What's a twinkie?

As Christmas quickly approaches (as does my trip home) I'm learning more and more about the differences between London and America.  My colleagues had some special requests of American goodies that I bring back:

1) Cheese whiz - I've been talking about how Americans love cheese and this is one classic kind that my british friends are absolutely disgusted by.  "How can you put cheese in a can??"  "You can, and its awesome"

2) Nyquil - Yes they have some equivalent of it here, but those who have had Nyquil said its the best thing in the world and if they lived in America they would probably be hopped up on cold medicine all the time

3) Twinkies - We are all talking about all the different american products that they don't have here and Mia goes "I have a question.  What is a twinkie?  I've seen it talked about in movies but i have no idea!" My other colleague Joy (originally canadian) and I start laughing hysterically and I said well when the world ends, anyone who is left will all meet at the twinkie factory because that's going to be the only food that survived.  I think Mia will be thoroughly disgusted when I do bring one back for her, but its an experience she must have.

There are some other things that they don't know about, that some americans don't even know about, that I enlightened them to.  Things like pork roll and the ever classic Christmas tune "Dominic the Donkey".  I sent the tube video around the office and as they all shuttered and called it the most ridiculous and annoying thing they have ever heard, I realized some things are probably best kept in New Jersey.  

I was amazed today when everyone started talking about getting a Christmas tree for our office.  I was confused and mildly offended for anyone who isn't Christian.  Finally I spoke up and said "Are we allowed to do that?  I mean, what if someone isn't Christian?".  Everyone looked at me like I just ripped baby Jesus out of the manger.  They all replied with "Who cares?" "Christmas is about gifts and family" and "'Winter Festival' is the dumbest phrase Americans have ever come up with..I mean, COME ON!"  I sat back down and realized I am definitely not in Kansas anymore.  For a city that is more culturally diverse than any I've ever experienced, people are also much less concerned with being "politically correct".  Its a little weird to me, but refreshing just the same.  

On a much lighter note, I found out today that I can certain radio stations on my computer through itunes.  Of the channels I found - 107.3!!  Anyone who has ever taken a ride in Lucky with me (my lovely protege which is now sitting on the side of route 22 waiting to be sold..any takers please let me know...she's got a lot of love still left to give!) knows that 107.3 is one of my favorite radio stations.  They really do play the best mix of the 80s, 90s and today.  I'm super pumped!  It helped me forget about the first investment that I made since I've been here.  A TV.  Not fun to put a dent in my first paycheck that we only get once a month, but definitely crucial (happy liz?) for my sanity.  I'm tired of reading every night. 

Its going to be a very cold 3 here tomorrow (whatever that means) so I guess winter is really here!  I hope that its at least snowing for you guys or definitely not raining.  See you all in a few weeks!