NADDI MD Training Experience
Happy Monday!
This weekend was ultimately uneventful, but my Friday more than made up for it. I was scheduled to speak at the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators (NADDI) Maryland training session about my experience with addiction and recovery. I woke up at 4:45 am and headed to the airport. Ouch.
I forgot what dressing like an adult was like. Most of my days are spent in exercise clothes or at home writing since I no longer work in an office setting. First, I had to make sure that I actually owned real clothes. Then I had to remember how to wear them.
I arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare. My habit of arriving very early to things paid off when I was greeted by this security line. I don’t even think the picture got all of it.
I flew back to MD where I was picked up by a super nice detective and driven to Annapolis, which was about 30 min away. It was nice being back in MD after growing up there for over 15 years. It was also nice to be picked up by a police officer who didn’t then take me to jail.
I arrived around 10:30 am and was able to catch the last part of Special Agent Matt Lowry’s own addiction story.
Lunch was delicious, but I was more mesmerized by the dessert table. There were also plates of chocolate cake that I couldn’t fit into the picture. I was so overwhelmed that I didn’t eat any of them.
At 1 pm I took the stage to tell my story and also open the floor up to Q & A. I spoke to an audience of law enforcement agents, healthcare professionals, and various regulatory agencies. I love being able to talk about my own experiences and answer questions that may come up from people who are looking for a better understanding.
I grabbed a photo-op with Lt. Gov. Boyd Rutherford.
(source)
Then I grabbed one with my detective before I headed into the airport. Everyone was incredibly nice and I’m looking forward to speaking at the NADDI national training in November.
You know you’re in MD when…
I grabbed dinner at BGR because it is one of my favorite burger places. I first discovered it in VA and was so happy to find it at the airport.
I also LOVE their chocolate chip cookies, which are basically the size of my head. I settled in with my decaf espresso, chocolate, and a good book until my flight left.
I landed around 8:30 pm and immediately changed into shoes that are way more appropriate for me. My adult day was over.
Since I am also headed to the NADDI national training in Orlando in November, I am trying to figure out if Neil and I should just make a trip of it and go to Disney World since obviously I have to balance out my time being an adult.
I had a great time and it is such a rewarding experience to be able to give back after all the taking and damage that happened in the past.
Saturday and Sunday involved a lot of movies, candy, and cleaning. Neil and Matt also collaborated and combined all the Blue Apron ingredients to make a random assortment of appetizers and main dishes like they did last weekend. I’m liking this new way to experience Blue Apron.
Tonight I am headed to the Nike+ Training Club here in Chicago for a workout. I think that’s about due…
Questions:
- What did you do this weekend?
- Do you follow recipes or get creative in the kitchen?
- What was the last workout you did?
Adulting is freaking hard, but I’m so glad that your excursion went well–can’t wait to hear about it! And you know I don’t like to be told what to do and how to do it (re recipes)
Susie @ SuzLyfe recently posted…Weekend Recap! Feeling, Eating, LIVING
But it’s so comfortable that way!
I admire you for being open to talking about your story! Glad the trip went well 🙂 anndddd, I don’t know HOW you refrained from that dessert table! *drool*. Happy Monday!
Jess @hellotofit recently posted…Monday motivation – be a brave risk taker
I don’t know how I did either! I am glad though bc cake + giant cookie would have put me into a coma
Auuuggghhhhhhhh that security line!! How long did it take you to get through it? I almost always fly in/out of O’Hare, but in October I have an earlyish (8:25) flight out of Midway and I am now terrified about how early I’m going to have to get up not only just to get there, but to account for the line at security. Maybe there won’t be as many people traveling on a Wednesday in late October…? One can hope.
Bethany @ Accidental Intentions recently posted…Chicago Marathon Training Week 9
I actually got through pretty quickly. I think they were doing a shift change? I have never seen it like that ever so hopefully it was a fluke.
That’s sounds like such an amazing experience, Erin! Good for you! I also have a hard time when I actually have to dress like an adult. I spend 98% of my life in lycra — it’s kinda great, but also sometimes I feel like a getting a little dressed up is good for the soul. I’m running a boot camp on Tuesdays now so I went through my routine for tomorrow. I think I may kick my own ass, since I totally slacked off this weekend!
Erin recently posted…Edinburgh Delights
I do like dressing up sometimes so it was fun. Good luck w your bootcamp! How did you get that set up?
I’m not going to lie….that comment about riding with a cop and NOT going to jail made me laugh out loud. You’re hysterical. It’s so cool that you have come out on the other side so much to the point that they are paying for you to share your story. That’s a testament to your strength and fortitude through that dark time in your life. Stunning in green, by the way! Disneyworld is a MUST! If only for the food 🙂
Lauren @ ihadabiglunch recently posted…Guess who’s back!!
Green is my jam. Yes, I think Disneyworld would be a good addition to my life.
Sounds like a great experience! And yes, go do Disney!
Lauren recently posted…Weekend Updates featuring City Sports Baltimore, Blogger Brunch, and Minor Training Snags
Yesss I like that everyone is telling me to go
What a wonderful experience.
My vote is to forgo Disney and hit up Harry Potter. Only because that’s how I roll when I’m in Orlando 😉
Ange @ Cowgirl Runs recently posted…Marathon Training Recap (week 3)
Oh yeah HP would be awesome!
I say YES! Make a trip of it 🙂 There are so many fun things to do in Orlando! And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, Islands of Adventure is a must!
Pragati // Simple Medicine recently posted…Chickpea + Spinach Fritters
I definitely am. Ok, I will come to you for my Orlando tips 🙂