The Farewell
Well it has been a bittersweet couple of months that included many gatherings, one on one chats over coffee or beer, and even a surprise Tycho show in Santa Barbara (thanks Kevin!), all to say "goodbye for now". We even had a Big White House Reunion, a party with most of the different guys I lived with throughout 6.5 years at the same iconic house in Ventura. And for those of you who have wondered about it, here is a way-too-thorough timeline of who I lived with and when they were at the house. All of the fond farewells ended with one of the best ways to end a chapter of my life; having the privilege of standing next to my best friend as his best man while he married the love of his life. Jordan and Sydney Young are a force to be reckoned with. They both come from families who love the world unconditionally and they are carrying on that legacy together. So proud of them, and so incredibly happy for them both!
Of course with all of these joyful moments, came the bittersweet day of leaving home for the first time in 32 years. My brother James was gracious enough to join me on the brutal 16+ hour drive to Colorado. We had a blast being delirious together and helping move in the Hall's and myself into the new home. It even started snowing as James got into the shuttle to head back home to California. Such a sweet time with my brother and a very strange feeling to see him leave and realize I'm far from family for the first time. As of now I've been in Colorado Springs for five weeks. Its been a strange and slow transition, but I have a peace in my heart about this decision that continues to confirm this major shift in gears. The Hall family and I are mostly settled in and even had the blessing of some snowfall to ease us in to our new climate and elevation. This will for sure be challenging at times, but there's a warmth and comfort in the house that makes it feel like its already been home for much longer than just a month. Even with the good company, the holidays will have a hint of loneliness as I'm far from family and friends, but I know its only this year that will feel that way.
Just as I started my new position at Apple here in the Springs, I began to watch as my beautiful hometown of Ventura went from threatened by wildfires, to being in the thick of it. I sat in disbelief as I watched the news and social media posts reveal just how effected Ventura County was/is. Even as I type this the Thomas Fire rages on and threatens many neighboring communities and keeps a thick layer of smoke lingering along the coast. Several friends and countless other residents have now lost their homes and I feel the sickening urge to help while I sit 1000 miles away. What has eased that feeling is seeing the many stories of hundreds, if not thousands, of Ventura County residents jumping into action to assist those displaced, evacuated, or now literally homeless. I feel a great deal of pride watching from far away. I can't wait to visit home again to experience the change in "energy" that the city is operating in after uniting through such a strange, unexpected, and rough time.
As for me, I shall carry on growing into my new role with Apple, focusing on fitness and financial stability, and I'll continue to explore this beautiful place I now call home.
Missing my Tuesday Night Dinner crew, my family, friends, and Ventura community so much!