So over the past week or so, Craig and I have been relentless in our search to find jobs. Until that happens, we have been trying to spend as little money as possible, in order to not deplete our funds too much without gaining any money back. What does that mean? Well, it means we eat ramen noodles, lots of vegetables, and peanut butter sandwiches. It means we rent $1 DVDs from the library instead of going out for $7 pints or dinner and a movie for our nighttime entertainment. It means we actually use the home phone. It means we have been getting our exercise! We walk to the store, the library, job interviews, etc. (we even took two trips and walked with bags on our backs to our new home on "moving day"). Most of all, it means we have had plenty of time to get acquainted with all the small things that make this culture different from ours. Yes, yes, they speak the same language, drive similar vehicles, and have mobile phones, just like most Americans do. However, the slight differences are what remind you that you are in a different country. So, I'd like to highlight just a few of the everyday things that Craig and I have found to be different, but very, very cool:
Number 5: The Electric Tea Kettle
Just fill it up, plug it in, and you have boiling hot water within about 60 seconds flat. A must for all that hot tea we've been drinking. "When in Rome..."Number 4: A Fireplace (that we actually use)
Since most homes here do not have central AC or heating, and the nights can be quite cold, a usable fireplace is a must. Of course, the old house we are sharing only has one working fireplace located in the "lounge" or living room as we call it. Naturally, this is where Craig and I spent most of our time, burning log after log, and trying to warm up with all that hot tea. It's also fun to watch Craig chop firewood.Number 3: Required Recycling
That's right...it's required, at least in our neighborhood. The yellow bin is for recylables (you don't even have to sort them), the red is for "rubbish," and the green is for organics.Number 2: The NetGuard Secure Internet Banking Card
In order to access your bank account online, not only must you pass the account number and password test, but then you must take out your NetGuard card and input the correct letters for the randomly selected coordinates...just like playing Battleship. Everyone's card is different, and don't worry...this was just an example card. :) Number 1: Creamed Honey
Perfect for spreading on toast, peanut butter sandwiches, or for melting in all that hot tea. I've died and gone to sweet honey heaven.
1 comment:
Love the updates! Keep them comin!
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