Re: Okay...Reality check time...
 

Philistine .... In many areas I am known at Saint Ray ....

Re: Okay...Reality check time...
 

Places like Miami Beach? :p :lol:

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Really? For you, maybe. But respectfully, I think there a few million who might disagree. The clue is in realizing that that phrase probably wasn't coined by ex-pats coming over for a few years with a relo package and a waiting job, but by those who carried nothing but a suitcase and a desire for a better life. It's not all just a chapter in the history books either, talk to the Vietnamese restaurant owner, the Indian grocer, even the Korean lady that does nails or the Mexican cleaning lady and it's possible you'll get a different perspective.

For those coming from the UK or other some other western European countries, the "American Dream" probably doesn't exist in the way the phrase was intended. For you, emigrating might be an adventure, a change of pace, a chance to experience a different culture and better weather (the latter depends on location, of course!). For many coming from less fortunate backgrounds the "American Dream" is having the opportunity to take control of their lives and destiny to better their situation. Something they didn't have in the "old country".

Enough with the flag waving, any more and I'd have to start singing "God Bless America" and nobody wants that!

To the OP, FWIW, I think you made the right descision. You're coming here with a lot of things that will prove to be in your favor. Plenty of money, a visa that will ultimately allow you to work, many options on where to live, your destination is one of the greatest Cities in the country and you have the means to return home to the life you left if it doesn't work out for you. As others have said (and better than I), don't expect the U.K., keep an open mind and don't burn the bridge back home!

Good luck!

Re: Okay...Reality check time...
 

Whoa, that's spooky! Have you ever been to Wellingborough before? It's not exactly the centre of the universe is it? Cheap to live though. When are you moving back?

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???? Don't think i quite understand that expression? And..umm.. not sure I want to either!!! ;)

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Yes many time's :) it's a place to start thats all. End of September.

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You would think i should know what she did wouldn't you? She actually only went for a year or so... and I think it would have been about 89/90 ish. She was a spooky looking gothic type... or maybe that was durinng her punk phase? Blue mohican possibly!! I'm sure you'd remember her if you'd seen her!

Re: Okay...Reality check time...
 

You're right about not singing God Bless America, that would be nasty! (Or are you actually American - if so, I apologise.)

I am definitely going to go into this with a positive attitude, and take everything as it comes. (Which is easy to say but I am a natural-born-worrier so it will take some doing!!) Thankyou for your help. :thumbsup:

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Mmmm looks like I'll be leaving just as you are arriving. What are the chances of that? We'll have to keep in touch via BE so you can keep me posted on daily Wellingborough happenings!! (Like there are likely to be so many!) :thumbsup:

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I have family & friends scattered all over the South, do you really think I'll be doing all my socializing in Wellingborough alone. Once back home I doubt very much if I'll post more than a six month update on BE :)

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We are British through and through but we still sing it when the need arises. We join in with the National anthem at football games and graduation ceremonies etc.

I went on a 3 day geography trip with the middle school and we sang all the patriotic songs before dinner each night.
And my youngest daughter says the Pledge every day. She doesn't have to but we have told all our children they must stand for the Pledge.
The youngest felt left out by not saying it and so she does, she has even been the one to read it over the school tannoy system.

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what's the pledge ....and what does standing for the pledge entail?

so many new religions these days, it's hard to keep up ;)

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Pledge in front of the Flag and stand with your hand on your heart, yes even Pierce had to learn it at such a young age. LOL I know your teasing "wink wink".

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I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

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Dont remind me, night after night we practiced it.