One year ago today I got on the Southwest Chief train to New Mexico. Feeling nostalgic because I learned a lot of lessons that trip. Plus it’ll always be my first… I was scared silly and it shows in this picture I took just before the train departed.

It’s ironic that today I’m making arrangements for the coming years’ adventures. Right now it looks like the Southwest in March, Northeast (and Canada) in June or July, and the Northwest in the fall. I honestly am thrilled to say that this is my life. I’ve had many incarnations during this lifetime: daughter, mother, student, magazine publisher, and now, jubilant explorer. Feeling blessed. Thank you for joining me on this journey.