Things are different

Not bad, but different.

I've been mulling over these differences, and thought I'd put together a funny little list of things... well of things I never thought I'd have to think of, or actually physically consider appreciating.

1. Clean underwear

Now don't let your imagination go too far, I haven't gone commando.  However, I once had to buy underwear because I didn't have any more clean ones or access to a washing machine.  Lemme tell ya having a pile of clean underwear in my closet never felt so good. And on the note of washing clothes....

2. Water heaters

Get this.. some/most of the washing machines here heat the water themselves.  I didn't even know that was possible, but if you don't have a water heater your washing machine has to heat the water up... and it takes nearly 3 hours just to do ONE LOAD of laundry.  Not cool man.

3. Dollar cokes

Surely you can imagine fast food chains are different in Europe, that's a given.  But possibly the biggest let down of the Amsterdam McDonalds is the Coke.  Coke just has that signature super carbonated perfect combination of sweet and sharp taste, and here in the Netherlands they just don't got it.  They also don't have size large, and NOTHING is a dollar.  Nothing.

4. My blow dryer

Haven't blow dried my hair in over 2 months.  Enough said.

5. GPS

I didn't fully understand the lack of cell phone usage I would have over here.  Honestly it's nice not being able to text, I feel like I can absorb much more of my surroundings when I'm out and about.  However, I can't tell you how many times I would have given my right hand for some 3G service up in here.  Sometimes a map just doesn't cut it in these 21st Century times.

6. My printer

Paying five cents a sheet is just a rip off.  Not to mention the steps I have to go through to even access a printer.  Geez louise, Imma be hugging that thing as soon as I get home.

7. My Temperpedic pillow

We were issued pillows by the housing service here when we arrived.. however I think they might have run out when they got to my apartment and resorted to saltine crackers.

8. Ovens

While we do have stove tops, which allow us to do plenty of cooking, I would sell my bike (a hefty price) for some chocolate chip cookies, cinnamon rolls, or just some Pillsbury biscuits.. mmmmmmhmm which brings me to

9. Sweet things

I'm the kind of person who has to have something sweet after every meal.. sometimes even breakfast.  Now, don't get me wrong, the treats I've gotten from home are splendid, but sometimes you're just craving brownies, ice cream, or some fancy made up Pinterest treat.  Dude, I paid SEVEN euros for a pint of Ben & Jerry's the other day.  I'm desperate!

Last but certainly not least...

10. Midol

Sorry, reader discretion advised.. guess I should have mentioned that. Woopsie Daisy.  Dude, okay idk if these Dutch women are trying to be tough or if they just don't know help is out there, but dang.  All they even have here that I can identify are.. cardboard tampons ..it's a wild world here in Amsterdam.  If you ever go to Europe, don't forget those happy little pills.  Better yet, bring extra for me.

So, this post is meant to be funny and witty, not to be taken as complaining or whining or whatever.  Because in all reality I am going to appreciate the little baby American ants when I return to the Promised Land.  56 Days y'all.  Time sure flies when you're having fun.