Dear diary…
It is now May 29, 2021. I have been a road warrior since we talked last. I left Nashville, put in a long da in the car, and ended up in Greenville, South Carolina. It was a tough drive, but I managed. Mostly I just don’t love the prospect of more than three or four hours in the car at a time, but I had to adjust expectations because I had such a great time in Nashville, and needed to get to SC. I was able to secure an in-person interview Wednesday morning, and after wrapping that up, I headed to Raleigh.
I got into the North Carolina city, found an ice rink, and quickly was reunited with an old friend, Michael. We had fallen out of touch somewhat, but he ended up being at the rink I arrived at, and we were able to catch up. It was fantastic. I began talking to some folks, and looking to line things up, and it began to flow. There was some good reaction to the idea of the trip, and it was overall, a positive experience. Thursday, the Canes beat the Preds in overtime, and won the series, sending them into a second-round battle with the Lightning. I never thought I would be able to see so many different barns for the NHL teams, and yet, I am heading to game 1 on Sunday here in Raleigh. I am so excited!
Last night I was connected with a group my friend skates with in pick up, occasionally. It was a great group of guys and girls, and I was able to wear my jersey for a skate for the first time ever. It felt GREAT! As I jumped the boards and took the ice for the first time (see photo), I felt a rush of emotion. It was the culmination of a lot of hard work. I know it may sound silly, but it was a proud moment for me to represent my own colors.
I am excited about the game tomorrow here in Raleigh, and I am still in the midst of the warrior phase. I will be hitting the road Monday, and by the end of next week I will be back in Colorado, if briefly. I head to Montana on a little trip, and I am looking forward to it. Between now and then, I head off to face the day, and make the best of everything!
In hockey,
Vladan