I have enjoyed a wonderful summer after retiring from the US Army after 23 years of service.  My last official day is September 30th, but with the vacation time I had saved up, my last working day was July 11th.  So far this summer, I have camped and fished, went on a few motorcycle rides, and mostly tried to relax some and spend some time with the kids.  Now that the summer will soon be over, the time has come to start a new and exciting career which I am really looking forward to doing.  I have applied to a lot of different job openings, and have gone to a few interviews as well.  I am still awaiting to hear a definite word on a couple of places, but for the most part I believe that I have narrowed down my choice and the upcoming opportunity. 

Although the military has been a huge part of my life which I know I will miss in many aspects,  I am really excited about the return to the civilian lifestyle and the wonderful things that I have to look forward to.  I hope to find a fulfilling career with plenty of opportunities to excel and prosper.  I know it will not be easy starting over again, being the "new guy" again, having to start at the bottom of the ladder and work my way up to the top, but I am looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead and achieving success in my professional and personal lives.