Having lived outside of the South (even if it is a short time), it’s amazing to be back and have a reminder of what used to be.

There are always the old men who gather and talk about nothing… in my case today, it’s at the local barbecue joint (that has wi-fi, since it’s not connected at the new apartment yet) and they’re jabbering on about the latest episode of ‘The Biggest Loser’ and what girls look good and don’t. Of course, they’ve already dropped by to look at ‘the little bitty snazzy computer thing’ and to make conversation about it.

Moving into my apartment earlier in the week (to avoid the torrential downpour that was so desperately needed in the drought), so many people said hi or smiled as I was walking in. One guy even invited me to drop by and visit next week with him and his wife. I’m definitely not used to this kind of interpersonal communication. It’s a bit of a change from Washington, D.C.

I’m not complaining… it’s nice, but I feel like I’m rude if I don’t always say hello or introduce myself. It’s a southern custom. And, it’s not adjustable.

I will say that I’m starting to feel a little more settled. But, of course, that could be because I have room to spread out now. It’s nice to have your own space and quiet hours to yourself as opposed to co-habitating with the parentals until I found a place. It was only a few weeks, but everyone’s schedule wasn’t always flexible, and it was difficult at times. But, I enjoyed the food and catching up with the folks.

For now, I’m slowly adapting. It’s taken a month to get to a point where I feel like I actually know my way around again. I still can’t remember what is here, and often find myself thinking I can just call up Manny & Olga’s, just walk up the street to downtown Silver Spring, or catch the metro to head downtown. But, those options aren’t available. Well, right now they aren’t. Hopefully they will be soon.