3 1/2 years later

We have now been in Texas for 3 1/2 years. THREE AND A HALF YEARS! I'm still having trouble facing that fact.

Me, a California girl, born and bred, who swore she'd never leave. Me. Blonde, blue-eyed and always working on my tan. Me. Palm trees and oceans in my blood. And a little bit of smog, too.

Three and a half years later... and what have I learned?

That rednecks are all around me... and you know what? They is not so bad. They is truly a fine bunch of people.

It's been said that tire irons, squirrel guns and grit -- are what rednecks are made of. I know I'm lacking in the previous three areas, but I hope that I can someday own some of these next traits of a redneck...

It's been said that...

You might be a redneck if: It never occurred to you to be offended by the phrase 'One nation, under God.'

You might be a redneck if: You've never protested about seeing the 10 Commandments posted in public places.

You might be a redneck if: You still say 'Christmas' instead of 'Winter Festival'.

You might be a redneck if: You bow your head when someone prays.

You might be a redneck if: You stand and place your hand over your heart when they play the National Anthem.

You might be a redneck if: You treat our armed forces veterans with great respect, and always have.

You might be a redneck if: You've never burned an American flag, and never intend to.

You might be a redneck if: You know what you believe and you aren't afraid to say so, no matter who is listening.

You might be a redneck if: You respect your elders and raised your kids to do the same.

You might be a redneck if: You'd give your last dollar to a friend.

I've still got a ways to go on perfecting my 'redneckism' but I do truly believe in all of those definitions. I am a California girl at heart... but I really like these here Texans and all that they stand for. They are a proud bunch of folk and they are kind to the bone. I pray that I have just enough redneck in me now to one day be called a 'Texan.'

Lord willing and if the creek don't rise.
.