One of my favorite things about leaving the country was how happy everyone was. (Granted, this happiness generally displayed itself as we were leaving a place, but I'm choosing not to analyze that.)
In London, then all over Scotland, peeps of all ages, sizes and origins cheerfully called out, "Chee-ahs, lovey!"
Whether we were exiting a restaurant, had just ordered some coffee, or were leaving a store -- ahem, I mean shop -- we received the same salutation:
"Cheers."
However touristy or fake this was, the warmth of receiving this word in small cities and larger towns alike certainly worked its magic on my soul.
And how sweet it was.
"Chee-ahs."
I'll definitely drink a spot o' tea to that!
