Welcome to Atlanta, Where the Players Play

Lately I’ve been trying to explore this city in which I live. I get so caught up in my routines that sometimes I forget there are hundreds of places to eat; I still haven’t tried here and here. And hundreds of places to shop; like, I want to go here.
So on a recent mission to experience Atlanta as a tourist and a native at the same, I finally made it over to The Vortex. It is a staple in this city and I can’t believe it took me 2 years to try it. I enjoyed a blueberry lager and a burger topped with blue cheese and onions with fried zucchini on the side. It was awesome.

The best part of it all was sitting on the tree-lined sidewalk and enjoying the hustle and bustle of cars in a rush to get somewhere, people walking their dogs, and the view of tall buildings which kept me wondering who works and lives in these places. Coincidently, I have a gathering to attend this Thursday evening that will be at The Vortex, so I can’t wait to go back and try a new burger, and maybe get the sweet potato fries this time.

After lunch, we made our way to Underground Atlanta, also an Atlanta staple. I’m not going to lie, I didn’t stay long. I haven’t been since elementary school and I can’t imagine I will go back anytime soon.

My absolute favorite thing I’ve done lately is go on a ghost tour. Yep, a ghost tour. I wouldn’t consider myself someone who really believes in paranormal activity, but I can get into it at times only because I enjoy a good spook. Under the recommendation of some friends, we ordered tickets to experience Atlanta in a way that hundreds claim they do.

We met at the corner of a hotel that lives in infamy. We walked past churches that now stand where devastating events during the Civil Right Movement took place. And, I think I may have had an experience with a ghost. I know, I know - it sounds insane. But for a non-believer, it all seemed very real. Whether it was just because I was wrapped up in the experience, or because I actually saw this man approaching me just as the lady said I would, it was fun. Regardless of the authenticity of it all, I learned a lot about this city.

I'm going to keep branching out to see what I can get myself into.

New Dawn, New Day

I officially started my new job on Monday! Honestly, it wasn't very exciting. There was a lot of sitting around and doing absolutely nothing. My new boss took me to lunch, but didn't do a very good job of introducing me to people that first day. Yesterday was a bit better. I met more people (although I honestly only remember, like, one name) and got to walk through the laboratories. There are three laboratories that manage the testing for several genetic mutations. I am working with some smart people!

I typically feel quite confident in my intellect, however there are a lot of words being used around me that I am still having to learn. As intimidating as it all seems at times, I am very excited at the thought that one day I will be able to hold these same conversations with people, and actually know what I'm talking about.

It is a completely different environment from the one I am used to working in. I was so comfortable at my old job, so I'm working to feel comfortable here. I am even reading several books by Dr. Fran Balkwill. Yes, the children’s books. It helps to be reminded of what adenine, thymine, cytosine and guanine are.

My hours are a tad longer and traffic is a bit worse, but I know this is all leading to something good. This position could be what helps to propel me to exactly where I want to be one day.

The Science of Success

 “I admit it’s tempting to wish for the perfect boss, or the perfect parent

or the perfect outfit, but maybe the best any of us can do is not quit,

play the hand we’ve been given and accessorize the outfit we’ve got.”

- Carrie Bradshaw

I have been slacking on my writing duties because the biggest news I have to share was not shareable yet. Finally, I can formally announce to everyone that I got a new job!

I have spent the last few months applying, waiting, interviewing, waiting, interviewing again, waiting, negotiating and finally being offered a position that may be the most amazing opportunity to ever present itself to me.

I will be staying in a marketing position but transitioning into a completely different industry- healthcare. This does not come as a surprise to most of my friends, as they are fully aware of my geeky obsession with reading up on the latest and greatest in medicine.

Specifically, I will be working with one of the most respected genetic labs in the country and working with some amazingly intelligent individuals.

I am very excited about what the future holds and can’t wait to keep you all up-to-date as everything begins to unfold.