September was one of those months that reminded me just how full life can be when you say yes to adventures, celebrate milestones with good people, and take leaps toward new commitments.

🎂 Almost 50 & Grateful

It was my birthday month! I’m officially almost 50, and honestly, I wasn’t planning to do anything special. But The Negronis had other plans! They organized an impromptu celebration that perfectly captured what this friend group means to me.

The thoughtfulness of their gifts really got me: a sweater for the upcoming winter (practical!), a muscle roller (they know me too well), and my favorite cheesecake. Now I’m feeling the pressure to up my gift-giving game!

As for birthday reflections? Nothing profound, really. Just deep gratitude for what I have – good health, amazing people in my life, and the freedom to keep exploring and growing.

🐋 St Andrews Day Trip

Alaine and I took a day trip, as well as an teammate from work, to St Andrews by the Sea for whale watching. Was it spectacular? Honestly, just okay, probably because we’ve actually swum with whales back in the Philippines, so the bar was set pretty high!

But here’s the thing: the trip was still wonderful. St Andrews is such a lovely, quaint town, and the real highlight was the conversations we had on the road. Sometimes the journey and the company matter more than the destination.

🚂 The Quebec City Adventure

The big September adventure: Alaine and I took a train from Moncton to Quebec City (via Ste-Foy) to attend my former teammate’s wedding. Almost 15 hours each way! The economy plus seats were okay, but yeah… not sure I want to do that again. Fun experience though – definitely one for the books.

We left Moncton on Wednesday, arrived Thursday, and immediately started exploring. Walking around Quebec City was absolutely beautiful but super tiring on the knees. The architecture and historic sites are stunning. I even enjoyed the Titanic museum, which was on Alaine’s must-visit list.

The wedding on Saturday at Manoir du Lac Delage was spectacular. The venue had splendid scenery, but the coolest moment? The groom playing the saxophone while the entourage walked down the aisle. How amazing is that? The people – even the ones I’d just met – were incredibly nice and friendly.

Here’s a fun detail: I actually only know the bride, not the groom. She was a teammate of mine way back in 2009, and her friends were shocked that former officemates would stay in touch this long. But that’s what good connections do, they last.

We spent Friday morning in Quebec City, headed to the wedding venue, then came back Sunday to explore more before catching the train Monday. We did all the touristy things – the red goblin door, Parc de la Chute-Montmorency, just strolling and soaking it all in.

⛳ Golf in the Cold

We managed to squeeze in a couple of rounds at the par 3 course this month. Made the rookie mistake of playing on an 8°C morning. Brrr… lesson learned! But hey, we’re committed to this golf journey, even if it means freezing our fingers off.

🚒 Big News: Application Submitted!

Remember the volunteer firefighter opportunity I mentioned last month? I did it. I sent in my application! Now I’m in waiting mode, but I’m excited about the possibility. This feels like the right next step in giving back to our community.

🩸 Steady Commitments

Still keeping up with my weekly blood plasma donations. It’s become such a regular part of my routine now, and I’m grateful to be able to contribute in this way.

🎬 Content Confession

I’ll be real with you. No Immigrant Chronicles episodes this month. YouTube channel? Not happening right now either. September was just too packed with life happening in real-time.

Which brings me to an important question…

💭 I Need Your Input

Here’s what I’m genuinely curious about: Are you interested in more Immigrant Chronicles content, or would you prefer I go back to Coach Rye topics (leadership, productivity, personal development, that kind of thing)?

I want to create content that actually serves or entertains you, so your feedback really matters here. What would be most valuable to you?

Also, while you’re at it – what’s keeping you busy these days? I genuinely want to know what’s happening in your world. Reply to this email and let me know. I read every single response, and your stories often inspire more than you realize.

🎯 Looking Ahead

October brings cooler weather (goodbye golf season, probably), hopefully some news on the firefighter application, and decisions about what content direction makes the most sense.

Thanks for being part of this journey with me. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or joined recently, your presence in my inbox community means the world.

More power to you,

Coach Rye

P.S. Seriously, hit reply and let me know: Immigrant Chronicles or Coach Rye content? And what’s new with you? I’m all ears! 👂