My life recently freed up from some of the usual restrictions. With my lease ending in October, I decided there’s nothing keeping me from exploring: My children are grown, I don’t have any pets, no romantic entanglements keeping me tethered…it is time for an adventure. But great ideas come in spurts and evolve as they grow. So this one has, as well.

First came the idea to travel. I decided I would purchase a 45-day Amtrak pass and travel the warmer States during the bitter winter months of Kansas. I publish Evolving Magazine, a monthly publication for the past six years. I realized most of my work is via email or phone, so I could easily travel and work with the train as my virtual office. I’m also in the process of finishing my second book, “The Business of Writing,” and could put the finishing touches on it during my travels.

So, the idea entrenched, of course new options started to present themselves. I picked up a copy of Timothy Ferriss’ The Four Hour Workweek. Get a copy. It will inspire you to greater visions.

Telling my mom about the idea, she says, “When we backpacked through Europe, Europe by Rail was my bible! You should write a guide book.” Well, I hadn’t thought of that, but my dear mother placed that thought into my mind and it began to grow. I checked and USA by Rail already exists. But there isn’t A Woman’s Guide to the USA by Rail. And that’s what I will write.

I plan to take off January 5, 2015 for 45 days and take two additional 45-day trips next year. Using the train as my office, I will finish my writing book (it’s due to the publisher March 1), handle daily operations of Evolving Magazine as well as be on the lookout for opportunities to start Evolving in other cities, and research (and shoot videos) for the woman’s travel guide.

Stay tuned and join me on the journey. I’ll post updates as I prepare for the trip and then post regularly while traveling. 133 days until departure!