I’ve had a few people ask me lately how we’re finding life in the US, and what I like/dislike about living here. So I figured I’d write about it. I’m going to kick it off with what I love about living in America, I’ll write another post about the things I don’t like, so stay tuned for that one.
Nature
Okay, maybe I’m wrong, maybe I just appreciate nature more nowadays, or maybe it’s based on where we lived in England compared to where we live here, but there’s so much nature here. There’s not often a day that we don’t wake up with a bunny in our (tiny) yard (garden), see a handful of different bird species, or stumble across an insect we’ve never seen before. It’s everywhere and it’s booming and it is truly beautiful.
Patriotism/the Stars and Stripes
I’m not sure there’s anyone else who loves their country quite as much as Americans do – there’s a flag on every telephone pole in our town, and on most porches! I think it’s awesome that they’re so proud of who they are and where they come from. Also the stars and stripes just looks cool. Patriotism + a cool flag = a winning combo.
Sports culture
I’m not athletic in any way, and usually I’m not big into sports, but it’s such a large part of the culture here that you can’t help but get caught up in it. It brings people together, and creates a great atmosphere, even when you aren’t at the game itself. I never thought I’d say it, but I’m here for it (Go Ravens!).
Community
There is such a strong sense of community here. In England people often keep to themselves. Here people are all about coming together; whether it’s the local HOA, moms’ club, or gaming group. Community is promoted much more strongly here, and lots of people get involved supporting one another.
People are friendly
This one goes hand in hand with my point about the community, but people are friendlier here (big generalization I know). Every one of my neighbors will say hi, and ask about my day if I bump into them. The person behind me in the grocery store checkout line is usually up for a chat, as are the majority of people at the playground, bank, or Starbucks.
National and state parks
Again with the nature I know, but I really do love it. There is SO much wild space here, and it’s wonderful. We don’t have to travel far before we’re met with towering woods and sparkling lakes that we could explore for weeks. Need I say more?
Celebrations
I’m always up for a celebration, as is every American it would seem. All of the holidays are celebrated on a much greater scale here, and who couldn’t love that. It’s a great opportunity to come together with your family and/or friends to have fun, and to celebrate with each other.
Drive-thru everything
I won’t lie. I kinda hate that I love this one, but the convenience is so nice, especially when you have kids. There’s a drive through for my coffee, lunch, prescription, mail drop off, and groceries, should I want it, it’s amazing.
Air Conditioning
No longer does hot weather interfere with my sleep (although ⅔ of my children still do, lol). Summer is one of my favorite times of the year, something about waking up to the sun shining puts a hop in my step. However it’s always meant a rubbish night’s sleep before, since we’ve never had air-con. No more hot stuffy rooms, or being woken by a noisy neighbor after leaving a window open, it’s great.
School pride
I love that all of the schools (at least in my experience) have mascots, and they promote a sense of community and pride within the school. Our school has school shirts, a weekly newsletter of what’s happened at school/what’s coming up, and every morning they do birthday announcements, as well as various other announcements to keep everyone in the loop. It’s really nice to feel so involved with the school, and supported by them.
Ranch everything
I’m just gonna throw this one on the end because it’s pretty different from the others, but it’s something I love none-the-less. I’ll admit it sounded gross to me, and so I never went out of my way to try it. However, as fate would have it, a side of ranch came with a meal we ordered, and I’m thankful it did, because it was good!
There you have it friends, the main things that I love about America. I’d love to hear what you love about the USA! And if you’re interested in what I dislike about the America, you can read that post here.
Lizzie xo