So I took a hiatus in writing, I got busy with lots of life stuff. Starting with the retirement party that went off quite well, we had over 50 friends and co-workers there.  The party marked the official end to my USDA career,

I went to my sister’s beach place for a long weekend to celebrate her daughter’s bachelorette weekend.  We had perfect beach weather and a fabulous weekend celebrating.  I don’t plan to share any photos or stories from that though.  I think those are best left for others to share. I do think my niece and her friends are lovely, smart, and classy young women.  I especially enjoyed the beach and the weather.  Bring on spring!

I do want to mention the restaurants where we dined.  We had lunch at The Gulf at Perdido Pass. The restaurant is casual with all outside dining and the above view was from the restaurant.  I had the grouper sandwich and it was quite tasty!  Others in the party tried the hamburgers.

We dined at Cobalt which has lovely sunset views and great food.  I had grouper again, paneed grouper this time and it was fabulous.

I find myself in a work hiatus.  A strange feeling for sure. I observe others working, reading emails, taking phone calls, dealing with issues.  Some of the habits I had like 2 cellphones and 2 iPads, one for work and one for personal are over.  I used to check my work emails first thing in the am and last thing at night and many times in between.  Now I look at emails and it is mostly spam.  I am thinking about work again, just not going to rush it.  I have started the process to volunteer at the hospital.  And found a website Encore -Second acts for the greater good that provides advice on how to find your second career based on the desire to give back.  I really like the idea.  I guess I need to just relax and enjoy this hiatus.