No Research, Little Time, Many Musings (General)

I spent the last 10 days in Europe (London and Paris) and while it was much to short I was amazed, confused, awestruck and dumbstruck so I thought I would share some random thoughts and observations with you… History and Antiques take on a whole new meaning when you are looking at things that are over a thousand years old rather than 200 hundred years old. Seeing things that you have only read about is always a moving experience. I had forgotten the look of pain on the faces of cold weather dwellers in the winter, and the hassle of wearing overcoats, scarves and hats. Driving on the other side of the street will freak you out, and will scare you senseless every time you begin to cross the street!..and it is even painted on the street which way to look for oncoming traffic. People are more similar than they are different. Small Business owners are too! Preservatives and long shelf life have removed the great taste of food. Food really does taste better over there! Public transportation can be great! Trains, subway, taxi, and busses were on time, cheap and a great source of people watching…and within walking distance too. When did covering your mouth when you cough, and your nose when you sneeze go out of style? Public transportation requires some common courtesy and manners! Wherever you are in the world, the newspapers, TV and public eyes are on the USA. I need to get better at learning foreign languages! That includes some British accents as well. Everyone needs to get out of town, and out of the country every now and then to appreciate how blessed we are, and to view our country from a new perspective or a little different lens. It can be rewarding, heartwarming, challenging, and sometimes a little embarrassing when observed from afar.