where one lives. From my experience I can say that in the state of Washington, it is of a very good quality.

Almost two weeks later I had a check-up, and I decided it was a good time to use the coupon for a free milkshake in McDonalds, which I had received at the clinic;)

I am attaching a holiday video promoting Obamacare.

Dear readers, I wish you pleasant holiday preparations. We are departing for Southern California this weekend, but I still dream of a White Christmas.

H.xx

                                                

Holiday Season

It is only the beginning of December and yet the festive season is quite present.

Every fourth Thursday of November Thanksgiving, the feast of ''thanksgiving to God for the fruits of the earth’’ is celebrated in the US. The roots of this tradition are religious and date back to the seventeenth, or maybe even to the sixteenth century. During these first celebrations white newcomers gathered together with the Indians. 

Unfortunately, later in time the settlers and the natives did not get along so well..

Most Americans spend this special Thursday preparing the family dinner. We decided to go to a local restaurant. Excellent turkey served with stuffing and cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes and pumpkin cheesecake, all completely fulfilled our culinary expectations. It is interesting to note that a unique dish is offered for vegetarians - tofurkey.

The holiday weekend cannot take place without the Black Friday, the day of frenzy markdowns and shopping. Fortunately, at the shopping mall, where we stopped, the atmosphere was rather calm. However on the way to Oregon, we passed parking lots filled to the brim. I must admit that the abundance of choice and discounts was a little overwhelming.  Additionally, not taking take advantage of the better deals is compared to losing a winning lottery ticket.

On Cyber Monday, those who were not shopped out could find more discounted prices of online clothes, telephones, computers, and airplane tickets.

It is common in the U.S. that Christmas celebration starts the day after Thanksgiving. So on Saturday we went to the artistic and eco-friendly Christmas Market. In the town of Corvallis we admired a local festive Parade. In the long march, I spotted, among others,  Boy Scouts , ecological groups (holding banner wishing you very green Christmas), as well as Mrs. Mayor and Senator from Oregon. I even noted a Polish flag being held by group of perhaps listeners of language school. The cold lasted, but we managed to see the illuminated track with Santa Claus himself.

It seems to me that the two holidays are as important to Americans. Let me add that, the last week – exceptionally ​​this year - the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah also took place.

Thanksgiving is perhaps more universal in its message and is not aimed at economic profit, as Christmas. There are a lot more television advertising and Christmas decoration around. However, all show a commitment to the common tradition and a desire to be together with the loved ones.

A few days ago, Dean brought from the store a miniature of a Christmas tree. From its fresh scent, I feel that the holiday season is not yet over.

H.xx  

                         

                                         

California Love

I put together the memories of recent weeks in a lucky seven California list:

 * On Nov. 10 our Big Day took place. The ceremony was secular, but to our request , charming officiant read the piece of biblical Hymn of Love. The Best man, lovely bridesmaids and an adorable flower girl all did a fantastic job. The party lasted until late evening hours. Everyone received favor boxes, filled with almonds and folk designed magnets, brought straight from Poland by my sister.  Cake cutting, surprise slideshow for guests and tossing the bouquet to Single Ladies song will remain for long in my memory.

* We really wanted to show our guests the Mission San Juan Capistrano, started by the Spanish Franciscans in the eighteenth century. It is famous for the “miracle of the swallows''. Every year they come back from Argentina exactly on St Joseph Day, which falls in mid-March. Even in California, November is a cold month for them, so we only saw their nests. Luckily, mystical chapel, extremely high and thin palm trees and beautiful gardens await visitors throughout the whole year.

* Newport Beach, where we all stayed is famous for its spacious and very clean beach (alcohol and dogs are not allowed on it). One of the brave guests took a refreshing swim in the Ocean. Cycling, extraordinary sunsets, burgers and hot dogs barbecue hosted by my father-in- law and rehearsal dinner in a buffet type Japanese restaurant– were our local attractions.

* In California, it's hard not be tempted by solid shopping. It seems to me that most of the stores in this beautiful state are bigger than elsewhere. When we were looking for clothes substitute for lost baggage, we found an enormous branch of national chain Forever 21. Abundant selection and concrete discounts immediately put everyone in a good mood.  It is no wonder that apparently tourists come to California just for shopping, to continue it later in Las Vegas.

*A little bit of culture. Although time was in value, we were able to see the Getty Villa (and some also the Hollywood Museum), founded in the last century by an oil tycoon.  After the ancient art exhibits and after walking around the impressive outdoor pool, we went for a drink on the beautiful Santa Monica Promenade. Another cultural itinerary highlight was a movie ''About Time” in an elegant theater, where the waiters deliver drinks and snacks to the screening room . .

* Happy Birthday Martha - a moving inscription read below our bowling score at the Irvine Lanes, where we went for my mother's birthday.  It was great fun, and the after party was continued with wedding cake leftovers and a tasty pizza. Dean received a higher mark than that those playing at the same time local league. #proudwifemoment

* For the final lucky seven, let me go back to wedding. As it is a tradition, my dad spoke during the round of the newlyweds families toast. He wisely referred to the Polish poet Zbignew Herbert - "be faithful and go" to the line of American poet Walt Whitman  ‘’The Song of the Open Road ''. After two weeks our Californian voyage come to an end, but I'm sure, the coming ones will be, also for you Dear readers, similarly great:)

H.xx

                                                    

Belle-vue

Before we welcome our wonderful wedding guests in California, a few words of our area.

One of the candidates running in the current election to the city council defined Bellevue as a “beautiful, diverse world- class community.'' Approximately 130, 000 people live here, of about a third of which have  Asian roots .  I also often encounter Russians. Bellevue is the fifth largest metropolitan area of the Washington state. Interestingly, when Bellevue’s status changed to a city in 1953, its community numbered of about six thousand people.  

We live in a Bellevue high rise conveniently located in an elegant, yet cozy downtown area. Our complex is populated primarily by a multinational community of students and white collar workers, which is really not surprising, given the proximity of several colleges and Microsoft’s main campus. 

One can visit hair and beauty stylists here, or stop off at a tasty French Bakery for a snack. On Halloween, we gave out candy and nut to the beautifully dressed children of our neighbors.

As for Bellevue’s history, homestead  settlers are the  pioneers of this King County city who, as across all America received raw land as a part of agreement. Our compensation for moving to Bellevue was six free public transport tickets.

Skyscrapers in the center, surrounded by both small and impressive size family houses make Bellevue today unrecognizable from the old photographs that I found in the chronicles. Ironically, skirmishes with the Indians led Seattle residents to explore unknown territories and helped its development.

Beautiful views of the Cascade mountains (in a way they remind me of the Polish famous peak Giewont), low crime rates and good level of the health and school education, still attract new settlers. All these advantages contributed to Bellevue’s high ranking  in the survey conducted by Livability.com among smaller towns in the United States.

It is difficult to compare Bellevue to any European cities I know. In a way, probably because of the cultural mix of its people, it reminds me of the suburbs of London and Copenhagen. People are very polite, helpful and are willing to listen to stories about Europe.

In our free time we go to the cinema, bowling or go shopping at Lincoln Square  mall, which to me seems like the center of Bellevue. Other attractions include the Bellevue Arts Museum , and to my delight, many sushi restaurants . Golf courses (stay tuned for a post on golf), and Japanese botanical garden are also city’s urban advantages.  In the Downtown, I have also seen a church named intriguingly Mars Hill , as well as the assembly of numerous denominations of the Christianity.

I learned that Bellevue got its name from its first post office, which was so named for its beautiful view. Bellevue has changed over the years, but it remains charming, and true to its name, reminding its present residents of, I hope, their beautiful opportunities.

                                           

H.xx

Jack O'Lantern

Autumn is here. Its presence means colorful leaves are all around. At every turn one can spot gourds and winter squashes, and pumpkins. Pumpkins appear on the covers of newspapers, food packages, and store decorations.

In "The View," hosts encourage viewers to send in pictures of Pumpkins. During "The Today Show," the recipe for Pumpkin Ricotta Cheesecake was featured. Starbucks clients can warm themselves with a Pumpkin Spice Latte, which is now being introduced to Polish cafés.  It is worth mentioning that just a month ago, American vegans protested that their seasonal coffee is not served with a soymilk.

Last weekend we went to the Bose Family Farm, which during the fall turns into a pumpkin patch. We did not pick out any pumpkins, although there were at least nineteen different kinds. Rather, we spent two hours searching for hidden punch card stations in a quite complicated Corn Maze.  The ones who found all of the stations entered their completed punch cards into a November price drawing for half a hog.

Those who carted this typically orange fruit home might prepare pumpkin bread or a soup for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. A new study, involving American restaurants, show that the Pumpkin Pie dessert is not as popular as it once was. It now accounts for only 3 percent of orders. It has been replaced by now popular curries, cheesecakes and ravioli, all prepared with pumpkin. This has met very much to the liking of Americans. During the year, sales of products containing pumpkin have already grown by 19 percent.

No one certainly can survive Halloween without pumpkins. The custom of displaying Jack O 'Lanterns took root on a new continent thanks to Irish immigrants; it was the Irish who began the tradition of scaring with lightened faces. First, they carved them in beets, turnips and even in the potatoes. But when they came in to North America, they discovered that the pumpkins would be a better fit. The name comes from a fairy tale, about a young man named Jack, who died night before All Souls' Day. The young man played games with the devil so he could not go to hell. He was also very greedy, so the way to heaven was also closed to him.  His fate was to wander between heaven and hell, with only an ember inside a hollow turnip to light his way. The Jack O'Lantern gives the effect of the brightness of the carved pumpkin faces, referring to the popular belief in wandering souls who remain on the earth before they reach the afterlife.

And finally, while nibbling on my Pumpkin donut, let me share an English rhyme:

Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
sitting on the wall.
Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
tip and fall.
Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
rolling down the street.
Pumpkin, Pumpkin,
good to eat!!

H.xx

                                                 

                                                  

# SYTD

Move to another country, get married, buy new furniture, cook a four course dinner and throw the best party ever - are some of the suggestions of the American blogger and author of hit - clip I Quit,  that should be accomplished before one hits thirty. A few of them I can already check off, but I still have to complete the organization of an American-styled wedding.

Almost every day I watch “The Four Weddings”, in which four wives -to-be mutually assess the effectiveness of their Big Day. The prize is a dream honeymoon. Thanks to the program, I have already taken part in a reception themed Barbecue Americana, a Greek wedding (in Orthodox ceremony the couple dressed in gold crowns do not exchange vows but only circle the altar several times) as well as Jewish-Catholic, and Russian (one of the highlights was a Siberian tiger) nuptials. Other popular reality wedding shows are “Say Yes to the Dress” (# SYTD) and “I Found My Gown.” I've never heard a Polish accent on any of these shows; maybe I should audition for the next edition? :)

I can also find planning help in bookstores. Barnes & Noble has a wide selection of all kinds of tutorials like “Wedding for Dummies” and magazines such as: “Bridal Guide” and “The Seattle Bride.”

One of the interesting American wedding traditions is the rehearsal dinner for the families of the newlyweds-to-be, which follows the ceremony practice. Almost all brides and grooms in the States create their own wedding registry, which is a list of suggestions for gifts. I was surprised that the most popular item that couples requested for the wedding was ,,Cards Against Humanity.''

Another custom, which I am sure you've seen immortalized in many films, is the extensive entourage of bridesmaids and groomsmen, called the wedding party. Bridesmaids usually wear the same dresses, and gentlemen put on very similar or matching suits. The same colors are in fact a way of attracting the bad spirits that might attempt to harm the bride...

According to a survey conducted by the Knot in 2012, an average of four to five bridesmaids attend to the bride, and a similar number of groomsmen support the groom. The Maid of Honor and Best Man have the highest ranks in the hierarchy.

They often help with the finances, and therefore the married couple offer them expensive gifts, as an expression of gratitude and appreciation for their support.

The wedding ceremonies performed by the officiants are also not conventional: ceremony candles, releasing a white pigeon or butterflies, mutual tree watering, which is often chosen by the patchwork families, a sand blending ceremony, or the simple exchange of a rose.

According to the aforementioned survey, 141 is the average number of visitors attending an American wedding, which will drive the average budget over $20,000 when the cost of the Honeymoon is included. The largest weddings occur in Iowa and Utah, with typically over 200 people, and the smallest weddings occur in the popular eloping states of Hawaii and Nevada, around about 70 people.  Popular wedding venues are public parks, golf courses, botanical gardens, beach and boats. Interestingly, only about 35% of the young couples choose a religious ceremony.

Our wedding will take place with a small circle of family and friends. We chose a British style pub and restaurant in beautiful Corona del Mar. Maybe, dear friends and readers, you have an idea for our signature drink, which will be served during the so called ''cocktail-hour''?

H.xx