digital nomad lifestyle Archives - Jared Kuvent

Finding Roots In Maine After 3,500 Miles On The Road

Jared Kuvent — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 22:38:15 +0000

Finding Roots In Maine After 3,500 Miles On The Road

I woke up to the kind of morning that only Maine can deliver. The crisp fall air had filtered in through the open window, and I could smell that unmistakable scent of damp leaves and cool earth. After weeks of being on the road, it felt grounding to know I’d be here for a while. The house was peaceful; Scott was already working away in his attic office. If you’ve never met Scott, he’s a historian and preservationist with a profound respect for the past. He’s worked with the Portland Historical Preservation group, consulted on major projects, and even wrote a bestseller, Restoring Your Historic House: The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners. His love for historic preservation is everywhere in this house, from his work restoring this place to the endless stories he uncovers about its history.

Today, I had no plans for the road, no new town to explore, just a day to settle in and catch up. I made my coffee, sat down at my workstation, and spent the morning editing the footage from my drive into Maine. I had already driven more than 3,500 miles, and as much as I loved the journey, it was a relief to finally pause for a while. Between driving, documenting, and keeping up with the blog, it’s been a balancing act to stay on top of everything. It’s no small feat to capture the essence of this trip in a way that does it justice, but I’m grateful for every mile and every story it’s allowed me to share.

A Morning with AJS

A bit later, I logged into my morning AJS meeting. AJS is an interactive networking group that’s become an important part of my daily routine. It’s a support network for people actively searching for work, and the group has grown into a circle of encouragement and inspiration. Today, I filled them in on my recent interview with Angel City Data, a software company in LA that develops custom business applications. Working with them would be an incredible opportunity, and the team at AJS shared my excitement, cheering me on. Kyle, one of the group members, even said that my blog has inspired him to start creating more content himself. I think it’s amazing how sharing your own journey can ripple out to others, sometimes in ways you don’t expect.

Being on the road can be isolating, but having this group has been a constant reminder of the connections I’ve built over time. And it’s all part of what this journey is about—not just the places I visit, but the connections I maintain and strengthen along the way.

Reuniting with Ethan

After the meeting, it was time to reconnect with my brother, Ethan, who recently moved to Maine. First, I stopped by Amato’s for lunch—the Original Italian sub from this place is legendary. This sandwich is the best of New England: house-made ham, American cheese, pickles, onions, green peppers, and tomato, all soaked in a vinegar-oil blend. For Ethan, I picked up a meatball sub, and Josh, his roommate, got a roast beef Italian. Rounding out the meal with some local root beer felt like the perfect touch for a real Maine lunch.

Ethan’s new place is a cozy duplex that has a sense of home about it—warm, welcoming, and unpretentious. We sat down at the table and dove into our sandwiches, catching up on life, work, and my road trip. It felt good to be back with him, sharing a meal and talking like no time had passed at all. After lunch, we decided to pay a visit to the Terison family in Falmouth. They’ve been lifelong friends, and stopping by felt like reconnecting with family.

Surprising the Terison Family

Arriving at the Terison farm, I knew a big surprise was in store. John Terison is an old friend, a musician and someone I met back in high school choir. His house is filled with musical instruments, including not one, but three pipe organs, which speaks volumes about his love for music. John married his college sweetheart, Ashley, who is one of the warmest people you could ever meet. Her calm presence and gentle voice bring a real sense of peace to their home.

They hadn’t known I was coming, so when John opened the door, his shock turned to joy as he pulled me in for a hug. Inside, Ashley was across the room, and as I looked closer, I realized she was expecting—due any day, in fact! It was the best surprise, and I couldn’t be happier for them. The Terison farm is like a little world of its own, with John’s parents, Mark and Nancy, living just down the path.

John poured me a glass of fresh-pressed apple cider, a taste of Maine in a cup. As we sipped, he told me about the anticipation of becoming a dad. You could feel his excitement mixed with a healthy dose of nervousness, which anyone would feel so close to that life-changing moment.

We walked down to Mark and Nancy’s house, a classic New England farmhouse with big windows and a view of the rolling fields. Nancy had just returned from running errands, and her face lit up when she saw me. “Jared!!” she exclaimed as she came over for a big hug. The Terisons have been there for me through everything, and spending time with them was like being wrapped in the warmth of family. Even their three corgis joined the welcome, sniffing and wagging around us. Nancy introduced me to her new kittens in the basement—three adorable gray fluffballs, one of whom took a liking to me, attempting to scale my pant leg.

Visiting the Welches

After leaving the Terison farm, Ethan and I headed over to see the Welches, another family close to ours. Jodi, Josh’s mom, greeted us with a hug, and we spent the next hour catching up, laughing, and sharing stories about the road. My mom and Jodi go way back, and it’s a reminder of how close our families have always been. It’s grounding to know these connections are still here, unchanging, no matter where life takes us.

A Quiet Evening in Topsham

When I returned to Topsham, Andrew was just getting home, and we dove into dinner prep. Andrew made a spiced chicken and rice dish, and we all sat down to enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal. Afterward, we set out to pick up Gabrielle, a friend we met through Outright, an organization providing safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth. Outright is a vital part of our community, and it’s where Gabrielle and Andrew first met. Gabrielle’s energy and infectious laughter make any evening more memorable, and she has a knack for adding humor to even the simplest moments.

Our first stop was the L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport, open 24 hours and sprawling across a campus of buildings. There’s something special about walking through L.L. Bean late at night, with the store nearly empty and the staff ready for a chat. We wandered through the aisles, admiring winter gear, and reminiscing about old times.

But the night wasn’t complete without a visit to Gelato Fiasco. Andrew and I have a tradition of going multiple times each week whenever I’m back, and it felt just right to stop by for Maine Blueberry gelato. Gabrielle spotted a secret menu item—a milkshake—and quickly ordered one, while I enjoyed my classic blueberry flavor.

Thinking the night was winding down, they surprised me with a visit to Kristie’s Creations, a tiny roadside shack offering cakes and cupcakes on an honor system. The little stand is open 24 hours and is stocked with all kinds of treats. I picked out a blueberry-filled cupcake, perfectly chilled and covered in buttery frosting, an indulgence I couldn’t resist after a long day.

Reflections at the Whitten House

By the time we returned to the Whitten House, I was ready for rest. Heading upstairs, I opened the window to let in the crisp night air and settled in, my mind turning over the day’s moments. This wasn’t just another stop; it was a return to familiar faces and places, each one carrying pieces of my past and grounding me in the present. Here, in the heart of Maine, surrounded by the people who shaped me, I felt a quiet sense of belonging. The road still calls, but tonight, I know I’m exactly where I need to be.

If you could spend a month in one place after a long trip, where would it be and why?

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Finally in Maine: A Journey’s End and New Beginnings

Jared Kuvent — Wed, 13 Nov 2024 01:38:45 +0000

Finally in Maine: A Journey’s End and New Beginnings

I’ve finally arrived in Maine—my home for the next month and a half, and the last stop on this long cross-country journey. It’s been over 3,500 miles of highways, unfamiliar towns, beautiful landscapes, and countless memories, but the feeling of landing somewhere familiar, with time to truly settle in, is incredible. Maine brings a new pace, a chance to unwind, and the joy of reuniting with lifelong friends.

A Rhode Island Send-Off

Before Maine, I spent one last morning in Rhode Island, taking things slow and enjoying the company of my mom and brother, Zack. Waking up to the smell of coffee drifting up the stairs, I joined them in the kitchen for one last round of conversation. We caught up on life, the road so far, and what was coming next. It’s those simple moments of sitting together, without the hurry, that feel grounding and make it hard to say goodbye.

After coffee, I joined my AJS networking group and updated everyone on my interview with Angel City Data. This group has been such a supportive part of the trip—they know the demands of this adventure and were excited to hear about the interview’s highlights. It feels great to have that kind of support, especially on the road. Knowing a few of them are following the blog brings an extra sense of connection to what I’m sharing.

Saying goodbye to family is always tough, and leaving Rhode Island was no exception. Mom and Zack have been my core support for so long, so those final hugs held a lot. I could feel the weight of the miles already covered and the relief that I was so close to the last destination.

Hitting the Road for Maine

As I drove through New England, a familiar sense of calm washed over me. The skies were partly cloudy, with just enough sun to light up the landscape of tall pines, rugged terrain, and the remaining fall foliage that New England is known for. The crisp 60-degree weather reminded me of all the reasons I love this part of the country.

After weeks of travel, I’m feeling the weight of balancing the blog, the videos, and the driving. Documenting everything has been rewarding but demanding, requiring careful planning and a lot of energy. As much as I love capturing each piece of this journey, I’ve been craving a chance to stay in one place, to focus on these reflections without the need to pack up and go again the next day. Maine is my chance to do just that—capture, reflect, and let the experience unfold in a more settled way.

Arriving at the Historic Whitten House

I finally pulled off the highway and arrived in Topsham, where I’ll be staying with my close friends Andrew and Scott. They live in the Whitten House, a beautiful 200-year-old home with layers of history. Originally owned by the Whitten family, it was later a public library before Scott began restoring it to its original charm. There’s something timeless about this place—the way it stands proudly in its own little piece of Maine history.

Andrew and I go way back to our childhood karate classes. For years, we were inseparable, always finding a way to connect even as life took us in different directions. Coming here feels like returning to a second home. I was greeted with hugs, immediately caught up with tales from the trip, and settled into a familiar setup. I’ll be working from Andrew’s desk, a space I know well since I helped him build this computer. With my light and microphone in place and a fantastic BenQ monitor, I’m ready to get to work and bring all these stories to life.

Reuniting with Traditions and Maine Flavors

After a quick nap, I woke to the smell of dinner—Scott had prepared a home-cooked meal, and the three of us gathered to eat. There’s a unique comfort in sharing meals like this after so much time on the go, grabbing meals from diners or take-out along the road. The food, the laughter, and the stories felt like the grounding I’ve been looking for.

Later, Andrew and I picked up on a tradition we’ve had for years with a trip to Gelato Fiasco, our favorite spot in town. This place is a must whenever I’m back in Topsham, with friendly locals, cozy seating, and flavors that never disappoint. I went with Maine Blueberry Cobbler and Toasted Coconut, two of my favorites, each bite bringing back memories of past visits and long conversations. Simple traditions like these feel like bookmarks in life, grounding you in the here and now.

Settling into Maine for the Long Haul

With dinner and gelato behind me, I settled into bed with a deep sense of relief. I left the window cracked to let in the crisp night air, wrapped myself in the quiet of the Whitten House, and drifted off to sleep. This stop is more than just a pause in the journey; it’s a place to dig in, reconnect, and embrace the slower pace I’ve been looking forward to.

Being in Maine feels like the perfect setting to wrap up this adventure, to let the miles and memories settle, and to enjoy the presence of lifelong friends and familiar landscapes. There’s work to be done and stories to be told, but for now, it’s time to rest, reflect, and make the most of this New England season.

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A Taste of New England on the Horizon

Jared Kuvent — Sat, 09 Nov 2024 13:19:11 +0000

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.

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