The climate of most of France and Germany is actually warmer than many parts of Dumberica.

Ever hear of Siemens, Airbus, Alcatel, or Alstom? Plenty of world-class companies outside of the US.

It’s funny, that even with their individual cars, American kids are less independent than European kids. It’s quite normal for kids in Europe to travel with friends at age 15 or 16 (and walk to school at age 8 without parents). The thought of kids here doing that would give most helicopter parents a coronary.

Personally, I’m not a go-getter. I’m a seeker of comfort and security. My interest in rental property only extends to wanting a steady income without working under the FUCKING MISERABLE hours and vaca time that most Americans have to deal with. (Which would likely have me in jail for doing serious mayhem to my boss one morning. I don’t take authority well.)