This year I admitted to myself that I am more American than English and finally after many years became an American Citizen. Why did it take me so long to stop feeling English? Perhaps it had something to do with learning to speak American English. Here are a few of my faux pas which constantly reminded me and to the horror of my two young son's,
that I needed to learn the language.

One day I asked several of my sons young friends who were visiting us to call their mother and get permission to share our Sunday Joint with us. Meaning a joint of roast beef we always ate with yorkshire puddings each Sunday.

I asked my husband's female business guest who was staying overnight if she would like my husband to "knock her up in
the morning". She had an early flight and I was merely suggesting he knock on her bedroom door to wake her. Fortunately she had a sense of humor once explained!

"Keep your pecker up" I told one of my neighbor's going through some problems. Meaning "Chin up".

I asked a neighbor student when I was doing a night class in college if he had a "rubber" meaning eraser.

I told my female friend that she was "So Homely" meaning she was a wonderful warm and friendly person.

"I hope it goes like a bomb" I said wishing someone luck. Opposite meaning
in England.

I asked my friend if she would like to stay to dinner and share our "spotted dick". This is a favorite English desert of mine made with flour, suet and raisons.

Maybe this is why it took me a little longer to fit in. Now I have learned the lingo. I love this country, and yes
on the 4th July I will put my American Flag on the front porch and show the world :
"I am proud to be an American"