I first met The Travelocity Roaming Gnome in print and online ads while preparing for my first interview in the advertising industry with McKinney. You see, I haven't had a TV for 10 years, so I had not heard the Gnome's voice-that enthusiastic, almost juvenile squawk. And our eyes had locked only briefly through a banner ad or a newspaper insert. But that was eight months ago. Now I see Mr. Gnome every day.

McKinneyites' pride and affection for the little man in the blue coat, black boots and red hat are evident in his presence around the office. He's on bookshelves, desks, floors, coffee mugs and computer monitors.

He's hanging in a string of lights and blown up on a plastic bag.

I cannot get a cup of coffee or use the restroom without meeting his steadfast gaze.

But the Gnome's pensive look camouflages an adventurous, social spirit. Even with his hands perpetually in blue pockets, he embraces new cultures, sports and cuisines. He has danced in a grass skirt, jumped off a cliff and been submerged in crushed ice on a seafood buffet. Having been dragged behind a horse and to the marriage altar, the Gnome inspires others to get out and do what there is to get out and do.

The sound of his voice, though not often heard, carries a raspy falsetto tone and a peculiar European accent. To my ears it rings metropolitan, which is unusual for someone who originated in a garden and who, like me, appreciates the outdoors. However, the Gnome is also technologically savvy, spending much of his time lately on Chatroulette. My TV-less life is hardly unplugged, so I value this online acumen.

I also dig his look: few modern men accessorize as tastefully as the Gnome, who always dons a hat and belts his coat. And though some women dislike oodles of facial hair, I find the Gnome's clean, white beard dashing. He keeps it nicely trimmed, never allowing it to fall below his gold belt buckle.

So. If you haven't already guessed, I have a little crush on the Gnome. It is my burden to bear - spending hours every week around a man attached physically to a mound and matrimonially to a Playboy Bunny. However, the perks of working at McKinney far offset this emotional weight I carry. For now.

(Mr. Gnome, if the Bunny doesn't pan out, let me know.)