It was a really weird experience.
I was in town for a conference at the U of T just scouting around some of the shops after being cooped up all day with a bunch of academics. I'm in the store and notice a stunning-looking woman trying on shoes. The kind of woman you notice out of the corner of your eye because she looks so fabulous. Shiny hair, stylish outfit, and--here's the kicker-- oddly familiar. I'm trying to place her and then think MICHELLE! Kind of like a celebrity sighting.
I have to admit that I did think twice before introducing myself but it seemed almost rude to not acknowledge someone who I've admired from her comments and insights on this forum and on her blog. So, Michelle, it was kind of fun meeting you in real life. You are every bit as gracious in person as you are online. And, you were by far the most stylish woman in that store.
But, I'm still wondering if I should have just kept quiet and moved on. I'm a 60+ professor who is used to introducing herself to students and colleagues as part of my work; however, now that I'm reflecting on my impulse, I wonder how others feel about introducing oneself to someone you "know" from an online forum? Should I have just kept quiet and walked away? Did I invade Michelle's privacy by introducing myself?
