130 Comments
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Harry Jacobson-Beyer's avatar

I don’t know which tune the socks represent but I am pretty sure it’s not Yellow Submarine. 😬

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Tinabeth Chapman's avatar

Love your writing. Caring and listening to the waitress there. Hopefully she Hops to writing her story.

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Connie Mayse's avatar

I don't know about the socks, but the advice you gave the server (about starting with your own life stories) is amazing and I'm stealing it for three new authors I get to work with. Thank you.

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M.A. Hastings Poetry's avatar

My sides are still hurting from laughing at your perfect description of Yours Truly, looking as though, I, too, have been "wrangling anacondas" when I've tried wearing a scarf.

I also loved reading your conversation with the server. Though we've never spoken directly, you have been similarly encouraging to me. The kindness, along with the transparency about your struggles has been a consistent help and encouragement over the years. When you talk about you and Sherrod and Ohio, I miss living there but am warmed by my memories of the same places you mention.

Your recommendation of my Substack has been huge, too. Most of my subscribers, in fact, have come from those kind words from you. Thank you!

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Holly Starley's avatar

I love this encounter with the waitress. May she write her stories.

And those are some pretty fantastic socks.

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Paula Z. Tusler's avatar

I am just like you Connie. I start up a conversation with every working person I come across and try to point them in the best direction.

I once started talking to someone working at TJ Maxx. A recent arrival from another country I suggested she go to work at McDonalds. They provide free: English classes, GED classes and citizenship help. All things I have taught to people arriving from other countries. Very fulfilling work.

Try using a pretty ring to pass both ends of the scarf through. Loop it over your head, slide up the ring and it becomes a lady’s tie.

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Pam's avatar

Your statement regarding scarves tickled my funny bone and I literally laughed out loud. I am the clothesline and my best friend looks like she was born with a scarf around her neck. I never knew there were so many ways to tie a straight piece of material and either look very chic or look like that clothesline.

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Su Holohan's avatar

Another lovely story. Thanks for sharing

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Bonnie Sommer's avatar

lol - I was going to ask you what song they represent. I love your conversation with the waitress. I hope she writes that novel someday. I love you and Sharrod. I live in NJ, so I can’t vote for him, but I am making a monthly contribution to his campaign and praying he wins.

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Cheri Gaul's avatar

It always makes me smile the way you listen and notice and encourage. She will never forget her breakfast guests. I also like the advice you gave her:) Please take good care of you both in this busy season and we look forward to another term in Ohio and more words from you☮️

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GDGoodwin's avatar

You and Sherrod have the gift of being curious and interested in people. That was a wonderful conversation with your server. I imagine she will never forget that strangers showed an interest in her and boosted her spirit.

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Heidi and her goats L's avatar

One can never have too many pairs of socks!

I hope, if you feel like you can, you reach out to the waitress some time in the future. Maybe even by stopping again back at the same hotel. I hope she can find her Muse.

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Tammy Kay's avatar

You Tube and Pinterest have tons of scarf tying tutorials!

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Peggy Rankin's avatar

The woman who was lucky enough to serve you and Sherrod that morning will carry that wonderful encounter forever in her heart. What a gift you two are to us all!

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Sandra K-Horn's avatar

A while back when I was teaching, I saw you and Sherrod at the Ohioana Book Fair. I think you were there with And His Lovely Wife. We talked briefly and you encouraged me to write. Now three books later, I can say I am evidence of your encouragement. BTW- we campaign for your husband every chance we get. Best, S

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Deborah B's avatar

Connie, as a writer myself (marketing communications and poetry), I loved your kind words of encouragement to your server. Whoever said in the comments below that your words feel like a hug--they're right. You're a kind, empathetic person and a thoughtful, brilliant writer. And I love how much you love and admire Sherrod. I would walk through a snowstorm to vote for him. Now, I'd like to wrangle the anaconda issue. On Pinterest or even YouTube, you can find hundreds of videos showing easy ways to drape or tie scarves. Pick one way and make it your signature style. Then there will be no more wrangling; it will become as easy as tying a shoe. And oh, Connie, I'm just going to say it: I wonder if you would consider picking another shade for your "pop of color" with your black outfits. That solid harsh blue, especially with black, looks good on no one. It simply washes out anyone's complexion. Maybe try a bright fuchsia, a grass green, a blue with more green in it (teal or aqua), or a black and white pattern. The anaconda needs a brand new skin! Much luck and love to you and Sherrod. I'm so thankful you're both working to make Ohio stronger.

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