Uhn-Huh

I just got back from a few days in Deecee. I was there trying to sort out a place to live, making sure my work Visa was in order, applying for a social security card and making sure my future coworkers seem normal enough. I think I managed to do all that. Finding the apartment was the hardest part. I spent the two days walking around, buzzing building managers, and hearing that cats can't live there. One place I saw allowed kitties, but in addition to charging $250 pet deposit, a $25 monthly PET RENT was also required. Now that just won't do. The Weeg would always be late with her rent. She's a total slacker when it comes to work....falling asleep on the job, showing up late, you know. And as much as I love her, I would hate to get in a situation where I resent always paying her rent. I don't want money to come between The Weeg and me.

Anyway, I think she'll be pleased with her new accommodations. There are lots of windows where she can monitor the birds and squirrels of Deecee.

The one thing that bugged me even more than the Pet Rent issue is this little habit a large number of Americans seem to have. Saying Uhn-Huh instead of "you're welcome."

Seekay: Thanks for the coffee.
American: Uhn-Huh.

Why, why do they do that? I'm sure they don't mean to be rude, but to my polite little Canuck ears, it's so jarring! It drives me nuts and everytime I hear it I want to say "I beg your pardon?" And in that adult tone of voice too. I know it's a cultural thing and they really don't intend for it to sound that way, and to them it obviously doesn't, but I imagine if I said that to someone here it would not go over very well.

I'll keep y'all posted.