On the Edge

So back at the border we got out of the car and took papers, passports etc into the homeland security office. They were so welcoming.
"Get in line," they sneered as we entered.
So for 20 minutes we stood behind a motley bunch of Mexicans and orientals, watching nervously as they were called up and given the third degree. The place was decorated in a tasteful hardboard with fashionable black and white tiles on the floor. Just lovely.
They were so concerned for everyone's welfare that no one could use the toilet without permission, and no one was allowed to leave the building unless released.
A Mexican woman was being interviewed in a special room while her children ran round the room screaming as their dad ignored them. How lovely it is to hear little ones enjoying themselves.
Eventually it was our turn.
"Why am I looking at this?" asked the kindly American customs official as I gave him my passport. "You're ok til 2010."
It was only Ross who needed updating at this time. Phew. At least that meant I would be ok. I started to wonder how much the cab fare from Detroit to Chicago would be? Not too much. It's only just over 300 miles, after all.
But Ross was ok too. A few rubber stamps and $6 later, we were free to go.
What a relief! We headed off into Detroit and back towards our old/new lives. As we drove through the delightful derelict houses surrounding this old industrial town I noted that they hadn't yet had time to decorate their homes for Christmas. There were broken wire fences and hobos walking the streets. How wonderful to live in America!