Glenda Smith
Director of Client Relations for Baer, Timberlake, Coulson & Cates
Tulsa, Oklahoma
GSmith@baer-Timberlake.com

My name is Glenda Smith and I am a hugger.  There are not many of us left. In this technological world we live in people communicate through emails, Fed-x or by telephone most of the time and it is hard to send a good hug through an email.  Anyone who knows me is aware whenever they see me they will get a hug.  I come from a long lineage of huggers. When I see someone I haven’t seen in a while I get excited and must have a hug!  There are different kinds of hugs: 

Run & Leap Hug (usually for one’s spouse or significant other)

Big Bear Hug (really, really happy to see that person!)

Gentle Hug (it has been that long since I last saw you but I still feel the need for a hug)

Almost Hug (lean in toward the person and pat them on the back, no other  contact other than maybe a pretend kiss to the cheek because you are not sure this person likes to be touched but I’m happy to see them and I will still try and get my hug)

Basic hug (you know what I’m talking about)

Now that you know about my hugging addiction I will tell you about some of those people I like to hug the most.  My Husband, David, and I were high school sweethearts. On May 3, 2009 we will have been married 34 years! 

I am a military wife.  David has been serving his Country since March 1975.  It always makes me proud when he picks me up at the airport in his uniform or someone comes up and thanks him for his service to his Country.  He has spent his adult life helping to defend our Country so that we can all continue to have our freedom.   I don’t know about you but I’m proud to be an American!

I have two beautiful daughters who each have given me a Grandchild.  My oldest daughter, J.J., brought my Grand-daughter, Teylor, into my life on August 28, 2007.  Teylor is all girl and loves “bling”.   She thinks her Papa (David) is the greatest person on this earth.  My youngest daughter, Jessica, brought my Grand-son, Jackson, into my life on May 20, 2008.  Jackson is all boy.  He already knows how to throw a ball and took his first steps today! (March 1).  He also loves for Momma and Mimi (that’s me) to hug and kiss him on the neck where he has a tickle spot (I’m thinking he may be a hugger also).   I feel so blessed!

I have been in this business since 1981.  During all this time the industry has gone through so many changes!  One thing I tell myself daily and our new employees is the following:  “Always be courteous, patient and treat the borrowers with respect.   Remember, I/you could be in their shoes”.

Well, this has turned out to be more like a page out of my diary than a bio.  I guess that is fine since one of the benefits of our Pearls Group is getting to know each other and our Clients on a more personal level.  I hope this gives you some insight to my life.

I can’t wait to see each of you and give you a big, bear hug!

Glenda