More sightseeing and a race

I enjoyed spending time along the East Coast, taking in the sights and enjoying the nice weather. Wilmington has much to offer, especially before the season started. Many businesses were closed, but there were no crowds, particularly in the parking areas. The boardwalk/riverwalk is a great place to spend time.

After a day in Wilmington, I headed up the coast NE to New Bern/Bridgeton. I visited many sites.

Union Point Park

Tyron Place

Lawson Creek Park

Finding great seafood restaurants was challenging. Unlike Massachusetts or Maine, Google didn’t direct me to the best options. I only saw high-end or fast-food restaurants.

As I ended this part of the trip, I found a local ice cream shop on the way home: Andia’s Ice Cream. It’s a small local shop with three locations in North Carolina. It was good but overly sweet and creamy for my preferences.

When I returned, Jordan was participating in a 100-mile gravel race in Swansboro, NC. We headed to the race on Friday afternoon, but the forecast was not welcoming. We set up the tent at Carteret Speedway in Swansboro, NC, and moved it under a fixed shelter as rain was approaching. Just as we finished setting up, the rain hit. All night, the wind was strong, almost lifting the tent, but only a little driving rain made it into the tent. Fortunately, I had a thick air mattress, so I slept on the concrete under the little roof. The tent still had a slight amount of water from the 35 MPH winds driving the rain under the rainfly, but not enough to cause any issues.

Still had some energy at the end

Life-saving storm shelter	Finished in the rain - 106.66 miles in 7:01 (officially)

Until next time, carry on!

First trip as a retired citizen

My employer’s toxicity caused health issues, so I retired 15 months early, as Shelley will retire then. Living the same lifestyle, I’d rather be broke at 90 than dead rich at 70.

I’m unsure how my employer can be blind to employees fleeing. In my division, 90% of employees have been there for less than 18 months, and another division has 80% of its recent hires. A few employees left after 18 months.

My first retirement trip was to Cary, North Carolina, where my son lives. He planned a 150-mile bike race, and I’ll crew for him later this month. I spent a few days with him before heading out on a solo coastal adventure. He’s swamped and needs more time during the week.

On March 12, I woke up at 8:00 AM and prepared my tofu meal for the next two days. At 9 AM, I packed and left Cary, NC, for Carolina Beach, a 2.5-hour drive mostly on freeways. I arrived at the campground at 3 PM, giving me time to check the sites.

First, I visited Kure Beach Pier. The sun was bright, the temperature was 70 degrees, and the wind was strong. The waves were moderate. I was fortunate to park and enjoy activities for free until March 15. After reading a few chapters of Running With Sherman by Christopher McDougall.  I headed to the end of the road to the Fort Fisher Ferry. I returned to Fort Fisher State Park, a free and lovely beach. I plan to return tomorrow.

At 4:00 PM, I checked into Carolina Beach State Park. I have a secluded site. Check-in was easy since I slept in the car. I decided to hike a local path, but the prescribed burns reduced the scenery.

 I drove to explore the area before returning just as the sun was setting. As I prepared to sleep, I realized I needed to organize my thoughts further. I almost fell asleep several times, recalling items like my mouthguard, which was in the suitcase. I settled in at about 8:30 p.m. and watched two episodes of “Matlock” before going to sleep.

Carry on my friends, Carry on!

I am officially tired - oops RETIRED

On February 2, 2024, I retired from the City of Bloomington after serving several years in a prison-like environment. I choose Groundhog Day, as with the movie, this will be a great day I live over and over! I felt liberated from the oppressive workplace. The lack of leadership and a strong hierarchy created a miserable atmosphere. My division had 70% of its employees with three years or fewer of tenure, while another division had 80% with at least two years of tenure. This stark contrast to the 17-year average tenure when I started and the 15-year tenure before King Jamie took over as City Manager was concerning. He boasted about the benefits of new blood and ideas, but his actions and treatment of employees contradicted his words.

When I turned in my badge and computer, the director acknowledged my departure. She was unhappy because we had filed a formal complaint last summer about her inappropriate actions and the unjust treatment of employees. In January, she resigned, but she was allowed to stay until March 15 to receive her pension. She operated the division like a high school, with groups: her pets, those she disliked, and those she ignored, as if they were students.

I rode a bicycle to work!   a chilly February morning. Despite the unusual weather, I arrived around 10 a.m. and completed minor tasks with coworkers. We had lunch at a breakfast-only Hot Plate restaurant. Afterward, I had an exit interview, a routine procedure to discuss workplace issues. I’m relieved to share some information about the toxic environment before I leave.

After the interview, I rode my bicycle home. A coworker recorded the event, and I recorded my departure from the city limits. The video is available at https://youtu.be/PhQ5XU4VP3U?si=206xOC01rM-AewAM.

On February 5, 2024, I hosted a retirement party with an RSVP-only invitation. Many were surprised by my happiness, which I attribute to retirement. I feel more like paroled than retired.

My first days have been lovely. No alarm clocks, and I’m free to do whatever I want. I’m relaxing and getting my body back into a stress-free environment after the past five years of hell.

While relaxing and reading this morning, I saw a hilarious Super Bowl ticket offer.

A good friend of mine has 2 tickets for the 2024 Super Bowl, 50 yrd line box seats. He paid $5,000 each, he didn't realize last year when he bought them, it was going to be on the same day as his wedding. If you're interested, he's looking for someone to take his place. It's at St. Michaels Church, at 3pm. The bride's name is Sheila she's 5'4", about 115 lbs, good cook too. She'll be the one in the white dress. Copy & paste to keep the laughs coming!

Carry on my friends, carry on!

8 days - big change

It’s almost time! I’m just one week away from my eagerly anticipated retirement. Since setting my sights on this date in 2019, I’ve diligently saved, sacrificed vacations, and created retirement plans.

Initially, I planned to retire in September to coincide with my birthday or in May to mark my 30th anniversary. However, the toxic work environment began to affect my health, making it clear that I couldn’t continue. I initially planned to retire last fall, but the three-month delay offered a $20,000 advantage. So, I chose Groundhog Day 2024 and gave a 7-month notice on February 2, 2024. Unlike Bill Murray in the movie, I’ll wake up to total freedom from the toxic culture, mandates, deadlines, and responsibilities.

Is it a good choice? Humans often struggle to make the right choice, but we must make it and live with the consequences. I reviewed the numbers and concluded that decreasing the risk of dying rich at 70, yet broke at 92, was an easy decision. Many friends who waited until the late 60s to retire passed just past 70. One fellow employee died before he retired, and another the day he was to retire.

The best-made plans often require adjustments. Initially, I planned a three-week road trip starting the day after retirement, then two weeks later, and finally a late-March departure. However, that became problematic, so I moved it to mid-February. Even that is questionable as I prepare this post. Regardless, I’m excited to spend more time with my family, take up new hobbies, and explore the world at my own pace.

It doesn’t matter. In 8 days, I’ll have an adjustable schedule with a few non-flexible demands. Leaving that toxic environment will improve my health. I’m already feeling better as my responsibilities decrease during the transition.

A few months ago, I decided to wait until retirement to shave or cut my hair. I may stay longer since I don’t have to look professional. As you can see, I fit the part of a grumpy old mountain man well.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Year in review - short version

 "Look at my abundance" – Karen Gibbs – RIP - August 7, 1977 (age 21)

Last family photo

As we age, many individuals, including myself, find themselves revisiting the importance of cherishing life. Life is precious, yet it is often overlooked. I have frequently used the phrase “life is precious” to prepare for significant life changes this year.

My 2023 began with the realization that my current job was detrimental to my health. The stress accumulated over the past five years has taken a significant toll on my well-being. The first 25 years were remarkable, characterized by exceptional leadership. However, now, individuals are advised to avoid the workplace. In my division, 80% (10 employees) have not been in their positions for over 18 months. Three replacements were hired for individuals who resigned after a few months, and more departures may occur soon. The organization has become toxic.

RIP my pal, Porter

In October, my physician issued a firm warning that if I wish to continue living, substantial changes are necessary. Medicine and routine blood infusions are merely temporary solutions. The passing of my father and my beloved 8-year-old Golden Retriever compounded this warning. Additionally, several younger friends, including Becky Schindler, who made my decision to retire early a necessity rather than a choice, have also passed away. I hired Becky 30 years ago and collaborated with her throughout her entire career. Tragically, she passed away in 2023 at the age of 50. I contemplated whether I should continue working to avoid financial concerns related to retirement or resign early with uncertain finances.

My financial advisor predicts that at the age of 92, I would be financially destitute if I adhered to my planned retirement lifestyle. This includes spending 35% more than my current expenses, accounting for inflation. Being financially destitute at the age of 92 is preferable to being financially affluent and dead at the age of 70. Consequently, I submitted my six-month notice in July, announcing my retirement on February 2, 2024, at the age of 61 1/2. I selected this date because I had previously expressed my desire for February 4, 2024 (2424), but that date fell on a Sunday. Therefore, I opted for Friday, February 2, which coincidentally coincides with Groundhog Day.

In August, I also resolved to refrain from cutting my hair or shaving until my retirement. I adopted a similar approach during the COVID-19 pandemic, as my son Chris aptly compared it. I am curious to hear your thoughts on this decision. My son certainly possesses a unique sense of humor.

Let me give you a quick family update, starting with Chris. Just so you know, I’ll always call him Chris, even though he insists it’s Topher! His full name is Christopher, and I really like the first half, while he’s partial to the second. It’s like a glass half full or half empty, all depending on who you ask! But hey, if you’re not sure, the glass is full, half water and half air, right? I mean, if he were to use only a portion of his real name, let's call him Stop!

Jacob Londell Williams

Chris had quite the journey for a few years. In 2022, my only grandson, Jake, passed away. He was born with some conditions that they knew would be tough, but he lived longer than they ever imagined. Sometimes, I thought Jake was Chris’s rock, giving him purpose and direction. Maybe some of my genes rubbed off on him, because we never gave up! Jake lived longer than we thought, and Chris never stopped being his dad. After Jake’s passing, Chris started a new chapter, including getting engaged. He moved to Salem, Massachusetts, with his fiancée in May 2023. Luckily, he was able to keep his job with US Back. A secure job is super important, you know? He always loved Massachusetts and lighthouses. It was good for him to leave Fargo, where so much of his life revolved around Jake. We try to stay in touch when we can. I call Chris my “Cats in the Cradle” child. If you know the song, you’ll get what I mean.

Jordan and Kira, who live in Cary, North Carolina, with their adorable Australian Shepherd, LuLu, are doing well! Kira’s holding a neighbor’s kid in the photo—not hers! They thought I needed a granddog, so I felt like I had a reason to visit. Plus, I love taking care of LuLu. They both had to travel for work. Kira’s on the road at least once every two months, but Jordan’s been traveling more since COVID-19 stopped travel. Now, it’s all international, mainly Germany, Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

Jordan’s a big fan of biking! He rode over 13,000 miles in 2022. In March 2023, he had a really bad bicycle accident. His right shoulder was shattered, and he had bone fragments close to blood vessels that could have been fatal. After lots of surgeries and rehab, he got back to all his movements and activities in October. He started biking again, so running isn’t half of his workouts anymore.

As Shelley and I get ready to retire (she’s retiring in May 2025), she has decided to replace the house’s windows, siding, and roof. This will save us money during retirement.  

Shelley remains occupied with her seven grandchildren, ranging in age from six months to eight years old. Three reside in Fayetteville, Arkansas, while the remaining four reside in Brentwood, Tennessee. Despite our shared residence, we often find ourselves separated for extended periods. To facilitate this, Shelley has adopted a remote work arrangement, commuting to one of the locations every six weeks. I eagerly anticipate retirement and the prospect of embarking on these joint excursions.

During the Christmas season, Shelley was in Tennessee, leaving me to occupy the house in solitude. While this may appear somber, I found solace in the tranquility and introspection it afforded me. The commencement of my new chapter in life is scheduled for February 2, 2024. May this transition be both fulfilling and enduring.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Great trail ideas for biking in retirement

Since I stopped running, biking has become my most significant activity. I’ve always dreamed of long, casual rides without time limits, where I can enjoy life and the beauty around me.

I researched trains, and Larry Lee, who retired about 7 years ago, shared some great trails he’s found. Here are a few that intrigue me:

Multiple Day Trails

The Great Allegheny Passage, commencing in Cumberland, Maryland, and concluding in Downtown Pittsburgh, presents a remarkable 150-mile nonmotorized trail. This scenic route traverses valleys, meanders through mountains, and skirts the banks of several rivers on a nearly level, crushed-limestone surface. By following ancient footpaths and railroad corridors through the wilderness, hikers gain insights into the nation’s westward expansion and industrial prowess. When combined with the connecting C&O Canal Towpath, the Great Allegheny Passage facilitates extended trail travel between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

Silver Comet Trail and Chief Ladiga Trail: The Silver Comet Trail, stretching 62 miles from Smyrna, Georgia, to the Alabama state line, offers a captivating adventure. It seamlessly connects to the Chief Ladiga Trail, traversing 33 miles of picturesque Alabama countryside. Together, these trails create a nearly 100-mile trail that promises an unforgettable experience.

The Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long and has short on-road connections through Baxter and Bemidji. It is the longest of Minnesota's state trails and the longest continuously paved rail trail in the country. 

The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a remarkable 73-mile asphalt trail that traverses the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer. Its creation was the result of a unique partnership between the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the United States Government, and the State of Idaho. The trail meanders through the historic Silver Valley, along the Coeur d’Alene River, past scenic Lake Coeur d’Alene, and through rolling farmlands to Plummer. Twenty developed trailheads provide entry points, and there are twenty scenic waysides along the route with tables for picnics or brief rest.

George S. Mickelson Trail—This is a 108-mile trail through South Dakota. The map has varied elevations and many great sites to enjoy! There are four tunnels (between Hill City and Rochford), 35 interpretative signs (great lessons in history), and more than 100 bridges.

The Katy State Trail is a 237-mile trail stretching across most of Missouri. Over half the Trail's length follows Lewis and Clark's path up the Missouri River, where you can ride beneath towering river bluffs while eagles circle overhead. After leaving the river, the Trail meanders through peaceful farmland and small-town America.

Wabash Trace Nature Trail — This trail is a converted railroad right-of-way running 63 miles through the scenic Southwest Iowa countryside.  It has 72 bridges.  It is close to home because it is in Iowa.

Singe Day Trails

The Provo River Parkway trail is a 15.2-mile point-to-point trail near Provo, Utah. Generally considered a moderately challenging route with about 800 feet of climb.

The Grand Teton National Park Trail - This 7.8-mile point-to-point Trail near Moose, Wyoming, is generally considered an accessible route.  My son did this segment when he rode from Canada to Denver, and I drove as. a crew member.  It was spectacular!

The River Mountains Trail - The River Mountains Trail is approximately 34 miles long and surrounds the River Mountains, connecting Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Hoover Dam, Henderson, Boulder City, and the rest of the Las Vegas Valley.

The Heartland State Trail could be a multiple-day ride for an out-and-back!  It was one of the first rail-to-trail projects in the country. It is a 49-mile multiple-use trail between Park Rapids and Cass Lake. The Trail is located entirely on a level abandoned railroad grade, except for a four-mile segment north of Walker on sharply rolling terrain for snowmobilers.

Banks-Vernonia State Trail, the inaugural “rails-to-trails” trail in Oregon, traverses an abandoned railroad bed spanning 21 miles between Banks and Vernonia. The trail boasts notable features such as 13 bridges and panoramic vistas from the 733-foot-long, 80-foot-high Buxton Trestle, accessible to hikers and cyclists alike. A ground-level equestrian bypass gracefully crosses Mendenhall Creek. The trail’s southern terminus commences in Banks, a town of 1,900 nestled amidst agricultural operations. As it progresses northward, the trail meanders through farming lands and riparian areas before reaching the densely forested foothills of the Coast Range. The trail concludes in Vernonia, a town of 2,200 surrounded by private timberland and small farms.

Hugh S. Branyon Trail—The 28-mile path in Gulf State Park takes riders through nine different ecosystems, including coastal dunes, freshwater lakes, marshes, and maritime forests peppered with longleaf pines, palmettos, and moody oaks dripping in Spanish moss. The path crosses boardwalk bridges to a white sand beach and passes Lefty, the resident alligator's usual hangout, and the nests of two mating pairs of bald eagles.

I am not looking for mountain bike trails; rails to trails are my favorite.  Do you have any suggestions?

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Anonymous - Look up the Withlacoochee State Trail in Florida. 46 miles. I jog on it frequently. Send me a note if you ever get down. My blog is called How Far to the Barn. 

The Great Allegheny Passage, commencing in Cumberland, Maryland, and concluding in Downtown Pittsburgh, presents a remarkable 150-mile nonmotorized trail. This scenic route traverses valleys, meanders through mountains, and skirts the banks of several rivers on a nearly level, crushed-limestone surface. By following ancient footpaths and railroad corridors through the wilderness, hikers gain insights into the nation’s westward expansion and industrial prowess. When combined with the connecting C&O Canal Towpath, the Great Allegheny Passage facilitates extended trail travel between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

Silver Comet Trail and Chief Ladiga Trail: The Silver Comet Trail, stretching 62 miles from Smyrna, Georgia, to the Alabama state line, offers a captivating adventure. It seamlessly connects to the Chief Ladiga Trail, traversing 33 miles of picturesque Alabama countryside. Together, these trails create a nearly 100-mile trail that promises an unforgettable experience.

The Paul Bunyan State Trail is 115 miles long and has short on-road connections through Baxter and Bemidji. It is the longest of Minnesota's state trails and the longest continuously paved rail trail in the country. 

The Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes is a remarkable 73-mile asphalt trail that traverses the Idaho panhandle between Mullan and Plummer. Its creation was the result of a unique partnership between the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Union Pacific Railroad, the United States Government, and the State of Idaho. The trail meanders through the historic Silver Valley, along the Coeur d’Alene River, past scenic Lake Coeur d’Alene, and through rolling farmlands to Plummer. Twenty developed trailheads provide entry points, and there are twenty scenic waysides along the route with tables for picnics or brief rest.

George S. Mickelson Trail—This is a 108-mile trail through South Dakota. The map has varied elevations and many great sites to enjoy! There are four tunnels (between Hill City and Rochford), 35 interpretative signs (great lessons in history), and more than 100 bridges.

The Katy State Trail is a 237-mile trail stretching across most of Missouri. Over half the Trail's length follows Lewis and Clark's path up the Missouri River, where you can ride beneath towering river bluffs while eagles circle overhead. After leaving the river, the Trail meanders through peaceful farmland and small-town America.

Wabash Trace Nature Trail — This trail is a converted railroad right-of-way running 63 miles through the scenic Southwest Iowa countryside.  It has 72 bridges.  It is close to home, being in Iowa.

Singe Day Trails

The Provo River Parkway trail is a 15.2-mile point-to-point trail near Provo, Utah. Generally considered a moderately challenging route with about 800 feet of climb.

The Grand Teton National Park Trail - This 7.8-mile point-to-point Trail near Moose, Wyoming, is generally considered an accessible route.  My son did this segment when he rode from Canada to Denver, and I drove as. a crew member.  It was spectacular!

The River Mountains Trail - The River Mountains Trail is approximately 34 miles long and surrounds the River Mountains, connecting Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Hoover Dam, Henderson, Boulder City, and the rest of the Las Vegas Valley.

The Heartland State Trail could be a multiple-day ride for an out-and-back!  It was one of the first rail-to-trail projects in the country. It is a 49-mile multiple-use trail between Park Rapids and Cass Lake. The Trail is located entirely on a level abandoned railroad grade, except for a four-mile segment north of Walker on sharply rolling terrain for snowmobilers.

Banks-Vernonia State Trail, the inaugural “rails-to-trails” trail in Oregon, traverses an abandoned railroad bed spanning 21 miles between Banks and Vernonia. The trail boasts notable features such as 13 bridges and panoramic vistas from the 733-foot-long, 80-foot-high Buxton Trestle, accessible to hikers and cyclists alike. A ground-level equestrian bypass gracefully crosses Mendenhall Creek. The trail’s southern terminus commences in Banks, a town of 1,900 nestled amidst agricultural operations. As it progresses northward, the trail meanders through farming lands and riparian areas before reaching the densely forested foothills of the Coast Range. The trail concludes in Vernonia, a town of 2,200 surrounded by private timberland and small farms.

Hugh S. Branyon Trail—The 28-mile path in Gulf State Park takes riders through nine different ecosystems, including coastal dunes, freshwater lakes, marshes, and maritime forests peppered with longleaf pines, palmettos, and moody oaks dripping in Spanish moss. The path crosses boardwalk bridges to a white sand beach and passes Lefty, the resident alligator's usual hangout, and the nests of two mating pairs of bald eagles.

I am not looking for mountain bike trails; rails to trails are my favorite.  Do you have any suggestions?

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Anonymous - Look up the Withlacoochee State Trail in Florida. 46 miles. I jog on it frequently. Send me a note if you ever get down. My blog is called How Far to the Barn. Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 12:48:27 PM CST

Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 12:48:27 PM CST

52 days

As I think about the next stage in my life, I admit there are some fears. 

I am apprehensive about the unknown. While the future is inherently uncertain, what concrete knowledge do I possess regarding retirement beyond its inevitable conclusion? Fear can instigate negative thoughts, such as “I will be unemployed, insignificant, and fade away.” However, I am confident that such sentiments will not characterize my retirement. Instead, it will be a period of enjoyment and fulfillment, free from the overwhelming stress of the toxic work environment I have endured for approximately five years. This will herald a new and promising future.

As young individuals contemplate their future, they often envision their aspirations. However, it is essential to recognize that the pursuit of dreams can lead to transformative changes. While change may evoke apprehension, it is an inevitable aspect of life. Consequently, it is more productive to focus on the potential outcomes rather than dwelling on the worst-case scenarios.

Over the past year, I have dedicated myself to introspection, exploring my aspirations, and identifying activities that resonate with my interests. This process has challenged my ingrained mindset, which has traditionally associated happiness with a specific stage of life. While it is true that life rarely unfolds as planned, particularly in certain aspects, the significance of the plan itself cannot be overstated.

I have consciously shifted my perspective from the binary concepts of “right” and “wrong.” The notion of “right” implies a singular solution, while everything else is deemed “wrong.” Instead, I now categorize things as “good” or “better” rather than adhering to the rigid dichotomy of “right.” This paradigm shift should foster a sense of joy when circumstances align with my expectations, rather than fostering regret for perceived imperfections.

Transitioning from full-time employment represents a significant mental shift, akin to embarking on a new educational journey, entering a new romantic relationship, becoming a parent, or commencing a new career. I have experienced this transition before, and it always elicited a sense of apprehension. However, I must acknowledge that it also presents an opportunity for personal reinvention.

I harbor apprehension about my limited knowledge in this complex subject matter and fear exposing my perceived ignorance. While these are natural emotions, I strive to convince myself that they are unnecessary. The apprehension stems from the potential loss of financial stability and the uncertainty associated with investment returns. Nevertheless, this decision is ultimately mine to make. I am adequately prepared for this step, as I am now 52 days away from the realization of my plan. Here is a photograph of me symbolically passing the baton to my successor, ensuring a seamless transition.

All you quiet dreamers, carry on!

North Carolina Thanksgiving

Shelley and I took different Thanksgiving paths this year. She visited her aging father in Lincoln, NE, while I visited my son in North Carolina. They love watching Husker football, but this year’s team has been challenging.

I arrived in NC on Tuesday morning. The rainy/misty weather made biking impossible. After the airport, we went grocery shopping and planned Thursday’s feast. This year, we’ll have at least four more guests, bringing the total to 14-16 adults and a child. My son’s neighbor hosted, so we brought a dish to share. It was a feast.

I made a Tater Tot hot dish, which was my favorite!  The recipe was simple.  Information at https://www.spendwithpennies.com/easy-tater-tot-hotdish/

I went on bike rides over the past three days: 27.55 miles on Wednesday, 20.16 miles on Thursday, and a shorter 13.32 miles today. I could feel it in my legs, but since I am on vacation, I get plenty of rest—although I am not sleeping well!

While I was here, I also took some pictures of my son, Kira, and the dog, LuLu. They are below.  

We're still three days away. Then, I'll be home to the siding contractor, who will be causing some disruption for about a week.

Carry on my friends, carry on!