A Major Milestone (2024)

We're back in the Carolinas already for a quick snack.

But this time we keep driving.

For an unannounced visit.

They're taken completely by surprise.

But take it in stride.

After a nice little meal…

It's time to see what 80 years on Earth gets you.

A book.

And some stale old grape juice.

And some stale old grains.

Better luck next time!

Brandon and Katy leave me behind.

With some drinks to pass the time.

But not before we hit the old stomping grounds.

For tragic American crimes against classic European dishes.

That's not the only tragic American crime I encounter.

But things settle down.

Eric's house used to be full of dogs, but now there's a cat.

Oh, it's also still full of dogs.

A non-toller has snuck in to the pack.

I think the toller might suspect something.

But after careful consideration…

The case is dropped.

They give me a taste of what Sweden is missing.

And remind me of days gone by.

Back when we used to drink 5 free beer.

With this guy! I failed to surprise him.

Martin's fiancé and cats are newcomers.

Martin's husky is also a newcomer.

Somebody is mildly delayed to celebrate dad's 80th.

Most of his extended family, in fact! They dial in remotely.

But they're delivered in person by Dana.

In the meantime, I have another surprise for Martin.

And this one actually works.

A surprise Robert appears!

There's a bit of light reading.

And a bit of light swimming.

And then all of the groups join together.

The first full mingle since before I moved.

And the first one full of midgets.

Mom is still thrilled that I'm staying with them.

Her little cat, significantly less so.

She lets me know my place.

Her brother doesn't mind me nearly as much.

Dad's deer hasn't made up its mind yet.

But a baby's got to eat.

I've got things to take care of at the parents' place.

Some special, heavy packing.

And plenty more film to process.

I find some pleasant memories while packing.

And some truly historical relics.

Dad shows me how it was done in the 50s.

And I bid another farewell to Atlanta, and everyone around it.

I have to get back to the nordics.

With a lot more luggage than I left with.

And no idea where to put all of this junk.

The records get a nice new home.

My jalapeños have been doing great without me.

But all I want after a few weeks in America is vegetables. Precious vegetables!