I think I scare people.

Seriously, I do. Like the sales associates at Bath and Body Works. I was in there today, buying some of my favorite minty lip gloss (C.O. Bigelow Spearmint Mentha Lip Shine is AWESOME, and tasty), and you know how they kind of attack you in there? Well, let me jog your memory. They've got sales girls stationed at strategic points throughout the store, from the door all the way to the back cash wrap. And each and every one bombards you: "Hello, how are you, welcome to Bath and Body Works, are you finding everything okay? My name is ____, let me know if I can help you. Oh, and we've got this new line, _____, you've got to try it! Would you like a free sample?" On and on and on.

Now, this is good, if over-eager, salesmanship, so whatever. They're doing their job. And most people probably just turn away after a nervous little smile and maybe a "thanks" or, "fine, and you?" That's what they're used to. How do I know? I've been there. Well, not there exactly, but I've worked retail. And it made me really mad when people would either act all mousy, or ignore you. So when I go shopping, I'm purposely friendly. Friendly to the point of bubbling over. And I'm loud, too. They can't ignore me or pretend like they didn't hear me asking how they're doing. And some try to, which is really frustrating.

The most enjoyable thing about my overzealous shopping experiences, however, are the looks and responses I get. Some people are really friendly back, some take a moment or so to realize that they're talking to a real live interested person, but most are scared to death. Shocked, terrified, it's all the same. I mean, who expect the itty bitty, 5'2'' brunette to be the friendly customer? Not many, apparently.

S'all good fun, though, making people run away and making other people smile. You should try it some time.