Lying Down on the Job?!

By Amy Oldham
August 28, 2017

Yes, that’s me lying on the sidewalk in the picture at the right. If you think it’s because I was tired or needed a nap, you’re wrong. Technically, I was lying down on the job, since this event occurred in the middle of Monday’s work day. But I assure you that I was wide awake—wide awake in wonder and awe of one of the most majestic sights I’ve ever seen.

On August 21, 2017, an eclipse swept across the entire United States. Most American’s lived within a one-day drive of the path of totality, but even those in the continental U.S. outside the totality swath could see a partial eclipse. This celestial event was once-in-a-lifetime for most Americans, as the last total solar eclipse occurred 99 years ago in this country. A few years before that (June 17, 1909), a total solar
Photo credit: Equinox Support's Kevin Cantrell captured this
great "diamond ring" shot during totality! eclipse occurred on the other side of the world, with totality visible in the Arctic ocean, Canada, Greenland, central Russia, and central Asia.

The total eclipse’s 71-mile-wide path stretched from Oregon to South Carolina. And, as the largest U.S. city in the path of totality, Nashville had PRIME viewing to watch the moon completely block the sun for around 2 and a half minutes. Tennesseans viewed a partial eclipse in the fall of 2014. Prior to the total eclipse of 2017, Nashvillians last viewed a total eclipse in 1478. There were some folks around here that didn’t think this event was a big deal, but the facts I read beforehand truly impressed me, and I highly anticipated experiencing totality.

The eclipse sensation captivated most of the country, having received ample coverage in the weeks leading up to the event. I’m certain most of you have also read and seen pictures after the fact. So perhaps you’re wondering why I’m writing a blog about it...Yes, the total eclipse was SPECTACULAR. But almost as awesome was getting to experience this event with my husband and my Equinox family. Byron and Wayne provided lunch for the entire office, gave us all the freedom to go in and out for part or all the event, and allowed many employees to stay home with their families (the public-school district shut down for the event). Byron and Wayne founded Equinox Information Systems to create a great work environment. Thirty-one years later, they are still doing their part to maintain that mission. This “fun in the sun” event was just one more example of their dedication to taking care of those of us who work here each day.

About the Author

Amy Oldham is in Corporate Communications at Equinox Information Systems, where she creates and maintains the company’s technical documentation and all other customer-facing publications. Amy is also responsible for the company’s newsletter, email campaigns, press releases, and social media presence. When not writing, Amy enjoys spending time with her family, playing tennis, attending Dave Matthews Band concerts, and swimming.
To learn more about Equinox, its products, and staff, visit www.equinoxis.com or call (615) 612-1200.