Hey! I hope you're having a great week.

A couple of weeks ago, I went to Eatonsville restaurant to hang with Rosetta and 50 other women for her happy hour event. Social events usually give me a lot of anxiety (even family stuff), so I'm learning to put myself out there more to move past those feelings.

I was elated to see my boo, Lisa! She's one of the most positive and beautiful women I know. I can't wait to do more vegan cooking (and wine drinking) with her. We did videos together here and here.

I also saw my girl, Ronnet, who inspired my in person cooking classes when she emailed and requested it last year. :-)

I knew there would be complimentary food at the event, but I wasn't sure whether or not there would be vegan options.

I arrived about 40 minutes early and went across the street to Busboys & Poets and shared a plate of vegan nachos with Eric.

Black-eyed peas on nachos? Yes! I will have to recreate this one! So delicious :-)

Once at the event, I did spot a fruit and cracker tray. I don't see crackers and fruit as a meal but sometimes that's the only option available. I've been to places where it's much less than that. lol

I had such an amazing time! Rosetta did a speed date type set up, where we discussed our dreams and goals with complete strangers. lol It was sooo out of my comfort zone, but I'm glad I did it because I actually found the editor for my upcoming vegan guide!

Afterwards, I met back up with Eric and we shared a veggie burger and fries for a late night date.

This burger wasn't very good and actually tasted like raisins. Ummm, I like raisins but not in a burger. No thanks!

Anywho, Eric and I laughed a lot, chatted about the event, and even had our own dream session. Good times!

A couple of vegan tips for your next social event:

*Change your mindset-I know we're conditioned to see social events as an opportunity to eat lots of food, but try to see as a way to make genuine connections.

*Eat before and after you attend the event. :-)

The hardest part of being a vegan is usually the planning. Once you have that part down, things usually become a lot easier.

Thanks for reading!