Posted in Virginia
November 26, 2019
7 Things That Always Happen When A Virginian Says Goodbye
Saying goodbye is a common experience shared around the globe, whether you’re leaving a friend, dinner party, or someone you’ve briefly run into at the grocery store. Yet here in Virginia, the stages of goodbye are pretty recognizable. If you happen to be from the Old Dominion, you will most likely recognize the following 7 steps of saying goodbye (or, more accurately, attempting to say goodbye).
This is the initial cue that you'll slowly begin your exit process. It's a signal to your spouse, friend, or whoever you might have arrived with that you would like to leave in the next 40 to 75 minutes.
...because you don't want to be rude! Attending a dinner party most likely means that a friend has spent time putting together a meal and it's difficult to pass up seconds. This is followed by another "I guess we really should head out now" or a few well-timed yawns.
Here in Virginia, hugging or handshaking is a process that is to be taken seriously. You must acknowledge everyone present, oftentimes including babies and pets. During this time, you will also be interviewed about the route you plan on taking after you leave. Prepare to engage in some friendly yet serious debate.
This stage in the goodbye process can last anywhere between 10 and 30 minutes. Someone in the party will remind you to say hello to everyone in your entire family and you'll follow up with a reminder to email that pie recipe over. A third person will shout out "don't forget to look up that video I was telling you about!" and before long, everyone could be back in the living room watching something on YouTube.
The plot thickens. Prepare for a few rounds of photo taking and know that while that final walk through the door is approaching, you won't be getting there anytime soon. Since everyone is standing so close anyway, another round of hugs and handshakes is initiated.
The finish line has never been so close! You've slowly walked a few feet backward and have now made contact with the door. You'll be here for a few more minutes while everyone makes plans about the next group event. Smile, nod, but whatever you do, don't take your hand off that doorknob.
It's likely that you'll actually be walking backward as you exit, so be sure to watch your step! Slowly closing the door while another chorus of goodbyes, thank yous, and last-minute jokes emerge is your signal that you've made it. Politely laugh even if you haven't really heard any of the jokes and make a dash to your car so you can honk, wave, or flash your lights. The saying goodbye process is now complete!
Of course, these stages can vary by region or occasion, but they’re pretty standard across the state. Would you add any steps to this goodbye process? Join the conversation in the comments below!
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