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When I taught school I used to always observe my feelings carefully during the first few days after returning from a long break. I figured that if I wasn’t happy to be with my students after relaxing with friends and family, then perhaps I should consider a change (new grade, new school, new career?) during the following school year.

That system worked well as a gauge for how much I was enjoying my current setting. By that measure, I’m in a very good place at the moment. Coming back to Bangkok feels just right. As I jogged down our little street on the first morning following my arrival, I found myself drinking in all kinds of delightful little details of Thai life.

I’m not taking anything away from the U.S., which was lovely and battery-charging and blissfully free of humidity.

It’s just that it feels great to be back in the Big Mango. People are smiling and sauntering. Dogs are lying on the sidewalk. In my head is a list of dishes I want to order at my favorite eating spots.