In my endeavor to start anew in my new home state, I am reflecting on my life for the past 35 years in Wisconsin. I truly believe what the Bible says in Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the heavens”.

Wisconsin was home, where I raised my sons, worked most of my career and settled into early retirement. Settled….that is the key word here. I was comfortable. It was familiar and I could have gone on for many more years in my routine of living. While that is not a bad thing, it appears that life offered me a new start.

Most of you know that I am in Georgia because of my darling granddaughter. I leaped out of my comfort zone and have embraced change with no regret. So as I am now comfortable adjusting to my new start, at age 65, mind you, I am looking more and more outward, ready to continue embracing change and new adventure.

One of the best decisions I made was checking out Atlanta’s local MeetUp online listings. On there I found a group of like-minded individuals who love to take day trips. They are called “The Secret Get Out of Atlanta Travel Club”.   I had to go to one of their monthly dinner meetings before I could take my official first day trip. And I have to say, this group has some of the nicest, fun loving people you want to meet. They were warm and inviting and very glad to welcome me in. That first dinner meeting had 120 people! We met at Rodney’s Jamaican Soul Food Restaurant and had a delicious meal and great conversations in mingling after dinner.

This past Saturday, I had my first outing. We met in Dunwoody at the MARTA parking structure, where 45 of us carpooled to Greenville South Carolina for their annual Fall Festival. Greenville was only 2 hours away and the ride was fun in getting to know my car mates and finding commonalities and shared interests.

Upon arriving, we explored the city, which was lined with food tents and music stages for what seemed like well over a 10+ block area. Throughout the afternoon, we ate and meandered throughout the music stages taking in good food and good sounds. It was a beautiful day and absolutely wonderful weather.

After spending the entire day there, we made it back to Atlanta after midnight and I made the 25 minute drive home from the MARTA with my handy GPS. I have to say, I am so proud of myself and my comfort in tackling the unknown and stepping out of my box.

I look forward to our dinner tomorrow at Desta Ethiopian Kitchen, which is a bit closer to home, and trying some new foods with new friends.

What are you thinking about doing lately that you have said, “Maybe one day?” I would encourage you to step up and step out and do something new and something fun. Life is short. We don’t know what tomorrow will bring. But if we just say “yes” instead of “Well, I don’t know…” you will never know. Believe that one of the best ways to embrace life is to step out of your comfort zone!