Two things.

First: Our family has been traveling for months now. We've been in 350 square feet and have seen and experienced some pretty amazing things. This morning we were in a dense forest just north of Orlando, and this afternoon our back window is the Atlantic ocean. We've faced all sorts of interesting challenges, and have overcome every single one.

When we sold the townhouse in The Cedars, the reactions were quite varied. Everything from "350 what?" to "That's my dream! I've always wanted to do that!" to "I thought you loved Dallas!"

If you've known me for more than 10 minutes, you'll know that my history with Dallas starts in 1989. I've lived in the Dallas area for 20 of the past nearing 30 years. If anywhere is "home," it's Dallas.

Our Epic Mini Life journey set off with the mission to travel until we were done, then build a new home, by hand... likely somewhere within a two hour radius of Disney World.

Just as we never expected to be sharing 350 square feet among three adult sized people and two 50lb dogs, the idea of *potentially* returning to Dallas wasn't really on anyone's radar.

This brings me to number two of the two things:

I received an email from the City of Dallas today, with the subject: "Application received by City of Dallas."

It continues: "Your application has been received by City of Dallas for the Chief Innovation Officer position..."

Heather and I have mentioned a few things in passing that would provide all of the reasons to interrupt our trajectory and return us to Dallas. One that was never on the radar, but certainly qualifies, is the newly created position of Chief Innovation Officer for the City of Dallas.

I worked pretty hard with Sarah building things for several years in the DFW startup community. All but a few of those things still exist today though all are under new management - a testament to the community. The foundation laid along with incredible and selfless individuals in the community (hello Trey) makes it an ever-evolving organic entity of its own. As it should be.

The idea of a Chief Innovation Officer at the City of Dallas is something we've been talking about since 2013. While I'm sure it's not unique, it's something I've wanted to do for years. When the opportunity presented itself, I had to seize the opportunity. This my home. Dallas is home.

Many wonderful people will apply for this position, and I wish all of them the very best. I think this time is different, and with the new leadership in the City Manager's office, the correct choice will be made.

So there you have it. Thank you to everyone that's tagged me, notified me, or forwarded the position. Your support played a major role in my decision to apply for the position. Well, that, and it'll be one heck of an amazing opportunity to create a culture of innovation in the public sector. :)

Feel free to drop a note to the City Manager's office in support if you'd like...  It's not required, but it may help! :)

Thank you all for being here!