SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY

I call my son Andy, “Tin Man” because he’s such a sentimental little guy. I wonder where he gets it from? I spent this weekend moving out of Plantation. I don’t know why I get so nostalgic when I move. I guess because I know I’m putting another chapter of my life behind me. This was a particularly tough chapter. These two years have arguably been the toughest two years of my life. There were times I questioned the value of life. Was it even worth living? I got through divorce, a new job, depression, missing my son, and finding then losing the woman I thought I was going to spend the rest of my life with. I look back and marvel that I got through it. My family, my friends, my doctors, and even you bloggers out there helped me. All the while I was living in Plantation.

So maybe that’s why I felt a bit of sadness making my last drive around the neighborhood. I hugged and said goodbye to April at Winn-Dixie and Evyan at Starbucks. I gave my neighbors a homemade roof tile Hurricane Wilma souvenir before locking my apartment door for the last time. I’ve heard the expression, “Don’t look back,” but I’ve never applied it to me. I always take that last look back. I think it’s because I know I might be back some day. I know I’ll be back. There are golf courses to play and hockey games to attend. So yes, I peeked behind me as I drove away today. I can’t help it.
Tonight marks the beginning of a new chapter. My first night in my new apartment in Coconut Grove. I even plan to utilize the bedroom. No more sleeping on the couch. I think I've finally graduated after two years. It all feels a little special. There’s so much to look forward to. So much anticipation. It’s a good feeling. Sentimental, but good.