Adjusting to another developed country is much more difficult than it seems.  Rather than embracing the similarities to my home country in my new environment, my arrival has only made me aware of the many differences between the two countries including: a washing/drying combination unit that doesn't really dry your clothes, smaller appliances, differences in online infrastructure and internet laws, and duvet blankets that I am unable to wrap myself in.  (Oh, how I miss being tangled up in my queen-sized comforter in the morning.)  Here are some other differences I'm having to get used to - and quickly.

A switch for everything! There is a switch for every electrical function you can think of.  Want to use an electrical outlet?  There's a switch for that (And for EVERY outlet, not just the one you want to connect your lamp to for ease of accessibility).  Want to use the stove?  There's a switch for that (and I mean separate from the switch on the stove.)  Want to take a hot shower?  There's a switch for that, too (and this switch is in the kitchen - which I still don't understand).

Laws to offset your lack of common sense. In the United States our society is based on the assumption that the majority of people will exercise common sense in a decision to commit any action.  The idea is that if you make the wrong decision, you have willingly chosen to accept the consequences resulting from that decision.  In the United Kingdom, laws exist on the assumption that most people will not exercise common sense in their decisions.  They may actually be on to something.  Anyhow, this illustration is definitely comical but is a very true statement.  I am still struggling with the restrictions regarding how wide I am legally allowed to open my window - for fear that I may do something incredibly intelligent, such as jumping out of it.

The Cost of Living. It has been extremely difficult to adjust to the exchange rate and taxes associated with each purchase.  Even though we do have taxes, in some of the most expensive cities it is typically capped at around 10%.  However the VAT (value added tax) in the U.K. is approximately 20%.  In the U.S., my purchase mentality usually follows this sequence:

1. Is this an average price for this item and what makes this a better bargain?

2. Add approximately 6% in sales tax (which is the current local tax in my hometown.)

3. I don't need this, but I'll live on the edge today.

In London, I find that my thought sequence for purchasing items is something like:

1. This item is £10, but the approximate value in USD is $16.00.

2. Would I pay $16.00 for this item if I were at home right now?

3. Well, the VAT is already included, so that 20% just threw out any idea of reasonable price comparisons.

4. Wait, have I eaten today or is there enough on my Oyster card to get back and forth to work this week?

5. Nevermind, this process is too complicated.  *Puts item back on shelf*

The cost of living in London is already extremely high (in either currency) and that would be before the inclusion of the VAT in each purchase.  I can only imagine most of your thoughts of me when I get back home when I am saying, "Gas is only $4.00, THAT'S A DEAL!"

There is a certain comedy about realizing just how much we take for granted in American culture.  The idea of smaller portions, smaller appliances, and less floor space are beginning to teach me just how much I don't need.  For instance, I really don't need that super-sized meal at McDonald's, now do I?  However, I'm not sure I will get over my feet becoming exposed to the cold air at some point throughout the night because the blankets are not designed for an American's sleeping habits.  Please do not take my statements as complaints because I am really starting to gain a certain element of appreciation for living in a culturally different environment.  I just couldn't help but make light of my first couple of weeks in London.