we hosted a fancy reception at our new downtown store last nite for patrons of the lena pope home. i got to work the crowd, glad hand, and take drink orders. it was lots of fun. several peeps gave me business cards, an odd but friendly gesture. a country radio personality was there (let's call him "steve") as well as a local news anchor (we'll call her "deb") . i was surprised to learn that deb is a major Close Talker. she leaned in to tell me her drink order in the manner of one confessing a dark secret. several times i tried subtly backing up to maintain a respectable distance, but she kept closing in on my ear just the same. personal space issues aside, she was quite friendly.

i love to schmooze.