I recently moved from Italy to Colorado, and the culture shock has been wild

When I moved to the US, one of the first things I noticed was how big the portion sizes were. When I went to a diner, I was shocked when the server brought me a plate of pancakes bigger than my head.

The same is true when it comes to coffee. I’ve found that in Colorado, people walk around with massive cups that they sip on all day. If I’m being honest, however, I miss the tiny servings of espresso I was used to having in Italy.

Life moves at a much faster pace in Colorado

Italians really know how to relax and enjoy the moment. We take our time with meals, strolls, and just about everything else.

In Colorado, however, everything feels like it’s in fast forward. People are always rushing — rushing to work, rushing through meals, and rushing to their next activity. It’s like everyone has a constant adrenaline rush.

The fast-paced lifestyle is exciting but also a bit exhausting.

I walk way less in the US than I did in Italy

When I moved to the US, I was surprised by how unbelievably patriotic the Fourth of July celebrations are — it’s like a sea of red, white, and blue.

Everyone goes all out, from the candies to the clothing and house decorations. Even some of the food packaging gets a patriotic makeover. It’s a level of national pride I’ve never seen before.

Celebrating my first 4th of July made me feel overwhelmed with happiness because I never would have expected to feel so included in a place I never expected to call home.

All in all, moving to Colorado has been a series of culture shocks, but it’s also been an adventure.

I’m still learning to blend my Italian roots with my new American life, and even though it’s challenging at times, it’s also really exciting. Every day brings something new, and I’m embracing it all — one big cup of coffee at a time.