150 Steps...In the Present Moment

(The following written on the afternoon of September 2, 2011, en route from Providence, RI, to Orlando, FL) I'm less than 2 hours from meeting my daughter. The jet is cruising at 36,000 feet and in a shocking turn of events, I have the entire exit row (aka "first class" on Southwest Airlines) to myself. This has never happened before and while not superstitious, I wonder if it's just another bit of the good fortune that appears to have been flowing through my life over the last two weeks. Well, except for the hurricane and losing power, phone, and Internet for 4 days. Yet even there, we suffered no damage, no flooding, and everyone we know came through it safe and sound. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Eight days ago I accept a great job offer following an almost 3-month interview process. It offers tremendous opportunities and won't require us to relocate. Yes, it means ending my 13-year tenure with my current employer but it's time for a new

Massive hurricane? Check. No light, power, phone, Internet or electricity for four days? Check. Switching to a new job? Check. Adopting a baby in the space of 48 hours? Sure! Why the hell not! Clearly, the Universe has a twisted sense of humor. More details coming soon but the adoption journey is over and the journey as parents and a family begins today. Welcome to the world and to our family, Esme Louisa!