Spoiled!

The more I travel, the more I get to confirm how spoiled we are living in the US. Even in places like Denmark, where there are so many social programs that everybody's basic needs are covered, they still have to deal with things that we normally take for granted. For instance, in most of the US you drive yourself everywhere. So even if it is raining or snowing, you are only exposed to it while you make it to your car. In Denmark, on the other hand, rain or shine, people still have to drive their bikes. Also, although it is true that weather in the US can get quite nasty during the winter, you at least have the consolation of some really warm months when you can really enjoy the sunshine, and everything that comes with it: The pool, outdoor sports, barbeques with friends. And there's also a lot to be said for all the open space: From the free public parks, to the size of the homes, to the elbow room at the restaurants.

I am truly enjoying our vacation, except for those moments when the girls drive us crazy, and I will be sad when it is time to go back to reality. But it is also good to remember that we are pretty darn lucky to go back to what I consider a pretty privileged life. We work our butts off for it, but we are still a pretty lucky bunch.