We recently returned from a trip to New Mexico. My husband's friend (since 5th grade, they are now in their 70s) and his wife had been asking us to visit ever since their new house was finished. It was a lovely trip - they have a beautiful house and there's a lot to see in the Las Cruces area. Beautiful scenery, so different from Chicago, of course.
The two of them had planned quite a few activities for us, which was wonderful. Besides beautiful scenery, good food, and interesting places (like White Sands National Park!) what struck me was how many friends they have made in their time so far in New Mexico. And even more than that, how easily they both interact with everyone.
They picked us up from the El Paso airport and then we stopped at a grocery store there before driving to Las Cruces. In the parking lot of the grocery, Lura started a conversation with the people parked next to us. It started with "would you like this cart?" and ended with us being invited to go on a historical tour of the old section of La Mesilla with the woman's extended family later in the week. Yes, Lura and I went on the tour and had to keep explaining to the very friendly family members that we weren't part of their family, alas.
Meanwhile, the guys were at a men's breakfast. John put together a men's group after moving to Las Cruces that meets every week.
Another day they took us to the lovely mountain town of Cloudcroft. It's a little touristy, but charming and with beautiful scenery. In a cute shop that sells wine, fancy vinegar and oil, we again made new friends while tasting various items.
Yet another day we visited White Sands National Park, which was amazing. And there Lura started a conversation with a group of exchange students from Germany.
I'm an introvert. I like people, but I have a hard time beginning interactions with strangers. My super power is listening attentively to others. Is it possible for me to learn to initiate conversations? I think I would like that. I'll need to practice, I think. And have some sort of strategy to get started.
Here's to trying new things!
You friend sounds a lot like Kathy. She can and does start a conversation with anyone around her. Me, I just stand quietly speaking only if someone starts a conversation with me. Glad you had such an enjoyable time. arjeha
ReplyDeleteWe did! New Mexico is beautiful and very different than Chicago, which is beautiful in its own way.
DeleteLike you, I tend to be an introvert; however, I have had wonderful experiences interacting with others at B & B style places where we would eat breakfast communally. I have met wonderful people, now life long friends, and found out about so many wonderful aspects of life this way. Keep the door open!
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