"Just a small town girl...

...living in a lonely world."

Okay, I'll admit it. I really do love living in small-town Western South Dakota. I love the laidback nature of everything, I love knowing most of the people in town, and I love that everyone gets excited about the one social event that happens every week (yup, one...either you go or you don't, but if you don't you are screwed until next week's social event). And, I used to love knowing all the little tidbits of gossip that spread like the wildfires that are sure to happen later this summer due to the lack of moisture.

Until I became one of those tidbits. First of all, it is tough to be single in a small town. First of all, almost everyone is in a relationship. Second, since everyone is paired up it is hard to find anyone to even be in a relationship with. Third, as soon as you find someone, EVERYONE knows. Sometimes even before you do.

Enter my situation. For the past few months, it seems like I have been dating my small town. No, not like I have been seeing a few eligible bachelors from time to time. Rather, it is like I am being interrogated, paraded around, and pushed in different directions towards different guys. It is such a weird feeling. And, the nice young man who I am being pushed toward didn't know much of this was going on until a few weeks ago. I feel a bit like I am entering into an arranged marriage (actually, there are people planning our wedding already, but that is a different story completely...).

To make it even odder, people don't just "see" eachother here. They date. And not "go out on dates to see if there is a possibility of a relationship;" they are instantly in a relationship and are "boyfriend and girlfriend" almost as soon as they start talking to one another. Nothing like skipping all the pre-relationship stuff I guess.

So, here I sit, on a Sunday (at work no less, but that is part of the job I've found) knowing that people are asking questions, placing bets, and saying the ever present "they are such a cute couple" (heard that one a few times...or a million) even though I am not completely sure that I am half of the "couple" of whom they speak.

Small towns amaze me. And, despite the issues that arise, I wouldn't trade 'em. At least for now.