Knoxville, TN...

Howdy y'all!! No I haven't turned into a southerner don't worry. I just LOVE the way everyone speaks here. 

So I have been in Knoxville, TN for three days so far (well two really as Monday was kind of a write off as I was travelling for the most part of it) and I honestly really love it here. I have been to NY and Boston in my 36 years of life but here in Knoxville it's different. EVERYONE is so so polite here. They pack your shopping away, they box left over food for you to take home! So far, 48 hours in I am mind blown at how nice everyone is. Don't get me wrong people were nice in NY and Boston but here it's different. The only thing I am struggling with are the roads. I can't get used to getting in the car on the opposite side, driving on the opposite side of the road and the turning system at traffic lights. 

Let me try and explain. In the UK we have a filter light on our traffic light systems that allows us to make a left or right turn when the other junction is on green. Here, they have no filter system. At a four way junction, as long as it's safe, you can turn. Problem is there is traffic coming from all directions at you, the are on average 4 or 5 lanes of traffic on each side of the road and there are pedestrian crossings on some!! My friend S is certainly a confident and brave driver as there is NO WAY I could cope with that! I also found out that it is not illegal to drive over here and use your mobile (cell) phone whilst doing so!?! CRAZY! I saw so many drivers yesterday not paying attention to the roads and driving while talking. It's only illegal to text and drive at the same time but in all honesty I don't see the difference!!! 

I'm slowly getting use to the time difference now and I think my jet lag has subsided a little. We only went out briefly yesterday to do some essential shopping (even though all shopping is essential) and had a chill out for the rest of the day. There are plenty more days to explore!!! 

Well I guess it's time for me to jump in the shower! Speak to y'all later ;) 

J xoxo