Two days ago, I drove from Biloxi to Atlanta. This time, instead of feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, I kept thinking about how cool it is that I’m driving around the whole country. I’ve only driven through the Southeast and it’ll be fun to see all the different landscapes the US has to offer.

In Atlanta, I’m staying with my mom’s cousin, Marion, and her family. We kept trying to figure out what our relationship is and found a chart that told us that she’s my first cousin once removed. (Tez, I know you taught me all the relationship stuff a few years ago, but I had completely forgotten all of it. I did have a feeling that there was a once removed involved, so don’t be completely disappointed in me.) That makes Marion’s daughter my second cousin. And Marion is my niece’s first cousin twice removed. It’s all very confusing.

Yesterday, Marion and Marcia, my great aunt (not removed), took me to Stone Mountain. We took the cable car to the top, saw a cool but controversial carving, and enjoyed the nice view. We also went to the Civil and Human Rights Museum. Every time I tried to pay for something, Marion would tell me that I couldn’t pay because I’m an unemployed vagabond living out of my car. She’s not wrong, so I really couldn’t argue with her.

This morning, I went to the YMCA with Marcia to play pickleball. It was my first time playing and it was a great experience. The people who were there are mostly retired and are so kind! I didn’t win any games, but I had a lot of fun and I learned that I’m not as bad at pickeball as I thought I would be.

In the afternoon, I went to the aquarium with Micol, a friend from high school. We hadn’t seen each other in 8 years! It was really nice to catch up and meet her two kids. I loved the aquarium! It was big and a lot of fun, especially with the kids looking in wonder at all the animals.

The day ended with dinner and ice cream with the family. Atlanta has been wonderful! I’m really glad I got to spend time with this side of the family. I always see them as part of larger gatherings with extended family. In this visit, I was able to get to know them better. I will definitely be coming back to Atlanta!