L e x- i n g- t o n , K e n - t u c k y

...I wrote it that way because I imagine that the locals speak a bit more slowly. Names and places probably roll off the tongue with a twang, too. Ahh....THE SOUTH!!

I have some Southern roots. My grandmother was raised in the "Carah-lahnas", as she so lovingly reminds her "shoogas" (aka grandchildren). My dad grew up in Virginia and my parents actually met out in the District of Columbia...which isn't exactly the South, but it's fairly close! Not to mention that my brother, Matthew, was recently called on a two year church mission to Little Rock, Arkansas. Fun!

Anyway, back to my reason for this post. Anyone ever heard of Southern hospitality? Well, in searching for housing, we've received just a glimpse of it in conversing with and corresponding with people in Lexington.  Apparently, Louisville is only an hour away, but is much more modern and has more of a Western feel. Lexington has retained its Southern charm and feel because the people have wanted it so.

In speaking with people, they are so eager to help out, answer questions, and go out of their way to be of some service. It was so refreshing to hear them offer help and then to sincerely ask if there was anything else they could do for us. I haven't seen these people or met them in person! They don't know me! Yet they are so willing to help us. I think I'm going to love the people in Kentucky. They could teach me a thing or two :)

It seems here in Utah (well, I'll admit, my home state was quite this way, at times, too) people don't really think about helping someone else anymore. I don't want to turn this into a Utah-bash post. As many of you already know, I have my qualms about the culture and people of Utah. I feel sorry for those who aren't members of the church here; They truly see many stupid mentalities.

I found an apartment and knew that we'd need someone in-state to check it out. I asked Trent to call one of the local bishops to see if there was someone who might be able to help. When Trent called, the bishop's wife answered. She was so eager to answer questions and immediately meet our needs. Trent told her of the apartment and the area we were thinking of moving into. She asked for the phone number to call so she could set up an appointment to see the apartment. She also was concerned for ME. Why me? She said that there weren't many people in that area of that ward boundaries and she wanted to make sure that I would be able to have friends nearby and not be lonely. Well, I'll be. I hadn't even thought of that myself! :) That is so thoughtful!


This was just one example of several people that I've spoken with or corresponded with. They just have a different attitude and outlook. L e x i n g t o n ... I think I'm going to like you.