Supplies

ALBANY, N.Y. - My family held a small party to celebrate the beginning of my latest Chinese adventure. Many people came, and much to my surprise, several brought gifts. The gesture was unnecessary, but appreciated.

A theme emerged from the open packages: food. One person brought Japanese Melon candy. Another, two pounds of Twizzlers. Someone else gave a package of fruit gummies.

I've got enough candy to maintain a sugar high from the Baltic Sea to the Pacific. I'm going to pack some of these treats (others will probably serve as a refreshment during the lengthy packing process), and share them with people I meet along the way.

May we all be hyper together.