Joe McWilliams

I decided to take an adventure this weekend and go to a small island outside Portland called Peaks Island. The port is just down the street and it's only 5 bucks for a 20 minute ferry ride. It was so beautiful and a nice mini getaway. Riding the ferry Getting off the ferry A nice view on the walk around the island I really liked this cliff The island had some really amazing seaside houses The nature trail was really cool Such a nice place to collect one's thoughts The ferry coming for the return journey

Maine is still treating me well. The weather has been great. It just started snowing again this morning for the first time in a while. The fresh powder of white snow makes the city look so beautiful! So far I am loving my new job. It's plenty challenging and the company is great. All of the developers, including myself, moved downstairs last week. It's a cool space on the street level of downtown portland. A long view of the new downstairs office are I sit at the seat on the left next to "Jesus" Meeting/Lounge area The rest of the office is upstairs in a more traditional setting. Entrance to the upstairs office The more "traditional" office arrangement I've also had a chance to try and cook some of the fresh seafood. Not as much as I had hoped but there is still time. Fresh Atlantic Salmon

I'm finishing up my second week at my new job today. So far it's great! I found a furnished apartment about a mile away that is an easy walk (this morning was the hardest in the rain). My apartment My messy apartment The area I'm living in is great. There is so many cool places and live music right around the corner. I still have so much to explore!

One month after graduation I found myself in Portland, ME about to start my adult life. I flew up here to live with some friends while I get on my own feet and sign a lease. So far I'm loving the area. Portland is a beautiful city and I can't wait to explore it more. The water tastes like it's bottled (which is a nice change from Lubbock water) and comes out cold! One of the many small things I have been pleased with. Downtown Portland with my Office on the left Tomorrow I start my first day at  Cashstar , a company that facilitates giftcards for major companies like Home Depot and Gap. I'll be working as a System Administrator there. It was hard to say goodbye to Texas and all the people I love and care about there. I wouldn't be where I am without them but Maine is where my life is taking me and I'm so excited about the new beginning. Saying goodbye to our dog, Cooper The weather has been cold and snowy, a stark contrast from what I knew in T...