A while back mom Mom and I were talking about some of the different sayings/terminology that we have heard here in the south. My folks live in Florida. My father transferred down there to work on the shuttle program right before the Challenger disaster. They came from California as well.

• Bless her heart: One of the things that struck me funny was "bless her/his heart" and how it was used. "Well, you know Mabel, bless her heart." It seems that it doesn't really matter who you are talking about either, or what the subject is.
• Fixin: And what is it about fixin? "I'm fixin to make some meatloaf for dinner."
• Sweet Tea: Of course one must not forget sweet tea. Down here, if you ask for iced tea, it will automatically come in the sweet variety unless you ask otherwise.
• Barbeque: Until I moved to the south, I was under the impression the BBQ was something you did to meat, not something you ate.
• Greens: I just can't get past the thought that I'm eating grass or weeds.
• Steamed Cabbage: I used to think that cabbage was used only for cole slaw or for wrapping up a filling (stuffed cabbage). When done right (especially with some sausage and onions), it turns out wonderfully.
• Chitlins: I never knew what those were until I moved here. Then I made the mistake of asking. I'm ashamed to admit that I have friends who love this particular item. I just can't go there.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm fixin to go make some BBQ, with a side of greens and hog guts. Walter is coming to dinner tonight, bless his heart.

Your assignment? What are some of the things that you find funny/different/interesting in our part of the country? Post them here in the comments.