As would be expected, there are several differences in culture when you move from the Midwest to the west coast, then again when you cross the boarder from the US to Mexico and yet more when you go from the west coast to small town Globe, AZ and then to the San Carlos Apache Reservation.
Wednesday night, after almost three and a half months of my roommate inviting me to run (literally) to the local farmer's market to experience the hippie culture and buy fresh food, I was actually in town and had the energy to go. There were many vendors, several musicians, dogs (people love their dogs) and people everywhere. I wasn't terribly shocked by the culture as my roommate thought I might be. It was nice to buy a couple of bags of locally grown fresh oranges (which have been delicious so far). Midwest markets don't normally carry such fare.
A few observations:
Travel. U-turns are common, expected, and required. When you are used to being able to turn directly onto a street or into a parking lot and signs prohibiting U-turns have been your only exposure to such an action, you find yourself seemingly back tracking often and feeling like you missed turns. While that may also be the case, sometimes turning around at the next opportunity is how it was designed.
Language. I have heard the word "rad" used regularly (the general connotation being equivalent to a Midwest "cool" or "awesome"). I have also, during a sermon, heard a pastor use the words "dude" and "gnarly."
Food. I have been teased for purchasing canned vegetables. Although I have had no problem finding canned foods (so apparently there are still people out here that use them other than me), fresh everything seems to be the way to go. They also put avocados on everything.
Pets. Half of the stereotype is true. I have yet to see someone carrying a dog around in a purse or bag for show, but people love their dogs. From tiny 3 pounders to small horses, they have them all. There are grooming and accessory boutiques everywhere and several shopping centers allow you to bring your dog with you. Since there are no yards really big enough to have a dog and let it run around, they have designated dog parks and beaches.
People. There are people everywhere. I know I already mentioned this, but it is true enough for a second mention, and so far I have only met one person who was actually born and raised in San Diego. They are all transplants. There are so many people that the sidewalks along the beaches have hours that restrict the times you can bring your beloved dogs.
Weather. The humidity here seems to have the opposite effect as in Indiana. While still dampening, it usually brings cooler temperatures. Weird.
Wednesday night, after almost three and a half months of my roommate inviting me to run (literally) to the local farmer's market to experience the hippie culture and buy fresh food, I was actually in town and had the energy to go. There were many vendors, several musicians, dogs (people love their dogs) and people everywhere. I wasn't terribly shocked by the culture as my roommate thought I might be. It was nice to buy a couple of bags of locally grown fresh oranges (which have been delicious so far). Midwest markets don't normally carry such fare.
A few observations:
Travel. U-turns are common, expected, and required. When you are used to being able to turn directly onto a street or into a parking lot and signs prohibiting U-turns have been your only exposure to such an action, you find yourself seemingly back tracking often and feeling like you missed turns. While that may also be the case, sometimes turning around at the next opportunity is how it was designed.
Language. I have heard the word "rad" used regularly (the general connotation being equivalent to a Midwest "cool" or "awesome"). I have also, during a sermon, heard a pastor use the words "dude" and "gnarly."
Food. I have been teased for purchasing canned vegetables. Although I have had no problem finding canned foods (so apparently there are still people out here that use them other than me), fresh everything seems to be the way to go. They also put avocados on everything.
Pets. Half of the stereotype is true. I have yet to see someone carrying a dog around in a purse or bag for show, but people love their dogs. From tiny 3 pounders to small horses, they have them all. There are grooming and accessory boutiques everywhere and several shopping centers allow you to bring your dog with you. Since there are no yards really big enough to have a dog and let it run around, they have designated dog parks and beaches.
People. There are people everywhere. I know I already mentioned this, but it is true enough for a second mention, and so far I have only met one person who was actually born and raised in San Diego. They are all transplants. There are so many people that the sidewalks along the beaches have hours that restrict the times you can bring your beloved dogs.
Weather. The humidity here seems to have the opposite effect as in Indiana. While still dampening, it usually brings cooler temperatures. Weird.
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