a bittersweet departure from Energous

Today is a little bittersweet as I was laid off from Energous. I can't say I didn't see this coming because the tech industry has been hit hard by layoffs in the past several months. However, losing a job sucks no matter the cirumstance. Even though we are a unique company and don't have many competitors, the market is the deciding factor. Innovation does not always translate to success.

Despite the unfortunate turn of events, my two years at Energous couldn't have been better. I got to work with an awesome team and learned many useful things. Another great thing about Energous was the catered lunches. Food always brings people together, and the best part is we had a different menu each time. I'm aware that a free lunch is very small in the grand scheme of things, but can't say I'm not bummed.

One thing for sure is that I'll miss my co-workers. Tomas was a really cool guy and certainly knew how to keep everyone in high spirits. I'm also going to miss Allison as we had so many common interests, and that she was someone I really enjoyed talking to. She was very supportive when she found out I was losing my job. I made sure to give her a big hug before we parted ways.

Of course, job hunting is always going to be a challenge. I suspect it's going to take longer this time due to the current state of the economy. However, I'm not planning to rush into things because finding a job that fits is far more important than getting one as soon as possible. But wish me luck — I'm going to need it for sure. *fingers crossed*

Currently listening to: "Sweet Child O' Mine" by Guns N' Roses

first time at a restaurant since COVID-19

It has been another awesome weekend as we visited a "new" state park and went out to lunch for the first time in three years!

Dad took us to Mount Diablo State Park on Saturday as it is famous for its wildflowers. Mom says we've been here before, but that was so long ago that I can't even remember. Of note is that the road leading to the park is windy and doesn't have guardrails. It was quite a scary drive.

We arrived at the park to find that the area with the wildflowers was closed this season due to storm damage. It was also quite windy and chilly outside. The three of us decided not to go hiking and left after lunch in the car. As much as I hate to say this, Mount Diablo State Park wasn't as fun as we expected.

However, the highlight of the weekend was we got to eat at a restaurant for the first time in over three years. Our family friend Linda had recently moved to a gated community called Rossmoor and had invited us and the Hsuehs to visit her. Our group met at a restaurant there called Creekside Grille. The food was delicious and wasn't too expensive. Considering that we hadn't been to a restaurant since the pandemic, this was quite a refreshing experience.

All of us then headed to Linda's new home. Linda had bought a blueberry pie from Fatapple's to share. It was so good that some of us had two slices. I mostly played *RuneScape* on my laptop afterwards as there was no one else my age, but that didn't make the gathering any less enjoyable. :-)

Currently listening to: "Here and Now" by Steps