Carole and I just got back from a trip that started in Venice and Verona and then by ship to Athens, Greece.  The rich history of Europe, at least to this American's eye, leads to a sense of permanence.  We visited a church that celebrated its 2000th year anniversary.

            The purpose of this trip was to attend a function of the International Union of Bakers.  They were honoring a very dear friend of our family and the Baking Industry in the United States, Mr. Hans Nadler.

Rich Reinwald, Jeanette Riesterer, Hans Nadler, Minerva Nadler, Karl Riesterer, and Carole Reinwald

            A trip like this took us out of our comfortable surroundings and made me realize how many things in our daily lives we took for granted.  How the light switches work, the shower stalls, breakfast, paying bills, asking for service.  You got out onto the roadways, expecting the rules of the road same as here.  What a surprise.  We took a train from Venice to Verona and stood in front of a board waiting for track assignments to be made.  I thought, a-ha just like Penn Station.  Once assigned we went to board the train but could not figure out our ticket.  It had a class and different number on it and Carole said she doesn't think we can board the car I was going to.  I said we better board because the train is leaving in a few minutes.  It was confusing and Carole was beginning to get a bit tense.  Then it happened.  A nice woman from Switzerland sensing our confusion came and helped.  She made me see that no matter how much things are same or different; one thing never to take for granted is the interaction with other people.

            Coming home to Huntington; I feel blessed.  The people that come into the bakery make me enjoy what I do.  My fear today is, like I learned in Europe, that I have taken people for granted.  As we approach Thanksgiving, I want you to know it really is an honor to be able to make baked goods to help in your family celebrations.  You are all special to us and hopefully we are special to you and your family.

            A thought for this holiday season is to look at your loved ones, friends, and co-workers and ask, "Am I taking them for granted?"

            We will be putting out a special newsletter before Thanksgiving, but please check out the side panel for our Thanksgiving schedule.

Enjoy your days,

Rich Reinwald.

Venice at 5:30am (Baking Hours)