Hello! *waves* Sorry for the late reply: I just finished a move and haven't really had time for anything else in the last few weeks.
I feel you for how can be intimidating interacting with new pwople, I'm usually just lurk myself, but I'm trying to be more active, and it can be quite rewarding as you meet some really amazing and diverse people. I've discovered the snowflake challeng is a great opportunity in that sense, I really need to catch up!