by Lana Stockton

Created on: May 05, 2010   Last Updated: December 22, 2011

Once in awhile you will hear co-workers talking about how Willie Nelson just showed up last night at this place or another with his guitar and started playing. This happened several times in Austin, Texas when I lived there. Though I was never on the scene when he appeared. It is this kind of laid back fun that makes Texas such a delight. Texans are big on singing and dancing. Sometimes when you least expect it. While in Texas, expect to find a love for life and the outdoors.

Entering Texas southbound I-35, you are greeted with a  large sign that reads, "Don't Mess with Texas." What could that mean? Further down the I-35 corridor nearing the city of Dallas traffic is thick and flowing fast. Maybe flowing isn't the best word.  Traffic is thick and often at a complete standstill.

"Don't Mess with Texas" is later accompanied by a warning sign about littering and how much it could cost you. When I lived in Austin there was an old law on the books that said you can throw two things out the window and it's not littering. Water and feathers. And as long as farmers haul truckloads of chickens on the Interstate you're going to have feathers flying. It may be wise to check the law for updates before getting into your car with a feather pillow and pair of scissors.

Every region of this country has its own terminology for soft drinks. It's very noticeable. In Minnesota people ask for pop. Traveling down the I-35 corridor pop turns to soda pop somewhere near Kansas, then to soda in the southwest. If you aren't used to being offered a soda, try not to imagine a box of Arm&Hammer. You'll get over it and soon this will sound normal.

In Texas, being offered a Coke often is followed by, "what kind do you want...orange or grape? The first couple of weeks here can leave you feeling confused.

Grocery shopping is a treat. Many items are written in both Spanish and English so you can learn another language while shopping. If you are a woman, expect to be called Ma'am. If you are a youngish woman this will make you feel a bit old at first. Please realize that Texas school children are expected to say, "yes, ma'am" to their mothers and female teachers. This display of respect is taught and expected. If you are not accustomed to saying sir and ma'am, you may want to practice before arriving in Texas. This is a minimum standard of manners in the please and thank-you category.

Be patient.  Let Texans finish their sentences without interrupting. They don't need

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