Subscriber Content I just got off the phone with my brother, who turns 28 today. Happy birthday, bro! We shared maybe two sentences on this subject. “Wow, dude. You’re old! Ain’t life short?” “Don’t fuckin’ talk about it.” We changed the subject to more happy topics: travel, hanging out, and his plans for the evening.Continue reading "Celebrating Life: A Thoughtful Birthday Perspective"
A New Nick in Town
The days are already crisp. I’m talking sub-50° mornings. I walk into the classroom and it feels good! But I run warm as a person. Most of my students, I imagine, are a bit chilly, especially during the first period of the day. It warms up though as the day progresses. But I really likeContinue reading "A New Nick in Town"
Nick or Mr. B?
I’m having a tough time writing something right now. Last week was five days of orientation at CVA. And coming from a break in the school atmosphere, I felt my head expand with info. I’ve exhausted myself after each day and Friday was a blessing when that was all over. I met some folks atContinue reading "Nick or Mr. B?"
Moving in at CVA
I'm all moved into my new apartment at Carrabassett Valley Academy. I wasn't 100% excited about living in the dorm building with students, but I'm growing comfortable with that concept. I prefer privacy and a clear conclusion of my duties once the workday is over. I'm not sure how some of my duties will lookContinue reading "Moving in at CVA"
How to Spend a Birthday in Portland
Portland can be pretty busy in the summer with tourists, so we didn't visit as many shops. But it's also one of the nicest times to visit. The pleasant weather allows for enjoyable outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring the beautiful parks, or taking a scenic bike ride along the river. InContinue reading "How to Spend a Birthday in Portland"
Narramissic Farm Civil War Weekend
I found the best spot to sleep in all of my eleven years as a reenactor. The spot itself was solid! It was nestled between a few trees on a small rise, providing an optimal slope for sleeping. I carefully tied one side of the tent to the sturdy trees, while the other side wasContinue reading "Narramissic Farm Civil War Weekend"
Cursory Glance: The Diner – Nonfiction
His arms were covered in veins of World War One trenches. The contours stuck out like a frame captured by a British spotter, showing the primary trench, maintenance trenches, and all the supporting features. His skin was tanned and almost leathery. Not leathery, but almost. His biceps were small only because he himself was aContinue reading "Cursory Glance: The Diner – Nonfiction"
Botanical Gardens
Subscriber Content Autumn and I visited Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens on a sweltering Tuesday. We were supposed to arrive by 9:30am...we didn't get there until 11:30am. I tell you! Girls take time to get ready. But we also made a delicious breakfast burrito, hash browns included! The drive was pleasant once we finally got onContinue reading "Botanical Gardens"
Walking Home to Georgia II – Fiction
A small cabin slightly off the path caught Jim’s eye. It was the first human structure Jim had seen in a while. Ten foot long and perhaps the same in width. The front door was hardly able to be properly latched if there had been a latch to begin with. Jim stopped on the path.Continue reading "Walking Home to Georgia II – Fiction"
Obituary for a Bat
Jeremy, whom I had given the name, found solace in my air conditioning unit to shield himself from the relentless heat and scorching sun. Intrigued by the dark confines, he seemed to ponder why no other bats sought refuge in this cozy spot. One evening, as I prepared for bed, I activated the unit andContinue reading "Obituary for a Bat"