Meeting Folks

Well, I've been in town sixteen days now, officially by my lease. And, if I count correctly, I have met 26 people and two dogs by name already. In addition to a few other folks, whose faces I know without name. Though I think I know more people by name than by face only. And most of them, I know by both first and last names. I'm quite sure I have met more people by first and last name here already than I did in several years in my New Jersey town!

People are primarily curious here, I would say, interested in sussing out a stranger appearing regularly suddenly. After curious, I think, equal parts helpful, definitely wary, and, indeed, friendly. I have always received good help, when I've asked for it. Conversation is easily had with many, and there is a widespread pleasure in the gab. And folks do perform actual introductions with frequency, which is wonderful. My last name is sometimes considered carefully, in vain attempt to place it with a locally known family.

Demographically, I think I've met:

• 14 men, 12 women
• 24 white people, 2 black people, 0 other people of color
• one kid, four people in their 20s, three in their 30s, seven 40s, three 50s, six 60s, two 70s

I'm not sure I have met any women my age.

There are only three people, whose names I do not know, who've seemed pointedly unfriendly. For exact reasons I do not know. All men between about 45 and 65.