Welcome aboard from another NC'er!
Brewing your own doesn't mean you don't get to enjoy other beer anymore, in fact I've found that I am really learning to enjoy other beers a whole bunch more now that I have some knowledge about the process and effort it takes to make a quality brew. Making your own will also open up some good conversation at those local breweries since you'll be able to ask some informed questions about their processes, if you happen to get the chance.
If you have any questions fire away, but take a few minutes to use the search just in case it's a common one that's already been covered recently.
Matt