Ten Places That Influenced My Life

Two of them, one until I was ten, then the other to adulthood. My family life was pretty typical lower middle class for the times, but the move caused some social isolation and probably set my social development back a few years.

My college fraternity, where I was welcomed into a group of brothers. Was pushed beyond my comfort zone, and realized it was good.

Loved the fraternity experience so I went to work for the headquarters after graduation. I would travel the US for the better part of two years, then stay in positions of increasing responsibility for another ten years.

The job is forgettable, but met my wife there and still have a couple of friends twenty three years later.

When I realized I liked traveling after a few gnarly work experiences. Would get worn out on travel in later years, but still enjoy (most of) the destinations.

Eight weeks there for work. Realized I had to depend on myself and my wits to succeed.

Honeymoon. For the first time as an adult, got the full benefit of being away from home and work and enjoying site seeing.

Where I realized I didn't like the loud, boisterous lifestyle. Been there, done that, have the Hurricane glasses (since '82).

Foodtown... my first job. Worked hard, had fun. Came out of my shell as a person and a personality.

Football officiating class location. Officiating has become a significant part of my fall free time, and I've gotten a whole new fraternity (my crew...).