Turning the Page: From Family Business to My Own Path

Life has a way of throwing curveballs when you least expect them. After 26 years of dedication to my family’s business, I never thought I’d wake up one morning and make the decision to walk away. But sometimes, circumstances force you to take a hard look at where you are and where you want to be.

The breaking point came after an altercation at work—one that made me realize I couldn’t stay any longer. It wasn’t an easy choice. Leaving something that had been a part of my life for over two decades felt like stepping off a ledge without knowing if there was solid ground below. But in that moment, I knew I had no other choice.

However, I refused to let that moment define me. Instead of dwelling on what I lost, I focused on what I could build. The very next day, I took the leap and launched Chesapeake IT Services LLC.

Starting my own business wasn’t just about moving on; it was about taking control of my future. Technology has always been my passion—from the first computer I broke (and fixed) at age 10, to the countless hours helping friends, family, and teachers with their IT problems. Now, I get to do what I love on my own terms.

This transition hasn’t been easy, but I’ve never been more motivated. Challenges will come, but I know I’m on the right path. Walking away was hard, but building something new is exhilarating.

If you’ve ever faced a crossroads in life, I hope my story reminds you that sometimes, the best way forward is through change. Bet on yourself—you might just surprise yourself.

This year, my birthday weekend was one for the books! It all started on Friday night when Nicole and I attended a special catered dinner hosted by the organizers of Wings & Wheels. The highlight of the evening was listening to the captain of the USS Cole recount the harrowing events of the bombing, describing the incredible efforts the crew made to save the ship and minimize casualties. It was such a moving experience. To top off the night, I bid on—and won—a delightful wine and cheese basket during the auction.

Saturday was a day I had been eagerly anticipating. I got up bright and early to get myself and my Mustang over to the Wings & Wheels car show at Georgetown airport. By 8 AM, I was all set up and ready to enjoy the day. But the real thrill came at 11:30 AM when I climbed aboard a PT-19 WWII airplane, with a German pilot at the controls. For 45 exhilarating minutes, we soared over Rehoboth Beach, flew up the Delaware coastline, crossed Cape Henlopen State Park, and ventured over Prime Hook before heading back to the airport. It was my very first time flying in a non-commercial aircraft, and I can confidently say I’d do it again in a heartbeat!

Later in the afternoon, around 3:30 PM, the car show organizers began handing out trophies. To my surprise and excitement, my Mustang won 2nd place in the Millennial class! It was such a proud moment. After the show, Nicole and I celebrated by heading out to do some Halloween decoration shopping—a fun way to wrap up the day.

On Sunday morning, we continued with our Halloween prep by picking up pumpkins from Home Depot and grabbing some corn stalks from How Sweet It Is. That afternoon, the weekend festivities concluded with a fantastic dinner at The Red Roost in Whitehaven, MD, where all my friends gathered. We ate, drank, laughed, and made great memories before parting ways.

It was an absolutely wonderful weekend, filled with good company, exciting experiences, and plenty of fun!

Our Michigan adventure began on August 31, when we set off on a journey that would take us through miles of scenic roads, visits with friends and family, and some stunning lakeside views. After hours of driving, we arrived in Novi, MI, just in time to enjoy the holiday weekend. On the evening of September 1, we found ourselves by a lake, watching a breathtaking display of fireworks reflected in the water, a perfect way to kick off our trip.

We spent the next few days in Novi, catching up with friends and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. But on September 4, we packed up and headed north to visit Nicole’s brother, anticipating the scenic drives ahead.

The real adventure began the morning of September 5. We set out on a route that took us west of Grand Rapids, passing through charming towns and vast stretches of nature. The roads were peaceful, lined with lush trees that seemed to stretch forever. From there, we drove east toward our destination in Traverse City, where we had a waterfront room waiting for us at Hotel Indigo. The view from our room was nothing short of spectacular—watching the sun set over the water made for a perfect ending to each day we spent there.

After a few days of exploring Traverse City and soaking in the local sights, we headed back south on Saturday. Our next stop was Rochester Hills, where we picked up Nicole’s mom for the final leg of our journey. She was coming back with us to Salisbury to spend a week together, making this trip even more special.

Before making our way home, we made a stop in Pittsburgh on Saturday night for some rest. The next day, we completed the last stretch of our 2,000-mile journey, driving through a lot of different landscapes, making memories, and enjoying each other’s company. This trip was a mix of family, fun, and the freedom of the open road—one we won’t soon forget.

When My Morning Jacket announced One Big Holiday 2025 in Miramar Beach, FL, I knew right away that Nicole and I had to go. We’ve been to One Big Holiday before, so we already know just how incredible the experience is. There’s nothing quite like it—amazing music, the beach, and the energy of being surrounded by fellow fans who are just as passionate as we are.

Nicole and I talked about it as soon as the news dropped, and it was an easy decision. We’ve made some of our best memories at One Big Holiday, and there’s no doubt that 2025 is going to be just as fun, if not better. The vibe, the setting, the music—it all comes together in a way that makes it feel like a dream. We’re already counting down the days, imagining ourselves back in that atmosphere, soaking it all in.

This trip is going to be another amazing chapter in our shared love for music and adventure. We know what to expect, but that just makes it all the more exciting. We can’t wait to get down to Miramar Beach, enjoy some great music, and make new memories together.