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Since the US is one of the leading countries in the world, people often feel free to voice their opinions about what they like but mostly dislike about it. Costly healthcare, inflation, conservative values, and dysfunctional politics are just a few things that stop foreigners from believing in the American dream. 

However, today’s collection of X posts is all about the things people actually like about the land of the free and are even a bit envious of. From coupons to a deeply rooted cheerleading culture, scroll down to find aspects of American culture others would want to have in their country.

We also reached out to the digital creator and Indian expat living in the US, Priya, from “It's Ok Yaar,” a content platform she created together with her partner, Darshan, to help other South Asian immigrants. She kindly agreed to share the things she likes about the USA, too.

#1

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

twtselma Report

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Lauren Caswell
Community Member
3 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Oh, I want to see a real one! Does the novelty wear off? We have lots of hedgehogs here and yeah they can be noisy but always cute ^-^ (Edit: and dirty, no touchy. Like raccoons, I assume)

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#2

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

SoVeryBritish Report

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Tobias Reaper
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

we dont have air con because it doesnt get hot enough that often to justify such an expense

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Priya’s and Dashan’s creation, “It's OK Yaar,” is a philosophy that most South Asians live by. It’s their way of saying, “Don’t worry, everything will be fine.” Their joint project is a nod to their community’s perseverance, which pushes them take a leap, leave their homes, and move to a foreign country. 

The couple lives in New York, where they foster their content platform and aim to educate, entertain, and empower South Asian immigrants. On their YouTube channel, they post various videos helping people navigate visas, housing, insurance, and everything in between.

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First, we wanted to find out what prompted Priya to move to America. “I had the opportunity to transfer to Google’s Chicago office, but initially turned it down as I didn’t know anyone there. When the offer resurfaced a few months later, I decided to take a chance and give it six months,” she told Bored Panda

“Worst-case scenario, I’d dislike it and return. Darshan and I started dating around this time. After a year of settling in and advancing my career, we got married and he moved to Chicago to be with me, ensuring I could maintain my professional momentum."

#7

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

benerationx Report

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Lauren Caswell
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

100% My sisters flatmate was feeling homesick, back in our Uni days, and it was Thanksgiving coming up. We researched, went all over town to get out of season ingredients etc. Learned to make pumpkin pie, and made a cornucopia. It was a wonderful experience in itself, sweetened by knowing it would help cheer him up

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#8

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iveuteen Report

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Ace
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don;t they exist elsewhere? Certainly in the UK there are public lending libraries in every town, even mobile ones (i.e.a van) in more remote areas.

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#9

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abbpreston Report

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Mary Kelly
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

we have the same regional differences...but, a lot of different geography...then again, you have red squirrels, hedgehogs, and castles...so, you're in pretty good shape

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She admits that moving to the US wasn’t an easy step to take. “While I consider myself adventurous, moving to America was unexpected. With no friends or family here, the unknown loomed large. Growing up in the college town of Durgapur, West Bengal, I always dreamed big and refused to let limitations hold me back.”

#12

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

JohnTheFrogRe Report

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JoNo
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

But they are still in America. Europeans can drive the equivalent distance and be in a different country, having passed through several on the way.

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However, despite the fears of not fitting in and failing, she pushed forward. “As a petite 5-foot woman, I worried about not being taken seriously or underestimated, but I was confident once I started speaking that it would change perceptions. Ultimately, this journey required immense self-belief."

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#14

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

VitaNihilEst , aalexandriabish Report

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Boo
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The first year after I emigrated to the UK, I decorated the house 2 weeks before.....hubby was not happy! Was glad I had my decs shipped from my dad's to here. Just wish I could have shipped the life size coffin, built and decorated it myself. But hubs would have had a stroke (at that time, Halloween wasn't really a done thing over here) but the neighbourhoods kids enjoyed it.

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We were also curious to know if she had any opinions about America before living there that were proven wrong during her residency. She told us, "Coming from India's community-oriented culture, I was concerned about the potential isolation of American life. However, I couldn't have been more wrong. Chicago welcomed me with open arms. I've been incredibly fortunate to meet amazing people who invited me into their homes for holidays like Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July. They were genuinely curious about Indian culture, making me feel truly included."

#16

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

MohToTheEl Report

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maka paka
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

????? didn't realise Park life, Glastonbury and Reading were in the US

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#17

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

_MellyM_ Report

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Lauren Caswell
Community Member
3 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yes! My mind boggles at this! I would for sure use a bucket load of coupons to get those kind of discounts! We used to have coupons in the 90s, but nothing like the American ones I've seen (I must note, I've seen on the TV. Not heard from any actual Americans about it)

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What she likes the most about America is its liveliness and multitude of cultures. "New York City felt like a natural fit—the constant energy is addictive. With its massive expat community, I've been exposed to countless cultures and perspectives. I'm incredibly grateful for this experience. The freedom to manage my own time has been liberating. Moving to a new country was undoubtedly an adventure that unveiled a stronger, more confident version of myself."

#21

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

chambiesfeels Report

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Huddo's sister
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Yeah, my school had both a wellbeing coordinator (who I loved) and a psychologist.

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Mary Kelly
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

they don't really do anything and are nothing like in the movies...not in public schools

MotherofGuineaPigs
Community Member
3 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Which kind of councilors, the ones for therapy or the twits that think they can plan out the rest of your higher education based on your grades? The only thing that matters to get into college are your SAT/ACT scores.

Orogogus
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Eh... I grew up in an Asian household, where getting into a good college was a big deal and the expected thing, and at least 30 years ago there was definitely more to it than just your SAT/ACT scores. Many colleges had tables showing the weighting of successful applicants with given GPAs vs SAT/ACT scores --- a high GPA could make up for a low SAT/ACT. You needed extracurriculars to look well-rounded for the more competitive schools. Race mattered, not in a good way for Asians. I don't remember the guidance counselor doing much. She did give a talk encouraging students to do the 2 years community college -> transfer to university pathway, but that was kind of frowned upon among the Asian parents. And they were helpful for organizing teacher recommendation letters.

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Janae Dawson
Community Member
2 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The counselors at school (at least where I am, Midwest) aren't used for mental health, they're seriously just for helping you apply to college and occasionally they know of scholarships you can apply for.

All's Gravy
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Many UK secondary schools have a trained ed psych on site, but if not they will have one on referral. The new government have pledged a designated mental health specialist in every school.

Deb Dedon
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Having a 'counsellor' at school doesn't mean they're good 'counsellors'.

Jeremy Bolanos
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ideally, they were meant to help the top whatever% of kids figure out where/how they were going to college. Now they just hand out pamplets and play solitaire on their school computer.

Meagan Glaser
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Dude, they're called counsellors/advisors because they are supposed to help guide your education (i.e. bully you about college and suggest what classes you take) Our country doesn't believe in mental health or any other health care as a public service. And our schools will gladly deny children food if they can't pay. Y'all think they're paying for therapy?

ADJ
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have them in Poland too, and I was under impression they are ubiquitous.

Agamemnon O'Neill
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They are overworked, not therapists, (just guidance counsellors), you can never see one, and they are 100% the biggest f-up on staff.

Mc Hobbit
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You know why they do though? Because of America's for profit healthcare. Unlike Europeans/Australians/Brits, Americans can't just take their kids to an independent counselor because it costs a fortune.

KatSaidWhat
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had a counsellor and that was back in Saffa. TBF< not sure how qualified as she taught something else as well.

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She emphasized that moving to a new country, especially the US, is challenging and might not be for everyone. “The first year often brings comparisons to your home life, which is natural. Your life stage, priorities, and personality will influence your experience. While resilience and hard work are essential, it's crucial to recognize if you thrive on stepping outside your comfort zone.

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#22

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

lloftvlly Report

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Papa
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Are you sure people don't get judged for shopping in their pajamas?

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Priya signed off by saying, “Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing where to live. Our platform, “ItsOkayAar” (meaning ItsOkayFriend), is dedicated to sharing diverse experiences to help you find your perfect home away from home."

#25

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

soobsprdx Report

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Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You can be jealous until you realize that most 16yo kids are nowhere prepared to drive in traffic.

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#26

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

peachyfvckup Report

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DE Ray
Community Member
3 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Corn dogs are so easy. Just mix cornmeal and water (beat in an egg if you want), skewer a sausage on a stick, dip it in the batter you made (a tumbler or other tall glass is a good vessel for dipping a sausage in batter), and fry it! You can vary the recipe: The sausage you use doesn't have to be a hot dog - try a kielbasa or bratwurst. If you don't have cornmeal you can make other types of batter - like what you would use for fish and chips or schnitzel. If you aren't comfortable deep frying, you can pan fry if there's a lot of oil in the pan and it's very hot.

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#27

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

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Mia Black
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This one I feel. I think the variety of food from different heritages is so cool. In Germany it's a little like "only one food trend at a time"... As if we can't handle new food/taste. Like, till the maybe 2010s there where mostly Chinese restaurants beside greek and pizzerias. Then came sushi. Like two years ago Indian. In-between where Mongolian and wine others but they disappeared after the new trend wave in my observation. It's hard to find Mexican, African, Persian, Carribbean... But slowly it's becoming better. I enjoy discovering new tastes

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#28

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Shellbunny_ Report

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Robert T
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I literally have a can of pain au chocolat dough in my fridge right now.

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#29

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

balmainbratzzz Report

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Me
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If you're ever in Escondido, CA, I highly recommend Peterson's donuts. Best I've ever had and I looooove donuts.

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#30

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

yertayo Report

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Owen
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I can sometimes get next day shipping on Amazon, and I'm in the UK.

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#31

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

elisaespositos Report

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Wang Zhuang
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

True, I never wore a school uniform in the US, but the downside is that kids get bullied and judged for wearing unfashionable clothes.

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#32

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

MwizaSophy Report

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BoredPossum
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Speaking up and being socially bold is great if used correctly. But it's not limited to America.

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#34

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

ruhrohren Report

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Cathy
Community Member
3 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have bali around the corner! You are not allowed to complain! *edit: and all the additions below 😊

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#37

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

keetsstweets Report

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Binny Tutera
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The eclipse happens everywhere, just different dates, so I'm not sure why the envy.

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#39

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

flwrmrk Report

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Pittsburgh rare
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I used to buy a lot of the big cans in Mexico. Here you can barely find the basic flavour and it's tiny 😢

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#42

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

RevisedDan Report

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Geoffrey Scott
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Would not wish to cause the downfall of your society, nor the resultant dental bills.

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#43

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

x.com Report

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Geoffrey Scott
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

FYI..we do NOT get several weeks off throughout the school year. Couple weeks for xmas, one in the spring. Our year is based on the farmers needs, back in the day. That hay ain't gonna put itself up in the barn. Some schools in the south have several weeks throughout the year, but THEY have aircon.

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#47

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

narrysnigg Report

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James016
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ha ha yes. We went to Olive Garden a couple of night ago. We shared 2 dishes between the 4 of us because the portions are huge. They also gave us 7 garlic baguettes to take away with us. They didn’t charge for those. FYI I am currently on holiday in Florida.

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#48

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

thoughtsofjoyce Report

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Mary Kelly
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

owned by aldi's but not ruined by aldi's...wish i could say that amazon did not ruin whole foods...

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#49

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

gibsielynch Report

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WorkAholic1
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Barnes & Noble is nice, but Borders was awesome. Borders was like an old friend - comfortable to be around. It was like you could walk in and take off your shoes and settle in for a good read. Barnes & Noble is more like that uppity aunt and uncle you have. Nice stuff, don't touch, very rigid and proper. I blame that image on their imposing stand-alone buildings.

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#51

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

lucyakehurst1 Report

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Ace
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They used to be available in the 1970s but were banned in most of Europe for environmental reasons pumping lots of stuff into the water system that could really screw up the food chain.

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#52

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

trsgatitos Report

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James016
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Not sure where but in the nearby Publix, the sliced bread is actually smaller than the sliced bread in the uk.

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#54

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

RealNovah Report

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Mia Black
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't understand this one because of European there are so many other cultures around one country and relatively easy to reach. In my opinion it's more interesting than only visiting another part of the own country with just slightly different culture. (Although I do this, because it's also interesting, just not that much as a completely different country)

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#55

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

anon_opin Report

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Ray Ceeya (RayCeeYa)
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

OP has no idea what poor in the USA means. Poor here is NO HOUSING. Poor is living on the street.

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#56

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

hauteblood Report

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Robert T
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I'm not. They are massively commercialised operations that actually raise very little for charity. The UK has far better charity shops where the money does go to a good cause and the prices of the items are much more reasonable.

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#57

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

Eternal_Chasm Report

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der sebbl
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lower calories often come with the downside of other unhealthy sweeteners

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#59

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

SaoirseBall Report

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René Sauer
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

at my regular chinese place in Germany it seems like they just throw a handful into the bag when somebody orders from them. I usually get between 3 to 5 each order. and then you can also order a dozen extra as dessert.

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#60

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

SherlocksBored Report

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Austin Sauce
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Coachella hasn’t been good or interesting in probably 5-10 years. It’s just a playground for the rich and famous now.

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#62

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

urmyreligi0n Report

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Wang Zhuang
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You can bump into celebrities in various big cities in the US, not only in California

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#63

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

jayneiskool Report

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Mary Kelly
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

that's the target store house brand...there are better valentine's day chocolates...but, for my money, the reese's heart, easter eggs, halloween pumpkins and christmas trees are the best holiday candy there is!

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#69

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ladyofsrrows Report

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Aerial (Any pronouns/Canadian/Jewish)
Community Member
3 months ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We just got a Hot Topic in my city, and yeah, it's pretty cool! My dad and my brother both immediately found shirts they liked, but sadly, as the person with the lesser-known hyperfixations, have no series merch available to me. (But at least WoF HAS merch now!! But only if you live in the US.)

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#74

USA-Things-People-Jealous-Of

bleedingmedryy Report

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EP
Community Member
3 months ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Those are local to an area of the country. I have never seen a crumbl or a canes. I, too, would like to see one of each. This reminds me of In N Out burger…. which, also, can’t be found anywhere on this side of the continent. I have had In N Out Burger when out in CA on vacation though and it was fantastic. Of course that was a 6 hour plane ride away lol.

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