It's an interesting feeling, to begin a new chapter in one's life.

There are defining moments in life, generally caused by drastic changes in situation. Marriage, a new birth, all of that - big, drastic, defining changes in life.

I quit my job at Ripple Bagel and Deli. Big, drastic, defining change in my life.

I quit, not because I didn't enjoy my job (I really did), but because I got a "real" job, whatever that means. A job with a salary. A job with benefits. A job where I have to wear office attire. A job with a desk and a computer. A job that uses my degree.

In my last article, I complained about not finding any real jobs, that there weren't any in this city for me. Well. I found one, sent my resumé, got the first interview, aced the second interview, and was offered the position.

And now? I find myself almost disappointed at having found this real job.

Y'see - I like the bagel deli. I liked working there. And I've been there for nearly three years. Ken and Susan Richman, the owners, have become like surrogate parents while I've been here in Indianapolis, giving me advice on where to get my brakes fixed or taking photos at my band's first show. Brian Hacker, the other owner, seemed like the older brother I'd been missing out on. I feel as if I'm leaving my second family to do something I'm not even sure I'll like.

So this is a closing chapter in the life of Lisa Marie Battiston. The end of her time as a Bagel Broad. The end of being recognized at bars for making a mean Riviera Reuben or an excellent Mr. Turkey. It's sad. I'm sad. And maybe a little bit scared.

Scared because, as they say, with every ending is a new beginning. And am I ready for this? At 22, am I ready for a "real" job? Will I fit in at the office? Will they like me? Will I do my job well? Will I be what they expected when they hired me?

I have no idea. Scares the bejeezus outta me.

So I leave a job for what might potentially turn into a career, assuming I don't randomly get offered some amazing book deal (completely fathomable plan B, right?) or the band doesn't get propelled into global rockstardom (completely fathomable Plan C - hey! Don't crush my dreams). Frightening and new and different and exciting.

I will miss Ripple Bagel and Deli, miss my second family there, the regular customers, the good food, homemade soups, all of it. I won't be able to work the annual Pickle Eating Contest (which benefits the Make-A-Wish Foundation). But I start a new chapter in my life, bravely and naively and hopefully, in a way most kids my age do.

So wish me luck. And eat at the Bagel Deli. Tip 'em well - they all deserve it.