Reflections On The Year: New Job Was Worth The Sacrifice

Usually my weekly column provides insight on how to live a healthier life through proper nutrition and exercise.

My article this week will focus on a different kind of well-being. My well-being.

In July of 2016, I took the job in Neligh, Nebraska working as an Extension Educator for the University of Nebraska. This position would give me the opportunity to increase the nutritional and physical literacy of children and adults in Northeast Nebraska. Throughout my professional career, I had searched for ways to have a positive nutritional impact on a community. This position as a Food, Nutrition, and Health Extension Educator would provide me with that impactful opportunity.  With this opportunity of a lifetime, came sacrifice.

​In taking this position, I would have to move away from my home and family in Orlando, Florida. While my wife finishes up business matters in Orlando, I would be moving across the country as a party of one. Transitioning from a region of 2,000,000+ people in the Orlando area, to only a few thousand people in Northeast Nebraska could have been a daunting task. There are a few organizations and people that I would like to thank for helping me feel welcome into my home.
I would like to thank my co-workers in the Antelope County Extension office and at the University of Nebraska. You welcomed me into your offices and programs with open arms. I am looking forward to an amazing 2017.
Thank you goes out to the Neligh Economic Development Office. You showed me how businesses working together can strengthen the foundation of the community. Your tour of the town really sealed the deal!
A huge thanks goes out to the local newspapers in my community for publishing my articles every week. You have provided me with a forum to provide healthy living tips for the members of our community. Thank you for keeping our communities informed.
My final thank you goes out to my best friend, my wife. Being apart for months on end has only strengthened our relationship. I look forward to the time that I will be able to spend with her and our dogs over the next few weeks. It will probably take all of those two weeks to convince her to leave 85 degree weather and join me here where anything above 20 degrees is considered a heat wave.
I will see you in 2017!