I should have taken their picture, but I didn't. I can tell you what happened, though, and you'll think it's fun. If you're from America, you'll understand, and if you're from the South, you'll really understand. If you're from Europe or the UK, you'll probably find something about the story that resonates with you too. I'll tell you how it started, and how it went, and you'll know that the moment you step foot in America, and find yourself in the South (or the Southwest) you'll be greeted by some crazy woman, just like me - it will happen. Prepare yourself.
So, I live in El Reno, Oklahoma, which is one of the must-see cities on Historic Route 66. Route 66 is celebrating its 100th birthday this year, so naturally, we have a lot more guests coming through town than we usually do, and it puts a big smile on our faces to see all the folks from around the country and the world. The couple I met today was no exception. He was from Germany, she was from Sweden. They were in town for only one day, but I talked them into staying the night at a decently priced motel just off HWY 81 and I-40 -- tomorrow they will attend church, go to an open BBQ, and be on their way.
I went downtown to take photos, to see my friends who own S&S Downtown Bargains, and to get my steps in. I have been trying to walk a mile a day, which may not seem like much to you, but my hip has been really bad for a while, so one mile is good for me. I take it slowly, and I do it right. I walked the streets of El Reno, met people, and pointed them in the right direction to give them a great Southwestern experience. His name, believe it or not, is Hans. Her name is Deidre. He goes by John most of the time, though, since his father is also a Hans. We shook hands at the big white Route 66 sign in the middle of town.
I helped the couple by taking their picture. Both had reservations about giving me their phone. I gave them mine to hold, and they agreed. We talked about their trip, and I noticed Deidre couldn't stop looking at my T-shirt. It was blue, and in white lettering it reads "Ya'll need Jesus". She smiled and said, "You'd be asked to turn the shirt inside out in our countries. It could offend someone." I laughed. "Well, it should offend. Jesus didn't come to earth, die for our sins, and resurrect Himself to show off - it was to fight Satan and take souls to Heaven; offended souls who like their sin." Yes, that's what I told them. They smiled.
Hans told me they were believers, too, and loved the strong personalities they were finding in America. They flew into Chicago, rented a car, and are driving Route 66 all the way to Santa Monica, and they'll fly back to Germany from L.A. Great trip. I asked them if they found folks to be a little different in the South than they are up in Chicago - they laughed and said, "Are you kidding? No one talked to us there, unless they were serving us or it was their job. Here, people come up to us, realize we are newcomers, and shake our hands, tell us where to go, give us tips, and offer advice. It's wonderful."
Since it was only 10:30 in the morning, the hamburger joints weren't open yet. We have 3 really good onion burger restaurants in El Reno. I pointed them out. They're literally within two blocks of each other. I told them where the S&S store and the feed store were, because that's always fun, and I pointed out the museum. They promised to go to the museum, so when I left them, I went and paid their entrance fee. When they show up, they'll try to pay, and the good ladies there will tell them it's been paid. I think that will make their day!
I knew there would be a big community gathering in the park tomorrow, where they would be welcome. I think it's free, but if not, it won't be much. It is a place where people meet to donate things, pick up things they need, and just talk and get along. Hans looked at me. He stared at me and asked if I was serious. I told him I was. They'll stay tonight in a hotel, after going to Walmart (his 1st time, her 2nd), and they'll hit up the casino this evening before going to a really fresh and open service tomorrow at a church that often meets outdoors if the weather is nice. They won't forget El Reno, Oklahoma. If they had come last week, they would have seen the world's largest onion burger! It's a yearly thing we do here.
If you're from Europe, and you see folks waving for no reason, smiling, and coming at you, you can bet those folks are not only American, they're from the South. Be calm -- they're usually some of the nicest folks you'll ever encounter. I can only imagine what they'll think when they meet Steve. He's a Native Cheyenne-Arapaho man. He's probably 6'3", a little over 300 pounds, and has a big, big smile to go with his big, big personality. I would love to be in the store when he greets them. They will not forget El Reno, Oklahoma!
Photo Credit: Me
No comments:
Post a Comment