Anyone from back East (that includes the Midwest)?
So I went to a wedding in Cleveland over the weekend. I know you’re probably thinking, Cleveland’s not “back East.” But to an Arizona girl who’s never lived anywhere further than Colorado … it’s the Far East!
Anyways, I’ve now been to D.C., Pittsburg, Maryland (briefly), and Cleveland. I’ve noticed some big differences, unexpected differences, in the people.
First of all everyone talks to you, no one seems to be a stranger or too busy to give you a second or two in passing.
Another difference, folks seemed to be less worried about money and didn’t really talk about their job or income. Fancy cars and far too expensive houses weren’t a priority at least among the people I met. Maybe that’s why folks seemed to crack more jokes and smile a little more.
It was cold, windy and snowed…. I just thought we’re really lucky out West where the weather’s almost always perfect, where we get to see blue sky all the time, and where if we slowed down a little to say hi to each other, make a little small talk, we’d have sunshine in our lives everyday.
Interesting observations. Coming from the East (Connecticut’s coastline) I remember well talking to everyone who passed my path. Not until I read your blog post did I realize how removed I am from that here in AZ. Suddenly I feel very lonely.
Yuo are so Right on! I am from the midwest and that could not be more true! People are far less worried about the Who’s who, cars, incomes, etc. and pay much more attention to supporting friends and family. Education is still a major focus, which explains why schools are so far ahead of ours, and conversations revolve around things that matter! I,m so glad you were greeted with smiling faces, even if you did not catch any sunny weather!
I wish we were a little slower and didn’t have the material crazies as most people do here. I find myself getting caught up in it only to realize that life is so much more.
LOL.. I soooo agree. I was born and raised here in Scottsdale and you could’nt of been anymore right on target w/ re: to your description of Cleveland. I went back there last summer. First time. Its such an entirely different game back there. Exactly how you saw it is how I saw and experienced it….. However, with out the snow. lol…
sjd
I am glad you had a great time back east. I lived in Indiana for a long time before moving here. You are right…big homes and fancy cars are not a priority there, and neighbors do get together for last minute “bring what ya made” and have dinner with us meals. Then go back in winter when the weather is freezing, and you have not seen the sun for 2 weeks cuz it is so overcast… I’ll take Arizone anyday!
I miss seeing you Kim in the AM and how nice your style of reporting is. How about you doing more inside the Studio and at the reporting desk. That would be a plus for Channel 3! That is what we, our Family think. Still look forward to seeing you doing such a good job in bringing us the news in the AM. Thanks, Rich and Ida
Kim,
I have been reading though the blogs and reports from the tragedy this past Friday. First I am truely sorry for your loss. They were wonderful, incredible journalist.
I ran across your blog about being from back east. I am from Maryland. I lived in the city of Salisbury, about 30 minutes from Ocean City. You are right when you say the people are different. It is day and night. I miss the small town feeling, but in some ways they are alike. In Phoenix and surrounding cities, look at how everyone has come together to send flowers and express their condolences for this tragedy that has happened. People you don’t know are talking to you, hugging you and giving cards, flowers and letters. I guess we really aren’t that different.
Please take care of yourself and God Bless all of you at 3TV and Fox 15.
Sincerely,
Pam Greene
Peoria AZ
Many interesting information on your site – keep up good worku