I truly have no idea about the number of people I have met at breweries over the past six years. It has been a wonderful experience that I talk about a lot but have never put pencil to paper. When I get asked why I like to write about breweries, I reply that it is all about meeting people and the experience of that day.

Many people might find it hard to believe that, as a young adult, I was quite an introvert. I struggled to start a conversation with people I didn’t know. Later in life, I discovered that when traveling to breweries, everyone seemed approachable and willing to chat!

It is always amazing to meet new people, especially folks that have traveled a long distance in the search of a good time and craft beer. Within no time, you start talking about the styles of beer you enjoy and why you ended up at a given brewery that day.

I remember on one trip to Bolo Beer Co. in Valentine, Nebraska meeting a couple that loved to ride bicycles and find local breweries. They had traveled from Death Valley, California to ride the Cowboy Trail in Northern Nebraska. It was so much fun getting to hear about their riding adventures as well as the incredible breweries they have been to.

There are people you meet at beer events who are involved in the community to help with great causes. A perfect example was a summer beer festival at Infusion Brewing Co., where I met Mandi, who is involved with ALS in the Heartland. I was excited to learn more about how they served the community. I am proud to say that I have volunteered and supported this great cause for five years.

These are the type of connections that have made a big difference in my life! I might not always remember the person's exact name, but I will remember their story.

If one thing the pandemic taught me was to enjoy the companionship of others. Over the past few months, I have made it a habitat to meet a group of people on Wednesday nights at Bearded Brewers Artisan Ales. We met while enjoying excellent craft beer, but soon we had other things in common. After a few weeks, to my dismay, I was talking with Molly back from my high school days! I would have never believed it, but it is fantastic to reconnect!

Then there are the friends you meet, and you become like family! On the times that you don’t make it for a few weeks, they are wondering if you are still doing ok.

I admit that my Pint Nine Brewing family is pretty special! There are three And(yi)s and a Rose that absolutely makes everyone feel welcome - dogs included and it is not just because of the treats she gives them! There have been so many great memories, and it is all because of owners that love their community and patrons.

Another incredible reconnection was meeting the Buckleys who I used to work with several years ago. It has been so fun to go to breweries with them and hear about their beercations!

One thing that always sticks in my mind is the sign at Pal’s Brewing Company in North Platte. Always remember this - “Come as Strangers, Leave as Pals!” This is so very true.
Cheers!