While I'm Dreaming Big Dreams

by: Angela Munoz

I have a dream of my future – a life where calm and devotion blend harmoniously, painting the canvas of each day with hues of accomplishment and contentment. This life finds its heart in the bonds of family, the pursuit of knowledge, the nurturing of relationships, and the simple joys that make each moment a masterpiece.

As the sun peeks over the horizon, I step into my role as a full-time professor of Information Technology, a title adorned with the accomplishment of "Dr. Munoz." With a heart open to learning and a mind eager to inspire, I step into the classroom with an air of professional warmth, a blend of approachability and expertise that makes me a favorite among students and colleagues alike. The rapport I share with my students isn't just built on the foundation of education; it's nurtured by the empathy and mentorship that shape their growth.

Amid the pages of research, I write for well-known publications, each word a brushstroke that adds to the evolving landscape of knowledge. My contributions to academia are not just a testament to my expertise, but a reflection of my commitment to learning as a lifelong journey. As I assist troubled students with guidance and compassion, I realize that my role extends beyond the confines of a classroom, extending a hand to those navigating the stormy seas of life.

Beside me stands my devoted husband, a partner who shares my dreams and aspirations. His garage door business is a testament to his dedication, a pursuit I actively support. Together, we embody the epitome of companionship – a unity of shared goals and unwavering support.

Boating trips and family adventures become the chapters of our lives that we spend with spontaniety and joy. We find ourselves surrounded by the gentle embrace of nature's wonders, as the tranquil waves cradle our boat and the setting sun paints the sky in hues of gold and orange. In the evenings, we retreat to our haven, a home that echoes with laughter and the aroma of herbs from our Mediterranean garden.

Our sanctuary near the university becomes a place where learning and leisure intertwine. The call of the classroom draws me in, both in person and virtually, enriching the lives of eager minds. My husband and I, united in our passion for life, plan family trips that become the tapestry of our shared memories.

But perhaps our most cherished moments are those when the day takes a deep breath and exhales into the evening. As the sun sets, casting its rosy glow over the horizon, we clink glasses filled with the richness of red wine. Our favorite music drifts through the air, intertwining with the gentle rustle of leaves in our Mediterranean garden. It is a symphony of life well-lived, a melody of love and fulfillment.

In my dreams, I find myself in St. Augustine, a haven near the beach where the sea breeze carries the promise of new horizons. Our Mediterranean garden flourishes, herbs and vegetables painting a vibrant picture against the backdrop of azure waters. Trellises and fountains stand as testaments to the beauty we've cultivated, and the sailboat, a vessel of adventure, calls us to explore the open waters in the summer's embrace.

This is the glimpse of my future that I hold dear – a life lived in harmony with my passions and dreams, anchored in love, enriched by knowledge, and adorned with the simple joys that make every day a celebration.