Having lived overseas for seven years I've picked up a barely there accent that I don't think too much about until times when I return to the states. Prior to becoming one of 'them', I've known people that go on far-away-land excursions and return with quirky twangs that sound... well... fake. Although I am fully mindful of this and intend on keeping it well under control upon my return, there are some terms I am bound to toss in when I arrive...
I'm an animal person. From the decade that I've been a vegetarian to my dwindling ability to visit zoos. And even more than being a general animal person... I'm a dog person. As my departure approaches I can genuinely say I will miss my beloved puppies, Henry and Lily, more than anything. In fact, I'd even go as far to say that if they were coming with me... I doubt I would feel 'homesick' once during my trip. Like I briefly mentioned, I grew up...
My parents hate New York City. They both grew up in Jersey and put a lot of energy into raising their five girls outside the grip of the inner city... so the fact that their youngest just can't seem to get enough of New York doesn't sit well with either of them, especially my mother. Every time I talk to Mom she has a new horror story about New York. When we spoke this morning the topic of discussion switched to 'Did you hear about the guy in...
Lots of people refer to my writing as a 'hobby', particularly during one of my 'Why God why can't I just make a living doing what I enjoy?' speeches. During these moments people usually tell me things like 'I enjoy mountain biking and I don't make a living doing that' or more commonly 'No one actually likes their job Gretchen, that's why you do what you like during your spare time, as a hobby.' Hobbies aren't supposed to be stressful. Don't get...
Down here in Australia us Yankees are viewed as mad patriots. Last night when this was raised at a party, I, the outnumbered Yank in a six to one ratio said that I don't reckon we're the flag waving, national anthem singing, pro-political gang of country worshipers we're made out to be. We're just... i don't know... people? A fellow party patron called me out with 'What about the pledge of allegiance then?' My new Aussie mate spent some time...