A sister missionary asked if we've experienced culture shock yet yesterday. Before I could open my mouth David replied, "Nie, not at all." True, we look similar as we are Caucasian, and with our friendly "Dzien dobry" greeting who would know that we're completely clueless as to what people are talking about! (well actually everybody who continues the conversation:) Just in case you're wondering, there are a few things I've found to be different; some for the better, some well...you decide.
The two shopping malls we've been to have grocery stores on the bottom floor. This explains why at the Arkadia mall they have slanted ramps near Carrefour, a Fred Meyer style multi-purpose grocery store. We bag the groceries using bags we buy or bring. The second shopping trip I pulled a few out of my purse without the cashier noticing. When she tried to swipe them, I said "mine, mine," sounding like a toddler pointing to my purse. Hey, they're one zeloty a piece--I think I'll learn to recycle! Note to self: look up Polish word for mine.
Traffic lights go from red to yellow to green. This is helpful, especially if you're somewhat new to using a clutch--helpful to have that second and a half to get ready to go! Plus why have that nonessential yellow light? In Charlotte it means speed up if you're close enough--within a block--before the light turns red.
In the furnished apartments we looked at, as well as the temporary short-stay one we're in now, they typically have just a washer in either the bathroom, kitchen or a small separate closet. One apartment had a washer and a dryer. Guess which one we're renting! In our temporary flat we wish we could read the Italian instructions as one load washed for about 90 minutes.
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