Getting Started

New Year's Resolution for 2011 - find a way to chronicle my travel exploits.  Often told that I always come back from a trip with a story to share, I decided to embark on this venture and share my adventures, views and finds with anyone who is interested.  I like to think that I have a unique approach to travel; namely, I do as much as I can to explore the area.

For years I have been working my way across the country, leveraging work trips to see regions that would not have been as easily accessible.  Through work's temporary duty locations, I have been able to  explore areas in the deep south and the mid-west.  Growing up on the east coast, it was natural to explore the I-95 corridor.  As friends have moved, I have been able to explore areas on the west coast.

Now - look at my map!!!  I have a big gapping hole around the Great Lakes region.  (Well that, a few stragglers and Hawaii.)  My goal is to start coloring that area of my map.  One of the easiest ways to start that process would be to finally get to Ohio.  I have been as close as Pittsburg, Pennsylvania and Lexington, Kentucky, but never crossed into Ohio!  Technically it is driveable from the DC area, but United often has affordable flights... so watch out Ohio, I am tackling you this year.

There are plenty of other locations in states that I have already visited that will make me go back.  My travel bug moves beyond the states... I want to see the major national parks, the cities and the unique manmade structures/monuments.   My travel itch is not just about the map but about the locations (I am a frustrated photographer at heart).

With these travels, I have a weird wish to see some of those strange things that we all laugh at but stop at when in the area... those eclectic sites... those things that you would not see but for being in the area.  Some people call them tourist traps, some people call them Americana, others call it just plain fun.  So, if I am in an area and there is a giant fiberglass donut (LA), elephant (NJ), neon graveyard (Vegas), or bug museum (Colorado Springs), I am there.

My goal with this blog is to share my stories.  I will tell you where I went, what I did, what I saw and maybe drop a few hints about local artisans and galleries, local eateries and restaurants.  My trips often mix the city and the "country."  Museums and galleries, scenic drives and hiking, history and ghost tours... I want it all.  And along the way, I want to find a piece of local jewelry to remind me of all the fun (who needs a giant shot glass collection?)

So, I ask you to join me on my adventures as I complete my map!  I hope that I make you smile.  May this spark your inner travel bug as well.