What an amazingly challenging and fun four years have passed for the both of us here in Richmond, Virginia. In 2004 we got off to a crazy start, went through some times that would break marriages that weren’t as strong. We had [...]]]> My wife, Ashley Mortenson, will graduate from VCU Medical College on May 16th.

What an amazingly challenging and fun four years have passed for the both of us here in Richmond, Virginia. In 2004 we got off to a crazy start, went through some times that would break marriages that weren’t as strong. We had some sorry days, but kept talking and listening and have grown a lot. Medical school is not kind to married couples, but I think if a marriage doesn’t survive med school then there are probably a number of other events that would extinguish it – meaning medical school doesn’t need to be blamed for ending anyone’s marriage, but I digress.

I stayed with Ashley because I see the best in her and feel that she brings out the best in me. As Jack Nicholson said to Helen Hunt in As Good as It Gets, “[She] make[s] me want to be a better man.” I also see in her absolute commitment to her chosen field and to the people who she will serve. Take a look at this beautiful essay. I’m very fortunate to have this gal in my life.

And now, word-traveled Southerner that I am (I’ve lived all around the world, but always in the South – southern Japan (Okinawa), south Spain, south Germany, Florida), my lovely wife is dragging me to Newark, New Jersey. Granted she didn’t plan it that way, but she is really good at pulling me out of my comfort zone when she needs to do so.

So, we are heading north after all these years. I’m excited, nervous, anxious, reluctant-one-minute ready-to-go-tomorrow the next. I know that there will be bigger challenges, but I believe I said in a recent email to friends “obstacles are opportunities for the optimistic.” So, I am remaining optimistic. We’re heading into more amazing experiences. I’ll be sure to post here frequently so you can read all about them.

Stay tuned.