A Taste of New England on the Horizon
After another early start, I felt the excitement of the day ahead and the allure of New England growing nearer. My first stop was a little town about an hour outside Erie, PA. Driving into the town felt like stepping back in time, with quaint brick buildings, cobblestone streets, and the quiet charm that can only be found in places that have been around for decades. I could tell I was getting closer to New England.
I walked into a local breakfast cafe that immediately felt welcoming. It was a classic spot with an open kitchen, where you order at the counter, and they bring your meal out to you. The cook, a big, friendly guy, was working solo in the back. He brought out my food himself, taking a minute to chat. We talked about the town, and I could tell he knew each of the regulars by heart. It’s the kind of place that gives you a glimpse into the rhythm of the town. I ordered a cup of coffee, and to my surprise, they had flavored options, a Northeast specialty I’d missed. There’s nothing quite like the hint of hazelnut or French vanilla in your coffee – unsweetened but somehow richer and more aromatic.
While I enjoyed my coffee, I opened my laptop and began piecing together another blog post. Documenting the trip every day is a challenge, but it’s become part of my daily rhythm now, a way to reflect on each day’s experiences before they blur together. I don’t want to miss a moment, so I type out the details, recounting everything as if writing it down will make it last just a bit longer.
A Morning in the Park and a Message from Angel City Data
With breakfast wrapped up, I headed to a nearby park. There was a picnic table shaded by trees, and I settled in to catch up on some emails and jump into my AJS networking meeting. The sound of birds and the rustling leaves made for a peaceful workspace, and as I set up my laptop and headphones, I was ready to dive in.
The meeting with AJS was energizing, as always. There’s something about connecting with a community of people who share their goals and insights that brings new energy to my journey. I shared updates on my travels, blog, and job search, and the group was supportive as ever. Their encouragement helps me find that balance between the personal and professional on my blog—one of those small but invaluable insights that keep me motivated.
And then, right in the middle of the meeting, I got the email I’d been hoping for. Angel City Data reached out to schedule a technical interview with some of their directors and designers. I quickly scanned my calendar and replied with my availability for tomorrow. There’s something deeply rewarding about seeing progress in this journey. With each mile, new opportunities open up. I felt ready, confident in what I’ve learned and the experience I bring. For a smaller company, being adaptable and able to wear multiple hats is essential, and I know I can contribute in meaningful ways.
A Scenic Drive through Pennsylvania and New York
After packing up at the park, I hit the road for the next leg of my journey, driving through the rolling hills and valleys of Pennsylvania and New York. Fall was lingering in the air, with leaves beginning to fall, and although the trees weren’t as colorful as earlier in the season, there was a peaceful beauty to the landscape. The overcast sky added a touch of drama, casting soft shadows over the hillsides, and the road wound its way through small towns and open fields, each one a reminder of why I love the Northeast in autumn.
I took my time on this drive, stopping occasionally to take it all in. There’s something almost meditative about driving through these landscapes, the road stretching out ahead, a destination to reach but no rush to get there. It felt like a quiet celebration of this journey, a reminder of all the different places and people that make up the country.
A Family Reunion in Scranton
By the time I reached Scranton, it was late, and I was more than ready for a break. My cousin Anne was waiting for me with her signature warm smile and a hug. There’s nothing quite like family after days on the road. Anne has this calming presence that makes you feel instantly at home, and after days of solo travel, it was a welcome comfort to be around someone who knows you so well.
After a quick freshen-up, we headed out to a local family-owned restaurant. Anne and I chatted over dinner, catching up on everything from family updates to life on the road and job searching. I ordered the haddock, a regional favorite I’d been craving since arriving in the Northeast. The fish was cooked perfectly, reminding me of the flavors and foods unique to this area. The waitress was friendly, with that subtle, no-nonsense sarcasm that’s just so Northeast. It was a wonderful evening of laughter and stories, grounding me after a long day.
A Much-Needed Rest
We headed back to Anne’s place, and I could feel the day’s weight settling in. I was exhausted, but in the best way, knowing I’d had a day full of connection and new experiences. Before crashing, I took a few minutes to review the day’s footage and make a few notes for tomorrow’s blog entry. Then, I collapsed into bed, grateful for a soft pillow and a cozy room. I slept deeply, the kind of sleep that only comes after a full day, and woke up feeling completely recharged and ready for what lay ahead.
2 thoughts on “A Taste of New England on the Horizon”
Once again , your writing , descriptive coupling of words and positivity invited ME in on YOUR journey. You are growing well and your personal insights are creating a delightful pathway for readers to follow. I have driven those familiar roads so often…. I actually, as a mildly sarcastic “salty” New Englander, find myself a bit homesick.
Thank you so much for the kind words of encouragement and sentimentality. Each moment is fleeting and comes and goes in this blur of what life is. When I arrive back home, I feel at home again instantly. It doesn’t take time to adjust and it reminds me that it never went away.