As I start writing, I am experiencing deja vu because I’m sure I have covered this topic before. 😉 My default answer to unfamiliar things tends to be no, but I have been making a sincere effort to say yes more often and to be open to new experiences and opportunities.
My comfort zone is pretty small. For almost the last year I have essentially been in a small circle filled with immediate family members, coworkers and a few friends. I ventured out to take classes and to participate in activities with those in my circle. I didn’t let anyone new in that little circle. Doing so meant taking a chance and leaving myself vulnerable. I wasn’t willing to take that risk.
Dipping my toe into the online dating pool only convinced me more that there were plenty of nice gentlemen out there, but none that ignited any kind of spark in me. I wanted someone that made my heart go pitter pat and if I couldn’t find that, I didn’t plan to settle.
One month ago today I was looking forward to my two girls arrival and had one weekend left before they arrived. I don’t know what it was that made me reactivate my profile on match.com, but whether a push from beyond (thanks Mom) or divine intervention (thank you God), I am so glad I did.
A month ago I took a chance and said yes to a first date That first date led to a second date that evening followed by a third date the following day. Three days later it was date number four and then the fifth date two days after that. Date six, a Sunday breakfast date was followed that evening by our seventh date which would turn out to be quite memorable 😉.
We met and walked around the park, went to an ice cream shop and played a few old arcade games in a local arcade. We held hands while walking around and I felt the pitter pat of my heart❤. When we walked back to our respective vehicles and said goodnight, we shared our first kiss. It was incredibly sweet and it made me want more. ❤
When he sent me flowers on our birthday and then came over to meet my family and to celebrate with me, I knew he was someone very special and someone that I want in my life.
Since then I have said yes to meeting his wonderful kiddos and his brother and sister in law (very nice, fun people) and in return have introduced him to all my kiddos and most of my family. I said yes to Motocross racing, which made my heart race in a very non-romantic way, but I still enjoyed being there with him. He also invited Mara and Marta along and they had an absolute blast! He invited me to come shooting this weekend. That would have been a hard NO in the past, but I find that I am willing to expand my comfort zone and try new things with him.
He brought two of his three kiddos over to celebrate Marta’s 17th birthday last night. His kids are delightful and it is apparent how much they love their dad. I look forward to spending more time with them too.
The lesson that I have learned from all of this is that while initially it may be hard to take that first step outside my comfort zone and to say yes to new opportunities, the reward is so worth the risk.
picturingpositive 
Great story. While we are right to be cautious, often saying yes can help us get out of our own way. Glad yeses are working out. Stay well Beth. Allan
Thank you Allan! I definitely err on the side of caution most times. 😉. I had to tell myself “Nothing ventured, nothing gained” In this case, saying yes was a very good thing! 😊 Have a wonderful day, Allan!
So glad that you are finding happiness in your new relationship.
Thank you so much Laura Kate! 😊 I think sometimes the best things happen when we least expect them 😊 Thanks for taking the time to leave such a kind comment. I hope you have a wonderful day 😊
❤️❤️you deserve all the wonderful things in life my beautiful friend.
As do you, Candace ❤ Thank you for always being a ray of sunshine 🙂
How sweet life can be!
Most definitely!! 🙂 Thanks so much for taking the time to leave such a nice comment! 🙂
I love love your post. I am so glad you connected with a jewel, as I see that beautiful smile showing through those once sad eyes. He is one lucky man
Thank you SO very much!! ❤ He is certainly a treasure and I am very happy to have found him ❤ Thank you so much for the very sweet comment!! ❤
This makes me smile
So happy for you.
Thank you so much❤ It was very unexpected, but I think sometimes the best things in life are. 😊
I have the BIGGEST SMILE on my face Beth!! I am SO HAPPY for you!!! 🥰
Thank you so much Janie😊 He is a keeper, for sure. We have spent SO much time together, it is crazy, but I never get tired of being with him. I find myself googling “How do I know it’s love?” and am able to say yes to most of the signs. (Yes, I am a strange duck😉) We haven’t said it yet, but I’m definitely on the edge of that cliff and ready to leap😉💕😉
Beth this is so exciting! Congrats! He is sure a lucky fellow and vice versa! I am enjoying watching you bloom and flourish with so much love and happiness!! May it continue to grow! I’m thrilled for you! 🥰❤️🌸
Thank you so much Janie🥰 We are having a great time together. He is so much fun and time just flies when we are together. I have zero anxiety when I am with him and I feel like I am OK just being me. Such a refreshing change from my last relationship. I didn’t even know how bad that was until I am now seeing what a healthy relationship is like. ❤😊❤ I am so grateful for your support and encouragement ❤
Are your kids willing to expand their comfort zone with you during this bonding time?
They are very brave girls and have been open to any opportunity that presents itself! 😊 In fact they tried out for the cheerleading squad and went to several weeks of practice before actually trying out. Their decision to say yes to that paid off because they both made the squad!! 🎉😊🎉