During our recent travels through the South, we met scores of wonderful new people. In Mobile, we attended a magazine launch and visited several art galleries, gathering memories and business cards along the way. In New Orleans, we met fellow travelers, locals out on the town and locals working in the cafes, bars and restaurants, gathering more memories and names and e-mail addresses scribbled on scraps of paper and napkins.

Call us old-fashioned, but when we get a number or an e-mail, we follow-up with a thank you and an “it sure was nice to meet you.” We may or may not have the pleasure of ever again seeing our new friends and acquaintances, but either way, who doesn’t like to get a call, note or e-mail of hello and “thanks for the laughs” or “the suggestions of things to do and see” or “I hope to see  you again in September” from a person whose company you enjoyed? Also, it’s a great excuse to use the new fountain pen and paper you bought during your travels (see yesterday’s post).

Finally, if you don’t just want to be a lovely person leaving a trail of kindness and good will in your path, think of it as networking. One never knows where the next great opportunity might lie.

Cheers!

M