I met some new neighbors last night.

My community hosts a monthly event at the clubhouse called Thirsty Thursday. The idea is simple: bring your favorite beverage and a snack to share, and enjoy some casual mingling with the neighbors. Though I’ve lived in our neighborhood for over ten years, I’ve never attended.

It’s not that I’m unfriendly or uninterested—I simply hadn’t gone. 

Last night, after dinner with the lovely couple next door, we drove past the gathering on our way home. They’re regular Thirsty Thursday attendees and insisted I come check it out with them. I hesitated, but agreed…