a ten-year snooty-versary

Ten years ago today, I celebrated an “independence day” of my own. I was a few weeks into my manatee care internship in Bradenton, FL, working with Snooty the manatee and his tankmates, two rescued manatees preparing to be released. That evening, I walked to a waterfront restaurant and dined out alone for the first time; figured out the tip and everything. I know that doesn’t sound like much, but…