As the sun sets and the days begin to cool, so too does my summer draw to a close. August was a relatively mellow month, marked by the highlights of Miami Spice and a quick trip back to SoCal. With the season winding down, it feels like the right time to reflect on the summer as a whole—its highs, its lows, and the unexpected moments in between. While my move to Miami was significant, the rest of the summer was relatively uneventful. Yet, this slower pace had its benefits, allowing me to rest, form good habits, and start planting roots in my new home. This August installment will serve as a final reflection on the summer before the whirlwind of travel begins again.
Moving to Miami was undoubtedly the most significant event of my summer, but beyond that, the season was quiet. I didn’t jet off to Miami and Hawaii like someone I know, much less travel to London and Paris like another. However, there’s a silver lining in this simplicity. The slower pace allowed me to focus on much-needed rest and the formation of positive habits, all while trying to establish a deeper connection to Miami. Despite the excitement of moving to a new city, the summer provided a chance to recharge and relax—a stark contrast to the chaotic weather and stifling heat of Miami summers.
Living in Miami has been an eye-opening experience. I’ve been fortunate to make a great connection here, one that has allowed me to see Miami in a way that few ever do. For legal reasons, I can’t delve into too many details about the people I’ve met or the experiences I’ve had, but suffice it to say, Miami has a unique energy. There’s a palpable “work hard, play hard” mentality fueled by the city’s many entrepreneurial and flashy spirits. It’s impossible not to think of Scarface and Tony Montana’s rags-to-riches story, set right here in Miami. Though I admire the drive and ambition I’ve seen, I’m committed to staying focused and faith-based as I venture into my personal business opportunities. While Miami is a fascinating place, I don’t see it as somewhere to raise a family. That’s why my eyes are set on familiar ground—Orange County, CA.
Fittingly, my summer wrapped up with a trip back to OC, the place that will always be “home” to me in the deepest sense. Traveling back to Orange County is especially meaningful since it’s where I grew up and where my family still resides. There’s something about catching flights and spending time in airport lounges that makes me feel more alive than sitting behind a desk all day, but nothing compares to the feeling of returning to SoCal. The weather, the vibes—everything about it is unmatched in my opinion. While a move back to California isn’t on the immediate horizon, I know a return is inevitable. It’s ironic that the two places I now call home—Miami and OC—are some of the most expensive places to live.
Given that August was relatively uneventful, I’m at a loss for a deep quote to sum it up. Instead, I’ll borrow words from one of the best philosophers of our time, Taylor Swift: “August slipped away into a moment in time.” Summer is over, and with it comes the promise of more travel and new ventures that will keep me on my toes. I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store and am determined to finish strong.