One of the many things I've enjoyed about being a newcomer to Humboldt and area this year is how frequently I find myself thrown into unfamiliar territory.

While daunting to some, I embrace the unknown. Like Mama told you when she was coaxing you to eat your peas and carrots, "You never know if you'll like it unless you try."

One prime example of getting out of my comfort zone happened yesterday when I drove my former city-girl self out to the town of Bruno in the Bolt vehicle.

Joan Manderscheid is a lovely woman. The town of Bruno is a friendly, welcoming place, and every time I visit I seem to meet good-hearted people like Joan.

To be completely honest, I had never even heard of sledge hockey, prior to this past weekend. With a sledge hockey tournament on my "events to cover" list, Google and I became fast friends once again.

Joan was kind enough to explain the sport further and convinced me to get out there with the kiddies, sit in a "sled on skates", and try my hand at the balancing act that is sledge hockey.

My brief intro to this inclusive and fun sport was great, and, as always, I'm glad I got out there and "tried".

Mom would be proud.