Long Over-due update

"We live in a wonderful world that is full of beauty, charm and adventure. There is no end to the adventures we can have if only we seek them with our eyes open." ~ Jawaharial Nehru

Travel continues to hold a special place in my heart. While I have not had the opportunity to travel the globe lately, I have gotten to explore a handful of places in the eastern part of my home country. Gettysburg, Orlando, Detroit, Washington DC (and surrounding areas) have provided plenty of opportunities for adventure.

My first trip to Gettysburg, PA did not disappoint. It is less than 3 hours away from my home, but I had never gone to the historic place until April of this year to visit a friend. It is absolutely a location I intend to revisit.

I rented my first car. It turned out to be very nice and I briefly considered purchasing one... until I met the Hyundai Veloster, of course. The rental car was definitely not bad.

The GPS, however, was far less than helpful. The dead-end you see here was the result of a "Turn Left" and go straight. Experiences such as this have lead me to the conclusion that one should probably have a backup set of directions.

The business trip to Detroit in June was actually pretty impressive. The whole office was sent up north to work at a 3-day hiring event in COBO hall. Our mission: to assist veterans and service members with creating or editing a workable federal resume, preparing them for interviews, etc.

Our first night in Detroit offered a pleasant surprise. Boyz II Men had a concert along the river right by our hotel. For a mere $5, I had the pleasure of hearing their beautiful voices live and in concert. :)

There was also an incredible restaurant that had some of the best sushi I've ever eaten. An interesting lobster bisque soup and delectable dessert display were fantastic as well. If you're ever in Detroit, stop in at Joe Muer Seafood and order the Detroit Roll. Good times for sure.

There was even a firework display in front of the hotel. Boats were lined up along the river between the USA and Canada and served as the setting for one of the most stunning displays of fireworkery that I have witnessed in a very long time.

Orlando with my sister was truly delightful. We spent 3 beautiful, sunny July days wandering through the offerings of Universal Studios. Staying at the Hard Rock hotel proved to be an excellent idea as we did not have to worry about driving, parking or getting lost. The hotel was a short walk, boat ride or bicycle-towed wagon ride from the main gates of Universal Studios and the Islands of Adventure and everything was on the same resort. We had purchased an excellent package that covered the room, breakfast at The Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and hopper passes for the three day stay. We didn't even need a car as there were fabulous restaurants within walking distance. We ended the week in a beautiful condo along the gulf of Mexico with the rest of our family.