Four More Hours in the USA

I am uncomfortable asking for things – phone numbers, money, favors, help, beverages. Asking with a confident tone like, “Hey can you get me that number and while you’re at it bring me a pair of scissors, a cup of coffee and help me with the dishes. Thanks a lot, I appreciate it,” beats my method: “Hi. I, um, can you, you said that your friend – this is Jon - knew how to draw horses? Well, if, um, maybe you could call her or I could ‘cause I need, well, we need one, a horse drawing or at least a lesson in horse drawing but if you’re busy its okay we can find someone else. I’m sorry.” That’s the way I do it. This is what’s on my mind hours before leaving the country.