March 04th, 2026

Key West

Darcy and I met when we were 10. 
As the years pass, our friendship is one that I cherish, and respect, even more. 

She and Ted have been inviting Mike and I down to the Florida Keys for years. We finally made it happen. 🎉

I don’t think I have ever cast a fishing rod? They make it look SO easy, and graceful. I felt like I had 5 thumbs, and it was super fun practicing and improving. ​

Mike caught (and released) several Snapper, and Darcy reeled in (and released) a Barracuda.

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“At every moment, we always have a choice,
even if it feels we don’t. 
Sometimes that choice may simply be to think a more positive thought.”

~ Tina Turner

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Hello, friends!

We had fantastic weather for our first two days in Key West. Sunny, warm, and very little wind. Perfect for two days out on the water . . . definitely one of my most happy places. 

Getting to see this WILDerness by boat is phenomenal. Ted is an expert fisherman, boat captain, and guide, so our time was truly special. Darcy and Ted are both patient teachers as Mike and I tried to find our way with the fishing rod. 

It’s great seeing our friends in their home habitat. They spend a lot of time with us in Michigan watching their son’s soccer season . . . so to see them in their element? 
A true gift. 

It’s a good thing no one is relying on my fishing skills for survival. 🤣 
Just one more reason for me to continue being vegetarian. 🌱😉

Next up? Mike flies home, and I drive from Key West to Anna Maria Island to join my parents. Then, lots more driving with my Mom and Dad to bring them back to Michigan via a few stops in Missouri to visit the relatives. 

I look forward to being back on the mat with some of you when I return to Michigan! 

With light and love, 

m