Last night I had a social event. The Chamber of Commerce in the area put on a meet and greet gathering for the local members. Jenny and I showed up a bit after 5 and felt a bit overwhelmed by all the people there. Food, drinks and chatting were all free. We met someone from the Chamber who was kind enough to start introducing us to some of the other members. Our first introduction was to a representative of CellCom a local cell phone company. We pressed hands, explained who we were and what we did. He mentioned a deal only for Chamber members with his company and the lady escorting us went bonkers with telling us what a great deal he offered. I felt like I was in a daze, people swirled around us, the aroma of food from the table beside us and the call of free booze descended over the crowd noise. Then we locked into that lull with our new cellphone friend where neither of us knew what to say. Our escort became distracted by other people and I managed to stick my hand out and say, "Pleased to meet you."

We stood in the middle of the room like a snowflake lost in a blizzard. I suggested we go get something to drink. At least it was something to do. She got a diet coke and I took some spritzer that I knew I wouldn't enjoy drinking, but it made me feel important. We turned back towards the throng of people and had no clue where to start. For the entire night I knew it was my duty to press my hands into these people and tell them about my business, but seeing everyone in their unique clusters of people didn't give me cause to interrupt them. Like lions on the hunt, we waited until one of the herd became separated and pounced upon them.

The night progressed and we met a dozen or more people in various types of businesses. We did manage to get a lead or two for website designs. I told Jen that this was like going to church. The first time or two people eye us as outsiders wondering if we are going to continue to come around. And as we feel more comfortable in these settings I think we will be approached as well as find an ease to greet others we haven't met yet. Patience.

I haven't finished my story yet. Its sitting on my desk, half written in some old notebook. The pattern has become complete with this and I fear it will continue to sit there and then be forgotten.

outta here