american-ized

Americanized--is that a word?

This morning i ventured out with my mom...and i unexpectedly found myself going into two of the most culture-shockish places.  Kroger and Target.  If there is such a thing as Super Kroger then Jackson has it.  oh my word...I m sure some local Jacksonians thought I had totally lost it b/c i walked around with my mouth hanging out partly b/c the store is new but mainly because i was having complete culture shock.  I saw one aisle and then directly went and found my mom and said all too loudly..."They have a whole aisle devoted just to chips!"  I then illustrated for my mom what would constitute as the Malawi version of the cheese selection there compared to the American whole wall full of cheese here.  Mom even pointed out the speciality food selection with a designated Oriental aisle followed by an International aisle.  I felt more at home in those aisles than I did in the chip or bread area. Interesting. 

Target is a whole different scenario.  I dont want to be overwhelmed the week we are packing to return so tried to pick up a few things that other missionaries have asked us to bring back...not a great idea.  Should have gotten through the first week before I was so confident.  I quickly learned I m going to have to do this in stages.  There is just too much!!

I find myself being gawk-eyed everywhere I go.

Driving is a whole different ballgame.  Mom and I had to pick up my dad's car from the shop...well it s a standard.  I have JUST learned how to drive a standard in Malawi...desperate measures I know.  So...this would be my first time driving a standard on this side of the pond.  I usually do better when I am driving solo (all my friends who have had the unfortunate experience to ride with me during the early days of shifting gears would laugh to hear me say that)...so it s a good thing mom was only following me.  I didnt stall which is a huge improvement.  But...i still panic when turning b/c I m used to driving on the left side! Crazy...

So heres to becoming reacquainted to more Americanisms.