Europe Explained (Venice, Italy Part II)

2024 reflections. 

My life is not perfect. 

It’s never going to be, and it’s not supposed to be. 

I could share my troubles, the things that have kept me up at night and caused me stress, but when put in the proper context, I have nothing to complain about. 

So I’ll focus on gratitude, and talk about the people who have enriched my life in 2024, and likely for many years prior:

Graham Super:

Thank you for accompanying me to Italy, the countless conversations that have afforded me new perspectives, being a role model (even though you’re my younger brother), and showing patience as I struggle to define my relationship with spirituality. 

Mason Riedesel:

Our friendship extends back over a decade now, and I appreciate all the times you have called me on my bullshit and not let me get away with poor behavior.

Caleb Carlson:

Thank you for helping me buy a property, all while answering thousands of questions that probably annoyed the hell out of you.  

Sam LaCrosse:

You give me hope that American society can get back to its traditional values and once again become a culture that’s rooted in the preservation of the collective, as opposed to one that is self-serving and devoid of its moral compass. 

Tiffany Daly:

I don’t think you ever have a bad day (even though you do), and that’s because your positivity radiates throughout every interaction we have. Oh, and thank you for educating me about the nuances of my insurance policy. 

Guy Grussing:

Tip of the cap to you good sir for taking a chance on me back in 2021 when I didn’t know much about sales, roofing, or how to treat customers like family. It’s a privilege to be an extension of your company. 

Scott Borschke:

Caleb Carlson helped me find the condo of my DREAMS, but you went above and beyond to ensure that we could get financing, your extensive efforts an indictment on not only how superb you are at your job, but also how willing you are to assist your clients. Also helps that you can knock down corner 3s effectively! 

Davis Narey:

As I ramped up video production in 2024, you made every shoot fun and allowed me to focus on what I do well: asking questions. I’m excited to see how the content continues to evolve in 2025. 

Max Golovastikov:

For years, your thumbnails have enticed people to click on my articles. More impressively, your professionalism is outstanding. You never miss deadlines and the only time I ask for edits is when I misspell someone’s name! 

Rueben Hernandez: 

Perhaps the most selfless guy I know, you showed me a side of Los Angeles that wasn’t filled with turmoil and sadness. Please don’t ever lose the genuine optimism you approach life with, or your ability to find quality steakhouses. 

Casey Nordbak:

We no longer are jetting around the world or philosophizing for hours while throwing down cheeseburgers and Mala Mules, but I’ll never forget the influence you had on me, and how you got me to see potential I didn’t even know I had. 

Dad:

I’m sure I’ve caused your blood pressure to rise on more than seventy-eight occasions, what with my idiotic choices and overall lack of immaturity for most of my twenties, but I promise I’m trying, and if I’m lucky enough to one day give my family half the joy and opportunities you have given ours, I will consider my life a success. 

Mom:

Yes, the food I eat is bland, and often the movies I choose for us to watch aren’t your preferred genre, but we still find ways to laugh at the same things, so maybe one of these days I will pick a show that we both can enjoy! 

If I didn’t include you in this list, it doesn’t mean your impact on my life wasn’t sizable.

Thank you again for all who supported this platform in 2024. 

I’ll do my best to continue to provide value in 2025 and beyond. QS

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