Lesson learned: Mobile is a beautiful city

I'm back in Tally and back to work on Monday. It's been a craaazzy May. I started off with good intentions with my May Day resolutions, then life happened. I was deployed for two weeks to Mobile, Alabama; joining a team of Floridians representing the state's interests in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill response. I worked with people from all over the states and even other countries and from many disciplines. I learned more about oil and oil cleanup than I hope I ever have to use again. It was a valuable work experience that made me appreciate the fundamentals of all hazards emergency management even more.

The Port of Mobile made for an enjoyable and interesting backdrop despite the unfortunate event that brought me to Alabama. Tugboats and barges drifted past the convention center where the command post was located, grounding me whenever I began to feel overwhelmed by the impact and significance of the oil spill. I loved the city or at least the little I got to see of it. Mobile reminded me of Richmond, Virginia with an industrial influence and the southern charm. The architecture downtown was a bit rundown but beautiful with balconies and small parks dotted throughout. I would love to go back to Mobile and explore it more on my own time.