After more than two years apart, the author visits family in Florida, meets a young nephew, reconnects with a lifelong friend, explores nature, and navigates technology challenges. During the trip, they learn they earned an Analyst position after 15 years with their employer. The achievement marks a meaningful professional milestone and a hopeful new chapter.
Private roads and private fencesPrivate tables and special swingsSpecial sitings of special creaturesInterrupting habitats We walk down an unmarked pathDeeper into the brushUnable to see the endFinding evidence of the humans Pushing through the fallen treesThe river is our guideProceed with caution Running low on resourcesWe return to our trailheadClosely monitored by the local butterfliesDeer cross our path A reroute is required to reuniteThe detour causing challenges with directionsBirds greet us as we emergeAccepted as one of their own
A short hike that turned into quite the adventure. Bonus points to anyone that gets the reference in the title. :)
Background: When I was in elementary school, I read all the time. It was encouraged at school and at home. We had dedicated time to go to the school library and find a new book. In the early years, I was all about the non-fiction. The more science and math I could get my hands on, the better. I later came to enjoy some novels and other parts of the fiction world. Both my parents were (and still are) avid readers. My mom would always have her hot tea and book ready to go in the evening. My dad would…
Driving a car has been a cultural phenomenon in this country for many years. The history is long and usually disturbing; however, my experience has been overall positive. I purchased a new car after my previous car was flooded in one of those famous Florida hurricanes. That car barely made it to 10,000 miles, and so this is a big accomplishment. My current vehicle is running strong, brought me to Illinois, and used to make my weekly commute to the big corporate building for work. There is nothing like blaring your music and cruising down the interstate going “65 mph”…
A glimpse of a possible near future. :)