Monday, February 23, 2009

Reverse Culture Shock

We have now been back in our country for about 2 months. Things are certainly looking up, but just when you think you have completed the hurdle something comes along to remind you that this was not the case.

McDonald’s is one of those American staples that whether you like it or not, it is a source of comfort just knowing that one is around. In Warsaw, the Wilanow McDonald’s was that anchor, centrally located in the expat community. I am not a big fan of McDonalds, but every once in a while I would allow the kids to have some Kurczak McNuggets in an effort to provide a little bit of America to them. My kids loved going there, not necessarily for the meal, but for the toy. In European McDonalds’, children are given a choice of toys. You can get the same toy over and over or you can add a bit of variety.

Flash forward to our most recent visit to the golden arches where my son is shocked to find that he has no choice. It is one toy for one and all. If you ask me, that’s a bit socialist, don’t you think?