As I have been here in Wales much longer now, very little surprises me anymore. I know the slang for Wales as well as or better than I do Canada. I am starting to have to think about the correct Canadian terminology when speaking to friends back home. I still have yet to pick up any aspect of the accent though. It has been hard to think up new topics to write in these blogs because the novelty has worn off but lucky for me my partner has just moved over here and has started reminding me of the Quirks or Wales all over again.
Though my American family still have Thanksgiving, around here Christmas comes the week of Halloween. I love Halloween and dressing up is my favourite thing to do but I am also a last minute shopper, usually making my costume day of. This gets complicated in the UK because Halloween isn't so big here and usually the day by October 30th, store have taken Halloween decorations and supplies out and put Christmas decorations and supplies in. Being from North America I find this WAY TOO EARLY as there are still 2 months to go!
I have a theory as to why this might be though. I think in Canada around this time we are just getting snow and at least as children we are excited about the endless possibilities this brings! There are so many activities that you can go in the snow to stay occupied. In Wales, there is rain. not snow. Rain brings less fun activities (though I am not arguing that rain isn't fun some of the time). Getting excited about Christmas and having Christmas markets and Winter Festivals with rides and games and Mulled wine, make up for the lack of snow, and the sooner the better!
If it lifts those November blues then I say why not! Embrace the  excitement that the Winter Holidays bring! Happy Holidays!