Tuesday, May 30, 2023

30 May 2023 (8 years, 5 months, 11 day after The Day)

 So, I have been absent for about 18 months.  I was working on finishing my degree and I did.  I graduated and have turned the page on that time in my life.  I have to say that anyone who is getting a graduate degree as an adult should be commended.  What a sacrifice!  It was a sacrifice by me, Samantha, my kids, my coworkers, my family, everyone.  


I traveled to West Lafayette, IN and was able to visit with some classmates.  I was able to walk across the stage and it was a tremendous feeling to complete the degree.  I averaged between 70 and 90 hours a week and that was every week except the weeks between modules.  I have just been exhausted.  After the graduation I was awoken to the fact that I had been living under a rock for a while.  Samantha came into the room one day and asked what I was doing that evening.  I said "Nothing.  Absolutely nothing."  It was a good feeling.  I feel the sacrifice my family made has been huge.  

So - I officially have my Masters of Science from Purdue University in Business Analytics.  I have learned a ton.  I spoke at the virtual commencement and had an interview for some media engagements I am going to be involved in.  Overall it is a crazy time.

I realized the last time I posted was in December.  This is how detached from reality I have been.  

Samantha and I picked up some bicycles and are trying to start a new habit of riding on a regular basis.  I rode a ton as a kid and getting back into that has been good.

I have so much to say but I am at a loss since I haven't written in so long.  

Emma (Jean) returned home from serving as a missionary in Bakersfield, CA in March.  My oldest stepdaughter (Emma (Jane)) gave birth to her second child.  I LOVE being a grandpa.  It is the absolute best.  It is better than any degree, any recognition, anything.  I love this little girl cooing at me in FaceTime.  

I feel closer to my kids and that is an awesome feeling.  I love all of them. I don't see Emma (Jane) that often unless she drives in or Alex unless he joins for dinner on Sundays but I sure love them all and am so grateful for them in my life.

So - a new chapter begins.

#Purdue
#Krannert
#BusinessAnalytics