Reservation for One

Hello all, and welcome to my serving section.

Today, I’ve decided to provide you with the "Happy Hour Menu”. This short, but sweet menu is intended to give you pointers on how to remain happy while you wait. But, before I pass out the goods, it is important for me to tell you that in order for this customized menu to reach your tables today, I’ve had to indulge in every single one of these dishes myself...So you are not actually alone in this.

Ok let's see what's been prepared!

First Happy Hour Special: Treat your self.

Ladies and gents it’s so simple, take your self out!

Who said that in order to enjoy life, it has to be at (literally) someone else's expense. Well, Im here to tell you, it doesn’t. By treating yourself, you will learn so much about the things that truly make you happy, and not to mention you’re self-love and self-esteem will strengthen in return.

Too many times, being single is equated with being lonely. Although this maybe true for some, it does not have to be your truth. In fact, being purposefully single is a wonderful adventure, not a lonely one! So what is being purposefully single, you ask?

In my world it's all about taking the time to develop yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and staying clear of the thinking that I MUST have someone to be happy, because its simply, NOT TRUE. For me, I had to let go of the time and time again excuse of, "but I don't have anyone to go with" when wanting to have a good time. Eventually I have come to realize that I had just what I needed all along, and that was myself. When I truly understood this, it was then that I learned that there is nothing like the comfort of your own company. Additionally, I also learned that there is absolutely nothing wrong with dating yourself! And now, I do it ALL the time. So If you find yourself nibbling in this same situation, there is no need to be ashamed. Be self-acclaimed.

Here is a quick list of some of my favorite things to do alone:

• Dine (of course)

• Shop

• Museums

• Movies

• Read

• Write

• Hike/bike

• Travel

• and the list goes on...

If you find yourself in a place of perceived loneliness, get rid of thought of being alone, and start to be purposefully single. I promise, it will elevate your sense of being! And attractive others too ;)

Second Happy Hour Special: Exercise.

Ok so here is where the nurse in me comes out. If you don’t already know, the act of exercise literally up lifts one’s mood due to the release of “happy" hormones known as endorphins.

So with this being said, get up and get active !!

There are so many different ways to become and maintain an active lifestyle. You could join a gym, practice yoga (perfect self-love strengthening activity), or take the free route and run/walk/hike outdoors. As for me, I love to do it all, but I have to admit I’m just in the beginning stages of yoga...so here again we are in this together!

Also remember, not only is exercise good for the body, but it’s also good for the soul. Physical activity, forces you to push yourself, confront your pain...but in the end it proves to be worth the gain.

Ok now it's one thing to exercise, but this should always be coupled with healthy eating. What you put in is what you put out, and because this is Dri's Deep Dish, I couldn't leave you with out some carry out so here is a link for meal prep for beginners: Successful meal prepping.

Happy exercising and eating !

Third Happy Hour Special: Travel.

Now this is the Chef’s favorite! I absolutely LOVE to travel.

Traveling keeps life in perspective for me. It not only keeps me moving, but also grounded by reminding me that I do not exist alone in this world, and that the basics of life (happiness, peace, and security) are quite the same all across the globe, with love as it's centerpiece.

There is a quote that I really love and it reads, "The one who wonders, is not always lost". The reason why I am so fond of these words, is the double meaning it portrays. Sometimes, we don't always understand why we are where we are in life, and sometimes we may not like our present location, but there is peace in knowing that we have to power to direct our final destination.

Because traveling is such a joy of mine, I have decided to create an entire dining experience, titled “A Taste of Diversity" exclusively about my travels. My hope is to highlight all the benefits of traveling, and how these experiences have influenced, and shaped my love for life! So please, leave room for these servings to follow :)

Fourth on the Happy Hour Special: Give back.

One of the best things you can do for yourself, is to do for others. With this being said, I strongly encourage you to get involved in a community service project. People need you.

If you are not quite sure in what capacity you can help your community, I promise you that there are an abundance of projects in your area waiting for volunteers; it's really just a matter of a 0.085873 second google search LOL, but seriously. I know for some, the thought of community service may be burdensome, but let me tell you I have been involved in some sort of community service project for the past ten years, and I have never regretted ,not one of those hours giving back. In fact, it was through these community service experiences that I was made a better person. In my efforts to give, I gained the skill of compassion, the understanding of what it means to live in solidarity, happiness, and most importantly how to love even when you are the most vulnerable. So here again I say, one of the best things you can do for yourself, is to do for others.

Just food for thought !

The Fifth and Final Happy Hour Special: Pray.

Let God guide you through your season of waiting. It may seem long, it may seem hard, but He’s at the head of the table, and knows what is most nourishing for you. In your practice of patience, have daily conversation with God, and trust your process. You are destined for greatness.

So as you can see, this post is as literal as it is analogical. In what ever season of waiting you find your self in, do yourself a favor and take time for yourself, experience a new place, be one with your community, and stay prayed up!

This is how you really make a reservation for one.

Always served with love,

Dri ♥