I used to be the girl who preferred the shadows. I drew comfort from the anonymity, from the lack of attention, from the invisibility cloak I chose to wear around my shoulders. I shied away from conversations, preferring to observe rather than participate. While I often wished I could be the boisterous and reactive one in the room, it was enough for me to simply watch them. As an observer in the shadows, I learned of the nature of those around me. I pinpointed those who filled the lulls in conversation, afraid of the silence, afraid to be left with the sound of their thoughts. I identified with those who were quiet just as myself, knowing their minds were buzzing with unsaid thoughts and opinions.

Then one day I stepped out into the light.

It is hard to say when or why it happened. I certainly did not anticipate it coming. While debating dinner plans with friends, I noticed a quiet girl nearby listening, wearing the cloak of shadows I knew so well. I had seen her before, here and there, as we went about our days. This time, however, I felt an unfamiliar pull to talk to her, to invite her to join our dinner plans. And so I did. And so did she. I may never be the boisterous one in the room, but I am no longer afraid to expand my comfort zone to include new people and situations.

While I still retreat to the shadows now and then, I find the light brings a certain warmth.

In some ways, this cocktail reminds me of an unnoticed person, hiding in the shadows. It is not flashy or showy. It does not sparkle in the light like a glass of white wine or feature hundreds of fizzing bubbles like a flute of champagne. It does not have layers like a rainbow or feature bright, bold colors. It is a simple drink. A subtle drink. Pale yellow and opaque, it may not seem like much to the unaided eye.

To give it a hard look, to take a sip, opens your eyes to something you may not have considered before. You may even find it beautiful.

Sparkling Pineapple Rum Cocktail is a balanced, fizzy cocktail. Pineapple juice and ginger ale come together, effortlessly mixing together the sweetness of the soda and the tartness of the juice. With a shot (or two) of dark rum thrown in the mix, the cocktail can hold its ground. When I had my first sip, I was pleasantly surprised. The bright flavor drew me in and it truly felt like something special.

One Year Ago: Chocolate Salted Almond Ice Cream
Two Years Ago: Cornmeal Parmesan & Poppy Seed Crackers and Pina Colada Cupcakes

Sparkling Pineapple Rum Cocktail

Yields 1 serving

1/4 cup (60 ml) dark rum
1/2 cup (120 ml) pineapple juice
1/2 cup (120 ml) ginger ale
Ice, optional
Pineapple slice, garnish

In a large glass, stir together the rum, pineapple juice, and ginger ale. Garnish with ice or a pineapple slice, if desired.