Sunday, August 16, 2009

Beijinhos Anyone?

I went to the movie's the other night with a couple of sister-in-law's and my sister-in-law Jill asked me when I was going to post a new blog! I didn't think anyone was paying attention! I guess I need to get writing, if only for my own benefit.

I met a new gal at church today. I have decided that American women need a way to greet women. Whenever I meet a new woman, I always smile, and greet them in a friendly manner, but otherwise stand there awkwardly. What do I do I think to myself? I don't mind offering my hand to a male, but to offer my hand to a female seems so, well, manly. It just feels a little awkward. So what do we do? Hug? Too intimate. Even if I were brave enough, I think someone might want to call the police. The Portugese offer beijinhos (little kisses). I spent two weeks in Portugal with my husband several years ago. Every time I was introduced to a woman, she would lean over and "pretend" kiss both of my cheeks. It was a warm and wonderful way to meet someone new. But we don't do that over here. Maybe we come up with something and start a new trend. Any suggestions?

5 comments:

  1. Yea! Keep up the great job! I know what you mean about meeting new women! We have had alot of new sisters move into our ward lately. How do you greet them? I tend to gravitate to the ones holding a baby since Im usually standing the hall holding mine. :)

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  2. I know what you mean. When I worked for the King and Queen that is how they always greeted us, men or women and I thought it was very endearing and respectful. I had a few friends in D.C. that would do it as well and my friend Lorena does it (Venezuela). Not sure why it hasn't caught on here in the US.

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  3. Yea!... I made it to the TRUE blog! I really like this question. I will ponder about it. I think we shake hands way too much at church anyway. Why can't we just do as in the days of old and say, "Pleasure to me you." and do a little curtsey. Of course, I am a clutz, so I would probably fall over.

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  4. Here is what I do... I usually do the forearm rub or gentle squeeze and say, "It is so nice to meet you." (This move is usually best executed when you stand slightly to the side of the person.) I feel like it is less awkward than a hug but more feminine than a hand-shake. I think there is something to be said about the power of touch... it makes greeting seem more sincere. Who knows, you may start a trend and pioneer the new American Beijinhos!

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  5. Kathleen, you are so funny! I love it!

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