cucaracha

there are very large cockroaches in this town. it's one of the clues that we really are in the South. so far, it's magical that they aren't in the house, but they are always stomping about on the sidewalk (too big to scuttle, get it?). i've also seen them in the nice wine store - just browsing - seem to like champagne. and they're the reason that one can be ARRESTED for eating in the metro . and tonight there was a very, very fat cucaracha in the middle of the floor at the gym. he was alive, but staying in one spot and doing a belly dance - totally off beat with the new 50 cent single. i was the only one who saw him (or who was hesitant to ignore him, not clear which), and i told the authorities - mainly because he would make a huge mess if accidentally stepped on. eww. the staffer, a big guy, grabbed some paper towels and came with me, but then recoiled, giggled, and refused to touch him. yes, that big.

other clues we are in the South:
- the whole "Miss (firstname)" to address ladies of any age
- folks wear furry mittens when it's 50 degrees ABOVE zero
- i thought they were selling small cigarette packs at hot dog stands, but it turns out that 'half smokes' are sausages. the cigarettes thing seemed southern. guess that one doesn't count.
- no frost yet, second week in november
- choice of homefries or grits