Kakki wrote:
>
>
>
> <<It's true and I've always wondered if there is some inate allegiance to the
> "old country" (whatever that particular country may be) that makes Americans
> tend to defer to Europe on some levels. >>
So true Kakki. I have heard this sentiment before from family and friends whose
hearts remain 'back home'.
> <<Of course, the culture is so much
> older, many of the cities are far more beautiful, they do as a whole seem
> more civilized than the typical brash American character, and I do envy them
> all getting almost two months holiday each year (last I heard only the
> Japanese rival us in our workaholism). I've never been to Europe>>
I've never been to Europe and yet I am drawn to it like some kind of magical
magnetic force. Been there in another life perhaps. For me, it is the 'idea' of
Europe....something so much more exotic than where I live. And then there are
the Wallistahs of the world who find Canada and Canadians exotic....so there you
go. It is all a matter of perspective.
> As far as the best breakfasts are concerned, I just became co-owner of a
> Belgian waffle iron and am about to embark on an adventure I have long awaited
> for. Looking forward to that Tofu topping ;-) mmmmmm!
>
> <<As far as socialized health care, my personal experiences the past three
> years in an HMO here (the precusor cousin to nationalized health care) has
> been a complete nightmare and two people I worked with have died needlessly
> as a direct result of the incompetency of that system. I now pay extra
> gladly to have my own choice of doctors and treatment. Not trying to start
> up a fight about it, but it's a particularly sore subject with me these
> days. (And no, we don't throw people out on the street in the U.S. who need
> treatment - any hospital who receives government funds (most of them) is
> obligated to treat anyone who walks in the door regardless of financial
> ability to pay and there is always state and federal medicare/medicaid).>>
a real can of worms for me especially in light of my own experiences with family
members and myself of late with the Canadian healthcare system. All I can say is
thanks a hell of a lot Mike. (Harris). Right Catherine??? I dont want to blow
the stellar mood Im in so I wont even go into my most recent trials .. trust me
, there is a lot of truth in the rumours the media spreads about the collapse of
that faerie tale.
>
> <<And it is absolutely true that the mood and feeling changes the moment you
> cross over the border into Canada. I've been back and forth since I was
> very young and have always felt the calm and comfort immediately. It is a
> wonderful country with gorgeous cities and people. >>
As a Canadian, I feel the difference when visiting the US. It is just different.
Different culture, different experiences. I feel fortunate to say that for the
most part, my experiences there have been wonderful. What I really get a kick
out of is when people refer to themselves for example from the Philadelphia area
and then refer to me as being from Canada. I find that so endearing! ;-)
>
>
> <<I'm glad there is still much diversity in the U.S.>>
Again, I agree... and as un l'etranger in that strange wild and wonderful US of
A... there are lots of positive things about being there. Tonnes in fact.
Mags
np: the hissing of my waffle iron :))))))
>
--
And this loving is a drawing close,
a tuning in, an opening.
Until one perfect moment;
but how can it be expressed?
A receiving, an enfolding
as I cradle you in my arms.
Within my heart, within my soul,
You are my true love.
--Lui Collins
---
_~O
/ /\_,
___/\
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