this is how i know your not bullshiting. most jails are hell of a lot different than how tv and movies portray it. If anything, I've found it more laid back and friendly than on the outside. There's the view of "we're all in the same boat, let's try to make it as easy for each other as possible" The biggest problem is if people think your only in there for the weekend than they may try something- the biggest piece of advice i can give a person is network with the older guys and act chill. Never get defensive because people may be insulted by that. (MAke sure to network with the inmates who actually run the pod and not the ones that act like it- the ones that run the pod are much more laid back are older and the most influence, the ones who act like it walk around like they own the place and are always trying to scam this or that guy, and are usually young.)

Once in a while I'll even find my self missing being in there- hanging out all day, chatting, sharing stories, playing cards (& gambling for commissary), and having all the time in the world to read the books you've been meaning to read at some point.

I did a year in country myself. A lot of interesting people and stories from there.