The Wave

Street side version of "The Wave"

Ever been to the Upper Peninsula in Michigan? All the way up there, to Copper Harbor? Jeff, my favorite husband, and I love it up there. One of these days we'll have a little place of our own and only "cross the bridge" back to the mitten when we absolutely have too. In the meantime, we are going to take a little bit of the UP with us everywhere we go.

One thing that really inspires us about Yoopers (those that live in the U.P.) is their unending ability to keep a friendly, positive attitude. Every time we cross the bridge a warm feeling comes over us; don't get any weird ideas here. Smiling as we drive down the two lane highways that crisscross the U.P., everyone we pass waves at us welcoming the crazy trolls from under the bridge (Trolls being the Yooper definition of those that live "under the Mackinac Bridge). It seems to be contagious, too; way better than the Wave at a Tiger Game!

Sunday, while walking down Main Street in Clawson, Jeff and I, crazy "Trolls" that we are thought we'd take the Yooper lead and start waving at people that passed by, including those in their cars. No doubt the store owners on Main had ideas of calling the cops on us. We were just a little too blissful, laughing, waving and pointing.

Initially, people paid no attention to us; in fact, some even scoffed or snubbed us as they drove by. Maybe they thought we were practicing for the parade. Eleven (11) cars drove by before someone actually waved back. Twelve (12) was our lucky number.

All of a sudden it was like the domino effect. Not only were they waving, they were smiling, laughing and pointing, too. They'd see us waving, no doubt wondering, "who the heck is that", put a big smile on their face and wave right back. It was such a cool sight to see. I really wonder how many of them actually thought they knew who we were.

When the majority is welcoming and engaging, Jeff and I firmly believe that the world will be a better place. So, we're taking a survey and it's not going to stop here. We want to know how many of you actually wave to strangers? How many of you embrace the idea of stepping outside the norm and greeting a neighbor or passersby?

Start with us! When you're on Main Street in Clawson this weekend look for the crazy "Trolls" jumping up and down waving at everyone! Instead of just waving back, stop and say "hi". We'd love to hear all about what makes your life a little more blissful!


See you under the bridge!