Stepping out of my comfort zone!

It started out as a regular Tuesday.  It was an "in office" day so I decided to go out for a run to get my day started.  Came home, showered, ate breakfast and left for work.  Sadly, I got some not so good news once I arrived; it seems I can't win, but I won't let it stop me.  I decided in that moment I would not allow that news to get me down.  I'm tired of allowing circumstances to dictate how I should feel.  Instead, I worked through my day with a smile, keeping to myself as usual and ended the day talking about my trip to Barbados and laughing up a storm with a dear friend and co-worker.

As I was leaving work, instead of going West on I-26, I decided I would go East and head downtown for dinner.  I've read good reviews of a place called Cane Rhum Bar and it truly lived up to those reviews!  First, I had to parallel park and I got in, in one shot!!  Haha, that's huge for me since I never have to parallel park.  Once inside, I decided to sit at the bar.  If you know me, you would know, this is totally outside of my norm, but a friend recently told me, if you want to meet new people, you've got to step outside of your comfort zone and try new things.  And today, I did just that.  

The bartenders were extremely friendly and very welcoming since it was my first time.  I ordered the Rum Punch and Beef Empanadas which were spicy, but delicious.  It reminded me of the Bajan food I ate just a few weeks ago.  The owner is Bajan which is what inspired this Rum Bar and of course what caught my attention to visit.

The vibe, music and overall atmosphere was everything I needed tonight.  I'm so glad I made the choice not only to be happy enjoying my own company, but to step out of my comfort zone as well.  After a few minutes, a gentleman by the name of Derrick sat next to me.  He was friendly and he knew one of the bartenders, Amita.  We talked for a good while about the bar and other places in town.  I learned a lot in such a short period of time about other establishments to visit.  The conversation got so interesting, another bartender came over and poured us all some shots and I believe he called it the "pink velvet."  Needless to say, I took a sip, but wouldn't dare finish it.  Although it was tasty, it was also fire down my throat!  All the guys enjoyed their shot, but I just watched, smiled and enjoyed the moment.  

I also met a couple from Ohio who visits the Charleston area often.  They're considering retiring here and said they love to visit the Cane Rhum Bar when in town.  Her drink for the evening was the Pain Killer, which looked delicious.  Next time I go, that will be the drink I order!  That conversation was interesting and jumped all over the place.  I ended up sharing photos of my grand babies and she turned out to be a twin herself! It was so nice meeting new friendly faces and talking about such random things.  I actually felt like a tourist in my own city for 90 minutes; that's how much time I had on my meter!  Once time was up, the bartenders all said goodnight and Amita, told me where to be Sunday evening.  I hope to check that place out and see what it's all about.  With all of that said, I'm choosing to simply live a life worth living!  

My message to you...step outside of your comfort zone and don't be afraid to try new things and meet new people.  I've spent too many days and nights upset, scared, and doubtful, but I'm making a conscious decision to be happy regardless of what's going on around me.  Life is too short and I don't want any regrets.  So, live and find your happy place...you never know who you'll meet or what you'll learn in the process.

#jqblogs