I am sometimes enthusiastic when meeting new folks. Just have to hear their story. And usually share bits of mine.
Was in Narragansett some time ago and visited a kayaking place.
While talking to the guy I detected an accent. Not the Rhode Island or New England local parlance.
I patiently waited the recommended obligatory time before plunging in with that cringe-worthy, tired old phrase, “You’re not from around these parts.”
Not even in the form of a question. Just a “putting it out there cuz it’s true” statement. Not said, though, in any mean-spirited “you don’t belong here” vein.
I know it totally sounds like something you would hear in the South. “Son, you ain’t from around these parts, are ya?”
He said, “No, I am not.”
I ask, “Texas?”
He replies, “Close.”
Arkansas.
Anyway, we began chatting. I was accompanied by my friend, Karla (who I met when I lived in Dallas) and my youngest daughter.
Karla says, “I’m not from Rhode Island but I live here now. Mary’s a native.”
I exuberantly exclaim, “But we first met each other in Texas!”
And proceeded to tell him our “it’s a small world” story.
Later, I texted her and said, “Oh my gosh, I just realized. The way I described our meeting that fellow must have thought we were a lesbian couple with an adopted daughter!”
Not because Karla was sporting a short, new haircut but because of my enthusiasm for the relationship.
She immediately texted back, “The ones who thought “lesbians” were the authors at the book signing last week. When we asked them to autograph the book beginning, “To Karla and Mary.”
I literally laughed out loud.
Who does that?
It’s true though.
In this particular scenario, it was simply a case of us being cheap, avid readers. Not lesbianism. I can certainly understand the confusion. Lesbian couples would totally share a book.
If it looks like a duck. If it quacks like a duck. And all that.
But it might not always be a duck.
Surround yourselves with friends who truly make you laugh and enjoy the rest of your week!
Just Being Mary 