The flight back was uneventful. The good thing is that I don't think I got sick, at least I am not sick now (sitting at the airport in Phoenix waiting for a ride).

Descending into LA was strange.  The amount of smoke and haze reminded me of New Delhi.  Around the city huge columns of smoke climbed into the sky.

My time on the ground at LAX was almost constant motion.  After claiming my pack and clearing customs I headed to Southwest. The were able to get me on an earlier flight and even got me in the A boarding group, even though the flight was scheduled to leave within the hour. 

The terminal was dotted with USC crimson.  Big guys with "Simpson" football jerseys, students ahead of me in line with their logo caps on backwards all on their way to Phoenix for the USC-ASU football game. The place buzzed with excitement when the trainers and some third stringers from their football team llined up to board an America West flight a few gates over.  This game is so big that I had read about it in the "Straights Times" in Singapore.

Back in Phoenix it feels strange to be here.  Due to construction that has just started I had to wander around for a bit to find my way. 

Instead of the bright saris and salweez kamisa favored in India, I am very aware of the halter tops and tank tops in Phoenix.  It didn't take long to get used to the modesty of India.  Even more noticeable is the American stand-offishness. Everyone stands more than an arms reach away from strangers. If more than 5 people are on an elevator then others will wait for the next one.  My ability to pass the time talking to anyone seems to only work in India or with people from India.  Feeling a bit awkward in business dress but with a 100 pound backpack I cue up the Grateful Dead on the iPod, and get out the Blackberry to post this, creating an isolating wall of technology, quickly reassimilating to America.  I am excited to be home, but sure miss Mother India.

Shawn