Guest Post ~ Something Brewing at Joe's by SJD Peterson
Something’s Brewing at Joe’s
The promise of a dream job lures Murphy to Tampa, but he arrives to the rude awakening that the offer is on hold. Now he’s got two choices: slink back to Michigan with his tail between his legs or stay and look for work. Things perk up when he goes into a coffee shop and learns the owner is looking for someone to renovate the apartment above it. He happily takes the job, only later realizing he’s met Joe Sterling, Kaffeinate’s proprietor, before… when they hooked up at a club Murphy’s first night in Tampa.
Murphy and Joe are both proud, passionate, and outspoken. Neither is looking for a relationship, though they can’t deny they go together as well as coffee and doughnuts, in spite of their tempers. But that’s before Joe learns Murphy will be working for the corporation he believes is harming local businesses and the environment—and if Murphy will be supporting it, Joe wants nothing to do with him, dooming any possibility of an unexpected happy ending.
Stepping Out of my Comfort Zone
I find myself in much the same situation as Murphy. I’ve made some huge changes in my life and moved to a new city and state. I didn’t come with the promise of a new job (I brought mine with me) but for the adventure. Also like Murphy, I’m in a new town where I know no one.
I’ve spent my entire life doing for others. I’m a mom so of course it was never about me LOL. I’ve raised four wonderful children who are now all on their own and for the first time in my life, completely on my own. No significant other, no runny noses to wipe or teenager to wrangle. No time clock I have to punch. I couldn’t wait for this day. I’ve worked hard for it. I deserve it! It’s all about ME ME ME!
Now what?
I’ll admit, the first six weeks after I moved to a new city, most of the time I sat around and did nothing but mope. I missed my family and friends. I missed being in a relationship. I missed my pets and for the most part was painfully lonely. I had finally gotten exactly what I wanted, the opportunities were endless and there I sat miserable. I was at a crossroads. I could both run back to my comfort zone and only dream of something new and exciting, or I could step out of that comfort zone.
I’m not sure if I’ve made the right decision, but I don’t want to wake up one day and say:
If only….
I should have….
I wish I would have…
I’m not just siting looking out the window anymore. I’m walking for charity every day, trying my hand at herb gardening, enjoying new restaurants, and searching for hidden gems in thrift shops. I’m starting a ceramic class and volunteering at the local animal shelter. I’m talking to strangers, exploring my new city and taking advantage of all it has to offer. I’m attending free concerts and movies in the park, art exhibits, and day trips to surrounding areas.
The possibilities are truly endless and I’m open to try as many as I can
The next step out of my comfort zone will be white water rafting!!
If you suddenly found yourself alone, living in a new city where you had no responsibilities what would you do? Would you take that step or run?
Meet Jo Peterson
SJD Peterson, better known as Jo, hails from Michigan. Not the best place to live for someone who hates the cold and snow. When not reading or writing, Jo can be found close to the heater checking out NHL stats and watching the Red Wings kick a little butt. Can't cook, misses the clothes hamper nine out of ten tries, but is handy with power tools.
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