"Miles with Micro"
Welcome to Miles with Micro! I’m beyond excited to have you join me on this adventure across the U.S., where my IRL self, Jared, and my online persona, Micro, come together to explore, learn, and grow. This journey is about connecting with friends, new faces, and communities, all while bridging the gap between the creative technologist behind the screen and the gamer in the Minecraft world. Whether you know me as Micro or Jared, you’ll get to see both sides in action as we dive into new experiences.
From bustling cities to remote towns, from casual meetups to creative projects, this trip is about discovery—of people, places, perspectives, and connections. Let’s set off together, exploring all the things that make life (and the online world) exciting. Ready for the ride? Let’s make some memories, and don’t forget to check back for stories, photos, and more along the way!
A Love Letter to Maine: Finding My Place in a New Life
Moving to Maine has been a journey of self-discovery, filled with moments of loneliness, resilience, and unexpected joy. In this deeply personal reflection, I explore the emotional weight of starting over—letting go of the past, embracing new friendships, and finding love in all its forms. From quiet mornings in Portland to laughter-filled nights at Maine Street, this story is about the courage to rebuild, the ache of transition, and the beauty of uncertainty. Whether you’re navigating change or searching for belonging, this is a letter to anyone learning to trust the road ahead.
Back in the Flow: Life, Work, and New Beginnings in Maine
Returning to Maine after years away is more than just a homecoming—it’s a rediscovery of self, community, and purpose. This journey isn’t just about settling into a new space, but about reconnecting with old friends, forging new bonds, and building a life that blends past experiences with future ambitions. It’s about finding comfort in routine while embracing the unknown, balancing nostalgia with fresh perspectives, and stepping fully into a chapter shaped by growth, resilience, and belonging. From deepening friendships to exploring Maine through an adult lens, this story reflects on what it means to return, redefine, and rebuild a sense of home.
What Could Have Been: Reflections on Growth, Loss, and New Beginnings
Leaving behind the sunny shores of San Diego for the unknown opportunities of Maine, this journey is a deeply reflective exploration of life’s crossroads, the courage to embrace change, and the connections that ground us. It’s about grappling with the weight of “what could have been,” the memories of a life well-lived, and the hope of a new beginning. Through the lens of a cherished friendship, the comfort of a beloved pet, and the resilience needed to navigate life’s transitions, this story delves into the beauty of stepping into uncertainty with purpose and trust. It reminds us that home is not just a place—it’s the people, memories, and courage we carry forward as we build the next chapter of our lives.
The Art of Building Bridges With Technology and Imagination
Building bridges between ideas, people, and technology has the power to create meaningful and lasting change. From revolutionizing workflows at Nickelodeon to empowering artists with intellectual disabilities through the Art Life program and fostering a vibrant, inclusive community in Wildercraft, these stories showcase how creativity, collaboration, and purpose can transform challenges into opportunities. By connecting vision with action and fostering empathy and teamwork, we can inspire growth and innovation. What bridges are you building, and how are they shaping the world around you?
The Power of Vulnerability: It’s Okay to Not Be Okay
This article explores the reality of navigating life’s highs and lows, particularly during overwhelming transitions like moving and starting a new chapter. It reflects on the emotional challenges of exhaustion, uncertainty, and mental overload while embracing the idea that not being okay is a natural part of the process. Through personal experiences, it highlights the importance of slowing down, finding small moments of clarity, and leaning on others for support. Ultimately, it’s a reminder that feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean failure—it means you’re human, and growth often comes through the messiest moments.
The Unexpected Ways Chaos Can Spark Creativity
In this article, I reflect on finding creativity during one of the busiest seasons of my life—packing for a cross-country move, starting a new role with Angel City Data, and managing Wildercraft. Through chaos and overwhelm, I’ve discovered unexpected moments of inspiration, whether through problem-solving in my new job, conversations with friends, or seemingly mundane tasks like packing and planning. Embracing imperfection, capturing creative ideas in real time, and thriving in fast-paced environments have taught me that chaos can be a powerful catalyst for creativity. This journey highlights the importance of staying true to what matters and finding meaning, even in the busiest times.