The first time someone visits the Bible Belt, they will encounter a phenomenon that is still misinterpreted. They will be driving along or walking somewhere and make eye contact with someone from the Deep South, who then will surprise the Yankee (a term for anyone not from the Bible Belt, not just someone from the North) when they will smile and speak to you or otherwise make a gesture of greeting. Contrary to what this looks like, it is not a sign of friendliness, but one of politeness, a virtue much more important.
This is the most important custom that MUST be learned by anyone new to the Belt. It is quite acceptable and tolerable to appear to be unfriendly, uncultured, and antisocial...but to appear to be impolite is unforgivable. And it doesn't matter how important you may be or what station in life you may hold. Appear to be impolite and you will be shunned, talked badly about, and might even be scolded. If you happen to have relatives in the area, you better believe that they will be informed of your transgression.
Famous Hollywood director Tim Burton recently had a head-on collision with this custom while filming "Big Fish". The production, filmed just a few miles from my home, almost came to a complete stop until Burton made a public apology for his misbehavior. To the rest of the country, 'misbehavior' would entail something scandalous, but for Burton it was simply not speaking or otherwise acknowledging folks as he walked through downtown Prattville. The misdeed, as well as the apology, was broadcast by all the local news channels and printed in all the local newspapers, it was such a big deal to the people here. A simple nod of acknowledgment when he made eye contact would have saved him a lot of trouble.
True Southern homes reflect this custom; the big open yards, the lively landscaping, and the large porches are part of every one, so no matter how big or small the home is, it appears polite and inviting. "A Stately Manor" is such a home. A large spacious home originally built in 1860, it's owned by descendants of the original builders and is part of a "Front Porch and Parlor Tour" in Pine Apple, Alabama. Fourteen historic homes are on the tour, and a bountiful fried chicken lunch with all the fixins is served. If you're ever in the area, check it out!
thanks to macarossi at MTS2 for the fab windows. Here's a link to her member page there so you can see everything!
http://www.modthesims2.com/member.php?u=44745Also thanks to simnuts101 for the Le Petite Trianon collection here:
http://www.modthesims2.com/member.php?u=42946Also, Temptress at MTS2 for her wonderful windows!
http://www.modthesims2.com/member.php?u=162102And, if you haven't already gotten it, you'll need Numenor's CEP program, a totally awesome piece of work you can find here:
http://www.modthesims2.com/showthread.php?t=92541&page=1&pp=25 Don't forget to thank the creators for their hard work. The 1930's Packard in the photos isn't included with the lot, but if you want it, let me know and I'll tell you where to get it. My Sims love this home, I think yours will, too. Once you've made eye contact with this home, you will have to give it a nod and check it out.
Welcome Home.
