Shocking things in America

* Leaving tips is not only expected but you have to leave a good one
* I didn't have to worry about my annoying American accent, or try to keep my voice low so as not to live up to the "loud, obnoxious American" stereotype
* One ring when you dial a number
* So much basketball
* Gas is sooooooo cheap
* Driving is fun
* Eating out is sooooooooo cheap
* Everything is soooooooooo cheap
* Sunshine is not a rare commodity everywhere in the world
* The enormous selection at the grocery store brought me to tears
* No talk of how fabulous the Christmas pud was or how brilliant it's going to be this year
* The obstetric care all of my friends are receiving
* Excessive non-use of large spaces, such as at Best Buy
* Birthday cake