Fitting in as an immigrant
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2/4/2010
As an immigrant from Ireland and someone who has transplanted to the US because I have married an American, my experience of feeling part of the local community here in Topeka has been a mixed bag; on the one hand, grocery shopping and all the usual shopping needs have been a very positive experience. The people in the service industry are very kind, warm and helpful and in particular the staff at almost all of the local Dillons supermarkets (Kroger) are just wonderful. However, as a mother of 2, a baby and a toddler, it has been virtually impossible to make friends with other mothers and people in general. I have been snubbed almost most of my 2 and a half years I have been living here. I won't give up, but I have to say this aspect is very hard for a newcomer who doesn't know anybody. People seem to be in their own world and don't take notice of others or else there are clicks that are inpenetratable.
LIsa | Topeka, KS