Although Nick has already covered most of my weekend, but there are a few things I’d like to add (it’s been a few hours since I read Nick’s post so I actually might end up repeating some of what he said).

Friday was our annual Good Friday safety meeting at work. Waking up an hour earlier than usual did nothing for my outlook on the day, and the thought of the 6-hour+ drive that laid ahead was also quite depressing. On top of all of this, I forgot my friggin’ Mapquest directions, leaving me to rely solely on my wits and Hoover’s TomTom GPS Navigation Device. The hours of watching videos of men pretending to be careless on the job flew by and I began my trek to Chestertown. The first leg of the trip was quite familiar as I’d made it many times in the past. I deftly navigated the unfamiliar 2/3rds of my journey with minimal problems. Only twice did TomTom show me driving in a tan nothingness, instructing me in a stern yet somehow also genial Australian accent to turn onto invisible roads that apparently cut through concrete dividers. The highlight of the trip was definitely the Bay Bridge. It was well worth the $2.50 cost of admission (which they mistakenly refer to as a “toll”). My only regret is that I didn’t have more time to enjoy the view since I was also in charge of driving my automobile. TomTom may be a serviceable navigator, but his autopilot skills are virtually nonexistent.

I finally arrived at my destination, a bit stiff but also quite proud of myself. Friday night and Saturday happened pretty much exactly as Nick described, and they were both indeed quite informative and entertaining. One of the guest speakers, who left a bit of a bad taste in my mouth after Friday night definitely redeemed himself on Saturday, so I am happy to report that I enjoyed the event in its entirety. I also finally got to meet the lovely Kate, who is an excellent human being, and Shannon, whom Nick has said some things about in the past (she is also excellent and made some damn good margarita cupcakes).

Sunday flew by and before I knew it, it was time for me to pack up and head out. I was incredibly sad to leave the beautiful weather (and of course also the awesome people), but it had to end sometime.

I set multiple land speed records on the way home and managed to shave at least 45 minutes off of the return trip, a feat of which I’m quite proud. Now I’m back at work, reminiscing about the weekend and planning my next trip down.

I also did a bit of silly writing this weekend which I will probably post at some point in the near future. One of my requirements for continuing the work, however, is that I must only do it when I’m hungover, which will severely limit my working hours (either that or it will severely limit my liver functions). Please keep your eyes peeled for that.