After five straight months of obligation to being on a Naval base I was officially separated on July 13th. Imagine how comforted I was to start my new life on Friday the 13th… A female solo trip was just what I needed to start my new life. After booking my Airbnb, I hit the road for the next great adventure.
My 41st State:
Maine is the 23rd state in the union and the 41st state in completing my quest of seeing all 50 states. I stopped in Portland and spent two days in Augusta. If you are going to travel to Maine I suggest you head up to the Northern Coastal parts, Portland, or head towards the mountains near New Hampshire. Bruh, seriously, skip Augusta. I have been to a lot of capital cities and there is very little going on in Augusta. Go to Augusta only if you want to see a town hall and other government buildings. It’s bad when you look up what to do in a town and almost all the suggestions tell you to go to the next town over or drive to Portland.
What I learned:
With all that being said I left with one thing being reiterated. Small towns are a great place to start over. I felt the same way when I was in Missoula, Montana (Fun fact.. Montana is the 41st state in the union). They are clean, the people are nice, there are a bunch of “mom and pop” type shops so it is a break from chain restaurants, brewery galore, live music by people who don’t have enough criticism to realize they aren’t that great but they are happy and living their best lives so it is somewhat enjoyable, and overall just a nice change of pace.
Everyday that I wake up I try to be kind to myself. I try to remember that mistakes that I made are not the end of the story. At least it doesn’t have to be the end of the story. There is always a chance to make a different decision instead of allowing depression to creep in. So while in Maine I made that choice. I spent one day in bed and rested by body after getting battered in the officer program and the second day I got up. I went and had a lovely meal (that truthfully needed hot sauce) #blackpeopleproblems and for one day I won against my depression. Small victories are still victories.
Portland:
The Holy Donut: It was alright, I think I am used to more sugary donuts and these are more specialty and were a bit like muffins.
Maine Squeeze Juice Cafe: Not bad at all. I actually find it better than places like smoothie king. Unique combinations.
Augusta:
The Liberal Cup: Super affordable with a dope chocolate cake. I had a nice glass of wine and a fish sandwich (needed hot sauce).
