These last six years have been the most defining. Returning to school was one of the best decisions that I ever made. I worked hard, discovered opportunity, and grew faster and stronger than ever before. Now, I am a wildlife professional, gaining experience to prepare for my master’s degree and grander pursuits. This would have never happened without the support from my wife, family, and friends. None of this would have happened without my benefit from death. Continue reading “My Benefit from Death”
Tag: Wildlife and Fisheries Science
Nothin’ but Bat Bliss
Chasing Bats at Congaree – Episode 12
Going through the media on my phone, I tripped upon some cool bat video that I never used. It was the perfect excuse to make one last episode in this series and it certainly highlights my enthusiasm of working in Congaree.
I enjoyed making these videos; they were fun to create and share. They were a great way to keep in touch with friends and family and let them know what I was up to. I’m also glad that I kept a record of my adventure in Congaree. Perhaps I will create another vlog for my adventures Yellowstone!
Without further adieu, here is the last episode: Nothin’ but Bat Bliss!
A Life Plan That is Working
Fieldnote 4
January 14, 2017
Congaree National Park – Bates Ferry
I’m enjoying a Saturday afternoon break. Today, I began the final push to wrap up the glow stick project. A couple hours in front of the computer, I had to get outdoors. I’m not used to spending that much time staring at the monitor or sitting in one spot for that much time. Nothing wrong with a slight diversion, right?
Bates Ferry Trail provided the break that I needed. It’s only a little over a mile from the trailhead down to the river and it’s a quiet, seldom used trail. I doubt that I will see another soul out here.
On the bank of the Congaree River, I am writing. My life back home seems so far away. It’s cold there and this afternoon, it’s warm here. I’ve never spent a January like this. I am warm and comfortable as I sit in my flannel shirt. I’m contemplating what to do next – maybe Alaska!
Life has changed so much since quitting my job at Pride Mobility. Times may have been rough in that year between then and school but I survived. Continuing my education, I had a vague direction; I didn’t know where this path would lead. I’m happy that it lead here – the outdoors.
My career is unfolding before me. I made a life plan that is working. I earned my education and identified great opportunities along the way. It has been fulfilling. For instance, last night, I was netting for bats at Congaree National Park in South Carolina. I do good work and the experience is rewarding. Five years ago, I could not imagine the possibility!
A thousand miles away on the shores of the Congaree River. Who would have thought? Maybe one day, it will be at the very top of the Alaskan Highway or out west somewhere. For now, I am content to sit in the warm sun, chasing bats through the swamp, and finishing my manuscript.
I am forever grateful to those who have supported me on this journey. A career in wildlife isn’t an easy one, but the reward is grand. I could have never attained this success without you.
~ Michael
Post-Holiday Update
The holidays were great! I was happy to be back home in Pennsylvania for the week and it was nice to spend time with friends and family. I was hoping to get outdoors and experience some elevation for a change but I was content with spending time in my own house in the company of Jill and Eli, outside of the occasional trip for food and drink with a friend. Jill and I invited our parents over on Christmas day and continued the festivities the following Friday with the addition of my sister-in-law, niece, and nephew. Sadly, we canceled our anticipated New Year’s celebration plans because Jill and I experienced a terrible allergic reaction to our Christmas tree. Nonetheless, we still had a good evening together, even if we were in bed before the ball drop. Continue reading “Post-Holiday Update”
Craftsman Picture Frame
I had to make my own frame for my college certificates. What self respecting woodworker wouldn’t? I decided on a craftsman picture frame, a style that intrigued Jill and me for several years. After mounting it on the wall, I was surprised how large the frame looks. What better way to acknowledge a hard earned accomplishment? If you are interested, follow along to see how I built this project!