livingtheamericandreamineurope

Groundhog Day

I know I am publishing this well past February 2nd, but still think it is culturally relevant, especially in 2022… During the pandemic, at least in the English-speaking western world “Groundhog Day” the popular 1993 film became a shorthand joke for how we’re all supposed to get out of this Corona wave loop. Do youContinue reading “Groundhog Day”

Gaudi or Gaudy

What is the difference between Gaudi (the man) and Gaudy (the term)? Is the latter the origin of the former and, what does this have to do with culture?

High Culture versus Low Culture

Both terms ‘high’ and ‘low’ culture are seen as derogatory, or disrespectful toward the other. Popular culture, which changes more rapidly and, within this context is seen as a ‘lesser’ aspect of culture as it relates to socioeconomic status.

One person’s high culture is another’s low culture and vice versa. This is especially true as many aspects of modern popular culture have become ‘canon’ as it were – having great value, importance, or significance since they were first produced.

What is Culture? (part I)

Just how complex is culture compared to what we usually think it is.

That is, what we can see, hear, taste, and smell versus that which flows under the surface, but is really the engine driving each and every one of our interactions.

You never know what pressures are affecting a person’s day; in addition to external factors, there could be internal cultural factors at play.

So, be kind to those you encounter.

Word of the year?

Have you chosen a ‘word of the year’ to help guide your year before?

What do you think of it?

Do you find it helpful? Why or why not?

Read on to see why I chose one this year.

Happy Holidays from Germany

Let’s talk about worn out computers, video editing, and comparing the UK & USA holiday culture and traditions to those in Germany…

A love of simple things

Did you know I have an instagram page? I do. It’s @amidreameu. I had created USdreamEU but then I lost access to the account. I don’t remember why. At any rate, I post about all things related to coffee and culture. Did you know that just about everything can relate to those two things, especiallyContinue reading “A love of simple things”

A six word story about ME

[°This is prompt 6 in the #virtualcampfire2021 November writing series hosted by @chameleon_coaching & @southboundstories. “I’m a verbose, life-improvement in process.” Me If you have seen my other posts you know by now that I have a lot to say. We all know that it is your choice to read any or all of itContinue reading “A six word story about ME”

Lessons learned living outside my home country

What are some of the lessons I have learned living abroad? Read on to find out.

An attempted rounded view of American Thanksgiving

American Thanksgiving has a rich, but controversial history. It is a Day of Mourning for Native Americans. Read on to learn more about this ‘classic’ colonial American Holiday.