Mission Accomplished
Is this how a member of a bomber crew felt upon return from a WWII mission upon sighting the cliffs of Dover and England below? Maybe. At the end of a visit to my home town, I hope to board the American Airlines jet shortly, for transport back to Chicago. A visit to my hometown is always a visit with my younger self and memories with their freight of unpleasant emotion. Nevertheless I accomplished what I came to do. I feel satisfaction and relief.
When I have opportunity to spend time in Durham, I am reminded of Southern food. Items on a menu that are indigenous to the local Carolina culture. A friend reminded me of fried bologna which I last tasted as a kid. Doesn’t frying improve the flavor of just about anything? I was delighted when I saw this sign. No, I did not stop and place an order.
A must for a visit here is to patronize Hog Heaven Barbecue for a plate of Bar-B-Que and Brunswick stew, yams and coleslaw. After this long anticipated feast while washing my hands in the restroom this artwork caught my attention. Who would not agree with the sentiment expressed? Maybe eating Bar-B-Que together would help heal our political divisions? I am willing to try.
Another place that I visited for the first time was the Alivia’s Durham Bistro. We were attracted by the spacious patio, the opportunity to have a meal outside. 
Our waiter shared with us his story of having come to Durham from Connecticut. He said that he loved living here because of the diversity and the low cost of living. When asked about the eclectic menu he said that there was no rhyme or reason because the chef wanted freedom to do whatever he wanted to do. The short ribs shepherd’s pie 
was delicious. I’d order it again.
The moments that we spent having desert at the hip 21c Museum Hotel lounge were quite special. The white contemporary decor and the art all around us lent energy to the space. My daughter and I enjoyed the conversation that we shared surrounded by such 
a good vibe in the room. The lime mousse that was served was outstanding.
That is enough of the highlights of my home town which has changed markedly for the better. I have changed as well. Progress is an ideal, something that is held in the mind. It is not to be taken for granted. Credit needs to be given when and where it is due for the meaning and beauty that has been added to this place that I once called home.
