I Blame Televison

Here are some additional comments/questions I've received about the US. Keep in mind that most of them are: a) said in a joking manner; or b) came from a particular co-worker who is not the sharpest crayon in the box. She constantly touched me and called me sweetie. I hated it.

Regardless of their origins, the questions provide some insight into Kiwi perceptions of the US.

• Did I throw my cap in the air at graduation?
• Does everyone in America get boob jobs? (One look at me answers this question.)
• Did I live in the dorms at University? Do I wish I could go back? (It's a rite of passage, but not one I'm eager to repeat.)
• Did I have a Sweet 16 party? (I would like to hunt down and choke the person responsible for MTV's My Super Sweet 16. What a tragedy.)
• Did I live through a hurricane?
• You're quiet for an American.
• It must be cool to get Chinese take-away in the cardboard containers with the metal handles. (Apparently, NZ packages all leftover Chinese food in styrofoam.)
• All 20-something Americans live in loft apartments.
• All Americans shop at the Gap.
• Does George Bush move out of the White House tomorrow? (asked on election day)
• Will Barack Obama's face be put on money?
• Do you like Paris Hilton? Do you like Keanu Reeves? (Insert your own joke about combined IQ score.)
• You guys have heaps of cool things in America!
• Is New York City safe?
• Did you grow up in a place like Laguna Beach or the Hills? (Oh sweetie, if you only knew...)