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I love America. I usually wear an American flag on my lapel. I have been known to sing that song from Team America that goes "America, eff yeah!" pretty much every morning. I have also been known to get a lump in my throat when seeing all-things American: God, Mom, apple pie, and anybody wearing kistchy American-flag pants. To say that I think this country, its ideals and its people represent the last best hope for mankind is too put it mildly.

One of the things I love about going abroad is that you get to see American influence in action. If someone is driving a car, its because of Henry Ford. If someone is making a call, its because Alexander Graham Bell. If someone is eating a Big Mac, its because of Ray Kroc.

Woody Allen was right. Besides making one of the best movies ever (Annie Hall), he also said something like "90% of life is just showing up." I might add to that pearl of wisdom that it helps to take notes while you're there. Despite this country's overarching reach in all facets of society, we can still learn about some things that other cultures definitely do better. Japan has pretty much mastered the art of the high-tech, efficient toilet that leaves every user positively refreshed. Some countries, like the one I was recently in, program their traffic lights in such a way that reduce accidents by improving the timing and coordination of the yellow and red light patterns. Little things to be sure but they make a huge deal in day to day life.

Still its always a great feeling to land at the international airport and see Old Glory flapping in the breeze reminding you that you back home.