This morning was the first day of working part-time for a small charter boat company out of Huntington Harbor in Southern California. We took an elderly lady, her son, her friend and her minister out to sea, to spread the ashes of her late husband. Aside from a three-foot swell, the weather was perfect, and it was a very touching and moving event.

Tomorrow afternoon I have an interview with the government to check on my background. If all goes well, I will receive my Transportation Workers Identification Certificate, or TWIC card. All of these are just small steps for me as I work towards receiving my 100 Ton Masters License.

At the age of Fifty-Five, I am able to change my career, continue to educate myself and make a difference in people’s lives. I am grateful for the changes that are happening in my life. I am grateful for the educators, captains, crew and the many people in my life who are encouraging and supporting me in my new endeavors. It is okay if the some of the people in my life don’t understand what I am doing; I love them anyway and I am happy. Another thing to be grateful for.