Mom Is Back

Talked to my mom, who's back in the Detroit area after visiting my aunt and uncle in Chicago. We talked about Dayton, and agreed that my next step is to visit the place. (My boss agreed that I could take a week from this Sunday and Monday off. I feel a little guilty though.)

My mom had a lousy time in Chicago. My aunt was complaining the whole time about how the Mexicans are ruining Chicago. (Yes, she's a Trumpite.) Then she complained about people taking down the Confederate statues down in New Orleans. (What does she care? She's from Chicago.) And then my uncle piped in about how Truman had the right idea in bombing Hiroshima. And my mom flipped out. I'm glad that I wasn't there because I probably would have called them both idiots. Can't choose your family...unfortunately.

I found a place that intrigues me as a possible place to retire. South Walton, Florida. It's a string of neighborhoods, each with a different character, along the Gulf Coast with beaches. It's pedestrian and bike friendly. There are hiking trails in a nature preserve. There are quirky shops. When I think of retirement, I draw a blank, but I do want to live near water. I grew up on the shores of Lake Michigan, and do I ever miss it. I know that retiring in Florida is kind of a cliche, but I wouldn't let that stop me.

I'm feeling kind of sad or depressed, and don't know why.