A slice of Americana

Yesterday was the County Council installation ceremony for Howard County, which is more jazzy and funky than it sounds, because this is American politics, innit. The UK equivalent might be held in an Abbey or a Council building, but this was in a high school (love going into high schools – it’s a slice of American life that I don’t get to see much of). It was a great honour to be invited to attend. 🙂

There was a funky jazz band and wotnot, which was super cool. But when it comes to everyone standing and doing the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem, what’s this Brit gal to do?

This is what I do when everyone is standing reciting the Pledge of Allegiance with their right hands over their hearts. I stand with my right hand across my stomach, holding on to my left arm/elbow. This way it kind of looks like I’m joining in 😉 . I also don’t even attempt to mouth the words, because it’s not my allegiance to pledge. I love America, but I’m not an American citizen so it feels wrong to even mumble it.

This.

The National Anthem is always stirring and I love hearing it sung, but again, not mine to sing along to.

Another day in the USA

This happens a lot….

What’s your name?
Claire.
Carla?
Claire.
Clara! Lovely. Are you Australian?

Sigh.

🙂