(Written May 1, 2026)

I recently came across a photo album dating from my first study abroad experience, my summer in the United Kingdom, July – August 2000.  The one that inspired all of the others.  Somehow, almost 26 years ago.  Thinking about all the life I’ve experienced since then inspired the following.

19 …

Before 9/11 …

Before Ecuador and Spain …

Before Austin and Andy …

Before the Accident …

Before Wheaten and Merida …

Before Graduation …

Before Brian and Houston …

Before Bay City …

Before the one-state recession …

Before the blog …

Before unemployment …

Before Best Buy and black Friday …

Before retail management …

Before living with Grandma Reid …

Before losing my grandparents …

Before the Great Recession …

Before becoming an aunt …

Before all of our adventures …

Before rediscovering the livery …

Before Garrett grew up …

Before Delta and SVSU …

Before becoming Ms. Russell …

Before substitute teaching …

Before student teaching …

Before St. Mike’s …

Before the Pandemic …

Before the destruction …

Before the flood …

Before meeting John …

Before love …

Before Alpena …

Before the concerts …

Before I watched it all fall apart …

And before I slowly put it all together once again …

Before adulthood and middle age …

I still keep calm and carry on …