When I decided to live abroad, I kind of expected not to observe holidays the same way as in America. I've been told that Americans are a exuberant bunch. I didn't believe it at first, but then again, I feel like the holidays abroad are a bit more subdued. If St. Patrick's Day isn't on a weekend, there isn't much ado. The fourth of July is just another day. Not all holidays translate but there are a few similarities. Veteran's Day coincides with Day of Remembrance. Memorial Day which in the states is in May is close to Anzac Day in New Zealand and Australia. There is no substitute for Thanksgiving however. Aside from the controversial origins of the holiday, most Americans uphold Thanksgivin