There are many places in Florida that I've strived to visit, some I look forward to for their beauty, some for their endless trails, and others for the sake of wonder, as to think, "what if." In this case, it would be the later of the options. From the moment I began my high school career, I remember debating my options, either I go up north to NYU, or across the U.S. to California in search of new horizons, but non the less I stayed in Orlando to attend my Alma Mater, the University of Central Florida. Yet, in that same decision, I also had the option to go to USF, and where this next trip took me, The University of Florida. This is not just where I got to live one of my lifes, "what if" moments, but more about meeting someone who is always up for a good time.
Kelly and I under the "DNA Bridge"
Justin, Miguel, Kelly, and I aka "cool guys" starting the night off!
We even did some reading with random books that were laying around town
Roadtrip sing alongs never hurt, right?
Meet Kelly, she's lived in Gainesville for quite some time and has found her little paradise amongst her friends and all of her rescued animals. Her uncanny ability to just go with the flow and care for others is what really drew me to her as I got to know her more. There was never a dull moment with her or her friends, we talked about environment issues, laughed at corny jokes, and even played a some games of charades (our team kicked butt). Even with us just knowing each other for 2 days, I felt as though I've known her for years. We have the same sense of direction in life we were just on a path to intersect until now. I am glad I was able to meet such a cool group of people and look forward to going back!
Kelly climbing up on the "French Fries" on the UF Campus
A little study Session with the famous UF clock tower behind me
Riding the ironic "Bull Gator" as a testament to my fellow UCF Knights
We were able to take a small trip on the UF campus for a bit, ok maybe like a whole day (lol) and explore the what it had to offer. I must say, even though the campus and city were dead due to the summer, its potential was definitely not lacking. With the college students setting up game systems outside to the runners not skipping a beat in the summer heat, or the hammocks set up in the trees, to the guitar players on the sidewalk, this campus had what I looked for in an University. There were so many things to do, and that was on its off season, I'm even debating getting my MBA, and I must say, UF seems like a real possibility...
Just hanging around on the trail
You know how many gators we had to run past to make it there... 0_o
A horse, and a bunch of horse shit...
Kelly and I enjoying the view at Payne Prairie
Catch me if you can Kelly!!!
Kelly's version of "my germs!"
Even amongst all the allure and glamour that UF had to offer, there was more than meets the eye in the city of Gainesville. Just a short bike ride out of campus, you find Paynes Prairie where you can bike, hike, and see the sights (or just animals that block your way on the trail). I wasn't expecting such an adventure so close to where I was staying. I must admit, this makes me feel like I am missing something in Orlando, where are the adventurous parts?? We ran past gators, strolled by wild horses, and did handstands until our arms got tired. I must say, even with Florida swamp heat beating down upon us, we never slowed down or complained. This is where I appreciate Kelly more as a host, but more so as a person. She didn't let little things like that get in her way of adventure, in fact it drove her passion that much more. She was able to hang with all my little challenges and curious exploration of the landscape.
Miguel, Justin, Mirialys, Oliver, Pedro, Kelly, and I at dinner
Miguel, Kelly and I finding our inner spirit animal
On my last night in Gainesville we took some time to go out and have some dinner together. Filled with laughs about the two days prior, and confusion surrounding missing plantains, it was definitely a great way to end the adventure. There were even a few games of charades and glasses home made wine that we enjoyed later. All in all, this was a great experience and an awesome way to be introduced to the city. The way I see it, it would have been easy to visit some of my college buddies up here and party, but whats the fun in partying all the time? For me, exploring new horizons with great people gives me more satisfaction than any night partying can ever do. Until next time guys!
Stay tuned to check out more posts as I continue my adventures, and check out the trailers to the small film I am making below. Use the hashtag #MadeOfUs, repost the video on your pages, and remember, it doesn't take much to be part of The Community, when someone helps you, make sure you pass it on.
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