Things to think through on Friday afternoon

A few little things about life here, that you probably take for granted in Birmingham daily life... that you might smile about.


1) dishwashing machines -a rare thing here, and we have the dishpan hands to prove it.


2) Natural gas line direct to your house - we have 4 separate propane tanks... one tank for the stove, one for the dryer, and two for the beloved calephones (water heaters)...these tanks are about twice as large & heavy as a US propane tank, and yes they do run out at 5:30 AM- I have experienced it.


3) Starting a car and driving wherever you want. - You think the DMV is trouble there? Ha! Step one toward even getting a license here (legally) is a blood test, yes a blood test.


4) Lanes, driving in lanes... no such thing.


5) Seasoning packets for tacos, chili, etc., virtually non-existent.


6) You cannot bring your grocery basket through the cashier line, so you leave it and unload onto the conveyor belt, thereby leaving a mass of baskets in the way. I mean hundreds of them.


7) No dropping your bills in the mail for phone, electricity, etc. You go stand in line and pay a service company to pay your bill for you. You pray they don't ask you complicated questions while you are in line.


8) Everywhere has an armed guard. Everywhere. Get used to it. 


9) Flat sidewalks without tripping hazards. Really?


10) Car alarms are like my night time lullaby and my alarm clock now. They put me to sleep. They wake me up. 


Thankful for all of you-
Blessings!
Chris and Vickie