Okie(s) in Florida

And I’m not talking about with Ryan.

The other day, I went to working lunch with my boss.  We were meeting a young gentleman regarding some partnership opportunties.  I had never met this man before.

We meet, everyone shakes hands, and we head to our table.  We had a nice meeting and a good lunch, and then we head for the door and are on our way back to our offices.

This man hugs my boss, gives her a kiss on the cheek. Then he hugs me and gives me a kiss on the cheek.

Excuse me?  I just met you.

I let it go and think it’s probably just his personality.  Whatever.

Then I meet one of our board members on Thursday.  She and I greet each other with a smile and a handshake.  But we end the meeting with her hugging me and kissing me on the cheek.

This is getting uncomfortable.

We had a golf tournament yesterday.  I bet I got hugged and kissed on the cheek by complete strangers maybe 20 times.

I have personal space.  I don’t like being hugged or kissed by people I don’t know.  I can’t even remember these people’s names and they’re kissing me like we’re old friends?!

I hear it’s a Florida thing.  I’m so uncomfortable about it, but what am I going to do?  I can’t just step back from their hug and stick out my paw for a handshake.  That’s rude.

Guess I’m going to have to get used to it.  Great.

-Kathryn