The other day I was helping research train journeys from London to other cities of Europe and detailing my own experiences at St. Pancras, Paris Nord, Amsterdam Central, and other stations in Edinburgh and Brussels. When the conversation ended, I was a wash in memories of places and spaces I could never have imagined myself. And then I grinned, because I’m still discovering new destinations.
I’m not a travel snob when it comes to locales, because everywhere I go is because that’s some place I want to visit. It doesn’t matter if others turn up their noses or give me quizzical looks. I go where my heart and soul desire, and I find fulfillment and wonder in some so-called unlikely places.
When I’m asked about my travel “stats,” I often hesitate before responding because I have to consider who’s asking and what’s their reason. I don’t want to come across as a braggart or anything, which is why it depends on the source. If it’s someone whose idea of a vacation is based on the opinions of others, I might change the subject because my details and experiences aren’t enough to jolt them from the box they reside in.
For the record, I’ve visited all fifty states, and Maine, Alaska, Vermont, Montana, South
Carolina, South Dakota, Oregon, Michigan, Missouri, and Arkansas are vastly underrated and underappreciated. Florida is the most overrated, but don’t get me started. Lol. I’ve visited lighthouses, wineries, breweries, stadiums, beaches, speakeasies, waterfalls, delis, bookstores, historical places, glaciers, and there are still more adventures ahead, “God-willing and da’ creek don’t rise.”
I’ve visited twenty-four other countries and there are at least two more on the schedule for this year. I’m excited and have to calm myself down because the anticipation is everything. But there are other adventures on the horizon which will keep me busy and engaged. I’m referring to conferences, reunions, and the joy of new relationships and friendships.
When I talk about my ever-expanding world, I mean all of it. I’m driven by my daydreams, and I’m committed to the fulfillment of them. I’m looking forward to my next steps as an author, because I have taken tremendous strides in recent years. I’m still blown away that folks read my books, listen to my presentations, and let me perform their audiobooks. I’m a member of The Bumbershoots Writers Society, as well as a member of the Western Writers of America. Those are great achievements, and I’m proud of them, but there’s even more ahead as I gratefully and humbly embark on new quests, spiritually, emotionally, geographically, and financially.
It’s all connected as far as I’m concerned, and the symmetry makes sense. My world is growing as am I, and I hope those watching find inspiration in my expanding life. Stay tuned.
