KEY LARGO

Guess what, folks? I just returned from my very first solo adventure, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of epic! Despite my initial butterflies about flying solo, rest assured, this won't be my last solo escapade.

So, I hopped on a plane to Miami and then zipped down to Key Largo for REEF Fest. Why, you ask? Well, I had this wild urge to catch a sneak peek of what my life could be like if I dove headfirst into coral restoration. Pun intended ;)

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Now, picture this: I'm mingling with the locals, and they're all like, "You're a Texan? Why coral restoration? What's the deal?" And I swear I must've given a different answer to every single one of them.

You know Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, right? Well, if Maslow had a version for ocean ecosystems, coral reefs would be the very foundation of that pyramid. They provide the food and shelter that makes the marine world go 'round, from the teeniest fish to the grandest whales. And I guess my final answer is that I've got this burning desire to help lay that foundation for all the ocean's cool cats, like jellyfish.

Then comes the diving part, which, let me tell you, is like catching a crazy addiction you never want to quit. Coral Restoration Foundation took me on a deep-sea journey to two of their fantastic dive sites. One was a tree farm nursery, and the other was an out-planted reef where we frolicked amidst the most spectacular dive conditions you could ever imagine. Warm waters, perfect visibility, and no annoying currents to mess up our groove.

And even though this summer's heatwave did a number on the coral, life was still swirling all around us. Moon jellies made their grand entrance, gracefully gliding through, giving our dives a thrilling 'dodge the bullet' game.

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But diving isn't just an activity; it's a passionate love affair with the sea. I've always been smitten with the ocean. It's like time itself hits the brakes down there, making every underwater moment feel like its very own lifetime. It's vast, powerful, and teeming with mysteries. Every dive reminds me how tiny I am and, weirdly, that's the best kind of humble.

Day two of diving was like the cherry on top. Perfect weather, crystal-clear waters, baby green sea turtles swimming around in me in circles and dolphins saying hello on our way back—pure magic. We even did fish surveys for REEF, making us part of something much bigger than ourselves.

And then there were the events: happy hours, open houses, seminars, and dinners with some of the friendliest people who made me feel right at home. It's a breath of fresh sea air to be surrounded by folks who share my passion.

And by folks I mean the place was buzzing with retirees, the legendary "Snow Birds" who soar south to escape winter's chilly clutches up north. I had a delightful chat with Mark, and to my surprise, we found we had plenty in common. Who knew that I'd discover common ground with an old-timer?

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I didn't stop at diving; I explored a local bird sanctuary, geeked out at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and time-traveled at the History of Diving Museum. Can you believe how diving gear has evolved since the 1800s? How did someone in their right mind think wearing this 20ft down was safe?

And here's the kicker: I surprisingly relished my alone time. Maybe it's because I wasn't alone at all. I was in a place that nourishes my soul and among people who spark my dreams.

Because of all this, my intuition was practically screaming that I was meant to be there. So, here's to keeping my fingers crossed for an opportunity to come knocking on my door soon. I can already envision Butters and me, rising at the crack of dawn to witness the sunrise from the cozy little boat we'd call home at the marina down there.

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Now, you might be wondering, "Where are those stunning photos?" Well, my not-so-brainy self packed my camera but left its battery behind. It was like missing a limb the whole weekend, but I rocked it with my sea legs instead.

How did I wrap up this adventure, you ask? The only proper way, of course: I caught the sunset, a magical finale to an unforgettable journey.

It really is the little things :)