"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!
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.
Wildercraft: Building a World, One Block at a Time
Wildercraft is a one-of-a-kind Minecraft survival server that blends classic gameplay with a vibrant, inclusive community and innovative features like custom tools, a player-driven economy, and unique events. Beyond the game, Wildercraft fosters meaningful connections, bringing players together to collaborate, create, and form lasting friendships. In this article, we explore the heart of Wildercraft, sharing stories of real-life meetups with players and admins, reflecting on the power of online relationships, and highlighting exciting upcoming features like Landmarks. Whether you’re a new or experienced player, Wildercraft offers a place to build, connect, and be part of something truly extraordinary. Visit www.wildercraft.net to join the adventure.
Driving Toward New Horizons: Ideas On The Road To Maine
The open road has a way of sparking creativity and reflection, and this leg of my journey was no exception. As I traveled from New Jersey to Virginia, I found myself immersed in brainstorming ideas for Microweb LLC and envisioning the potential of Maine Tech Coffees—a space where technology, community, and innovation converge. Along the way, I explored how to foster meaningful connections in Maine’s vibrant tech and creative scene, drawing inspiration from my experiences in San Diego. This journey isn’t just about the miles; it’s about building a future where collaboration and community thrive. Every mile brings me closer to turning these ideas into reality and creating something truly impactful in my new home.