Bless Your Books Blog

By Courtnee Turner Hoyle: My father’s fourth wife was originally from the northern states. She

was very affectionate, and she commented on the southern-style hugs that went around during one of our family’s holidays. I didn’t think about the difference until she mentioned it, but then I noticed the subtle variations.

Mothers and grandmothers tended to throw their arms around me and hold on tightly. Sometimes, it felt like they were trying to rescue me from an unknown threat, but it was really so they could hold onto me a little longer.

Dads and grandfathers extended one-armed hugs, but they squeezed the opposite arm to let me know they cared. That is, if they got up from their easy chairs. If not, one arm circled my back as I bent over them, and they watched the football game or NASCAR race out of the corner of one of their eyes.

Aunts and uncles squeezed the life out of me (extra points if they hadn’t seen me for a “coon’s age”). Aunts accompanied their hugs with slobbery kisses, and uncles tightened their arms around my core until I cried for mercy.

Cousins gave me a one-armed pat. As for the other guests, it depended on my level of familiarity with them. I don’t think I’ve said more than two words to my cousin’s long-time boyfriend, but we nodded as we passed each other at the door. However, my stepmother, caught up in the exchange of love around her, insisted on hugging me right after we met.

Wherever you’re located-and whoever you hug-it’s nice to have a warm embrace. I hope you have many hugs today!