Ever since I moved to San Diego, I can count on two hands the number of times I have been asked: "Where are you from?" and its variant: You're not from around here, are you?" I don't know what it is about these strangers' questions that really gets me smiling and gets me thinking.
First, I think it is a compliment to stand apart from others in a positive light. This response has been sometimes prompted after I held the door for someone or let them get ahead of me in the checkout line. Other times, it has been followed up by questions about my heritage. Every time the question comes up, it gets me wondering what are people truly thinking. Since I LOVE to over analyze everything, here is what runs through my head:
- Do I look so plain that I stand out from everyone else?
- Do I look so unique that I stand out (Let's hope it's this one!)?
- Do people pigeonhole certain looks to certain locales? They associate San Diego with blondes and being a brunette, I must be from somewhere else.
- Do my East Coast roots shine through loud and clear?
Although there may not be a simple answer, this question always catches me off guard. Don't worry...I will be sure to ask the next stranger why they want to know and what prompted them to ask!
With Love From the West Coast,
XOXO
