I am a private type of person.

Home is my castle. I love the quiet. I absorb the time to stretch out and not think about anything except whatever I want – or need – to think about. As my friend, Ginger Moore of Neos Creations, says (so well), “Every woman needs her pampering time.” Oh, yes, we do!

When I am traveling on the road, or just simply out and about on errands, I love to chat with people.

A few days ago, I suddenly remembered myself as a child, sitting in the car with my mother. She remarked, “Where is your dad? He never meets a stranger.” She had to wait in the car a lot, and often, as my father chatted with people. I am sure it required patience. I’ve become him.

I love talking with people. We are all so different, yet we are so much alike. It is fascinating!

For now, because I think we all need a bit of friendly love (stop looking at your feet – please –  enjoy life!), I have decided to give the friendliest award to the State of Tennessee.

Let me tell you all about it. We pulled into the front of a crowded Wal-Mart parking lot in Tennessee. I was tired of truck stop food. I walked across (what felt like) one hundred parking lanes to purchase groceries. Every single person in that store, despite the crazy Christmas shoppers, crowded aisles, and busy deli case, were just as sweet and friendly as they could be. I loved their southern charm. I loved their polite ways, their smiles, their warm dispositions. Perhaps I caught Tennessee on a good day. I don’t know. What I do know is, I was impressed. And it made my day. I walked back to the truck with a huge smile on my face, with a refreshed lightness in my step.

Thank you!