Post #243631 by Humuhumu on Tue, Jul 18, 2006 12:28 PM

Yes, I agree with Jungle Trader! Don't be shy, go around introducing yourselves to folks. We'll have nametags available, too -- wearing a nametag with your Tiki Central name on it will be a great ice breaker for you. I'll be wearing one, too!

I've told this story before, so my apologies if you've already heard it:

In early 2003, I flew down all by my lonesome from Seattle to attend the Tiki Crawl. The first meeting place was Martiki's home bar at the time, the Foggy Grotto. I didn't know anybody who was going to be at the crawl, and I knew they all knew each other -- I was sure I was going to feel like an outsider. I felt like I was crashing a party I wasn't supposed to be at. I was so shy and nervous, I sat in the park across the street from Martiki's place for a looooong time, trying to build up the courage to ring the buzzer. I sincerely almost turned around and left without going in, despite it being the whole point of my trip.

Well, that would have been silly.

I rang the buzzer, went inside, and had the time of my life. That night, I met so many people who have become my great friends -- Martiki, Boo Loo, thejab, Mr. Smiley, Tiki Mama, Melintur, Tiki Vixen, mig, Floratina, Sugar Caddy Daddy, Polynesian Pop, and so many more. Even more importantly, I learned that anywhere I go, I'm going to meet new tiki people who are warm, welcoming and wonderful.

So, don't be shy, dangit! Wear your nametag, say hello, and don't be afraid. Yes, we're all pretty tight with each other, but we're always adding to our wonderful circle of friends, and you'll be warmly welcomed into conversations.