It seems that most of my acquaintances have spent the weekend away in either Hawaii or Vegas. I have to say, this is one of the rare occasions I've "felt homesick." What I mean is, I long for the easygoing vibe of Sunday Funday (particularly during footy season). I miss spending the afternoon with mates enjoying affordable food and reasonably priced drinks. Throughout my time in San Diego, I fell into a bit of a pattern: wake up, head out surfing with Keshia, protein style double single with grilled onion, then catching up with Steff and Lauren in PB for some good times. Therefore, here's another collection of contrasts between AUS and the USA.
Sunday Funday vs. Sunday Sessions
Honestly, there's not much separating them. In America, Sunday Funday involves heading out with mates (typically for bottomless mimosas brunch, then carrying on with more antics). It usually peaks during the football season when you've got the entire day to enjoy the brilliant sport. Down under, Sunday Sessions mean relaxing at a friend's place, having some drinks, and firing up the barbie. My verdict: DRAW. You can't beat day drinking by the seaside, catching the footy, affordable tucker and drinks, and spending time with mates. Then again, there are plenty of occasions when simply kicking back at a mate's, cooking up quality food and having a drink is the perfect way to wrap up the weekend.
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| Bottomless Mimosas & Build Your Own Bloody Mary's |
Football vs. Footy
I'm nostalgic for Sundays filled with Football. I've been passionate about football and hockey since childhood. I've always maintained that football was the sport of athletes, demanding physical prowess, tactical intelligence, and sheer toughness. I craved that same style of sport, even knowing I'd be stuck checking football news or waking at 4 am Monday mornings for my NFL dose. Then I discovered the magnificent sport of Aussie football. This sport is what happens when hockey and rugby combine. And that combination produced the most thrilling, intense sport imaginable. Naturally, I'm hooked. I don't grasp all the regulations yet but that's fine. My final choice: FOOTY. Apologies, America, but with hockey being my preferred sport, it's obvious why I'm so attracted to Footy. Following this year's disappointing Superbowl, the persistent problems within the NFL, and the reality that I need to rise at 4 am to watch the Lions, I'm satisfied with just following game reports. However, I will forever support the Lions!
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| Preseason Football/Postseason Footy |
4th of July vs. Australia Day
I expected the festivities would be rather different. Yet, there are many parallels. In both AUS and the US loved ones and mates come together to honour their nation. Parallels: Red, White, and Blue; outdoor grills; lounging in the warm summer heat, and honouring one's nation. Distinctions: Green and Yellow; an intense passion for one's nation. My decision: USA! Apologies AUS, the one thing Americans surpass you in is national spirit. Yes, there are some poor Americans (just as there are poor Australians), but I'm pleased to say at least one day of the year Americans can all get a bit wild and honour the nation we inhabit with an exuberant sense of patriotism.
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| Final 4th in the US |
To Tailgate or Stay Put
Pre-game gatherings represent a marvellous tradition where fans assemble ahead of sporting contests to exchange food, beverages, and shared moments. The unwritten custom dictates that if you're sporting the same colours as your fellow enthusiasts, you're invited to participate in their celebration (and they're welcome at yours). I'd have imagined Australians would embrace pre-game festivities wholeheartedly. Due to liquor licensing restrictions and local regulations, it simply doesn't occur. I've heard from a number of Australians who reckon pre-game gatherings could prove problematic since Aussies hardly require additional encouragement to socialise with alcohol. That's a perspective I struggle to comprehend. I genuinely believe pre-game celebrations deserve recognition at every sporting venue...everywhere. My closing verdict: 'MERICA WITH THE TAILGATE.
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| Superbowl and Grand Final |
Festivities and Celebrations
I've observed that Americans tend to use any occasion as a reason to celebrate, while Aussies simply celebrate. They don't require a reason to enjoy themselves with their mates. I'm genuinely puzzled as to how Australians manage the expense of drinking. Yes, wages are higher here, but alcohol costs are extraordinary. I know several people who go out drinking every night, and I'm baffled by how their liver or bank balance tolerates it. I thought alcohol in the US was pricey. At the end of the day, if you're having a good time...who cares! Just act responsibly...PLEASE don't drink and drive! My final assessment: ?? I'm genuinely uncertain on this one. Perhaps it's my stage in life; perhaps I'm getting older, but excessive drinking simply doesn't appeal to me these days. That said, I do appreciate any chance to dress up in costume.
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| Indeed, that bloke dropped his trousers and began spitting bars. |
Firearms
Yeah... I had to include this one since I'm nostalgic about visiting the shooting range and let's be frank...that image is absolutely brilliant! My final choice: AUS takes it. I truly appreciate not having to worry about what weapons people might be carrying on the train.
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| Bang! Bang! |
See you soon...
Keep wondering!
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