There's No Place Like Oz

Much to the chagrin of many of my friends, I am a story teller. I rarely give the Cliffs Notes version response to any question. Instead, I provide the back story, side stories, and all of the little tidbits to fill in the gaps along the way.

When in full swing, I’m sure my “thinking out loud” and processing (i.e., rambling) annoys most folks. There are a precious few who say they love to hear me talk. That I have fun stories to share. Bless you.

As much as I like (need?) to make meaning of things by talking about them, I also love to write. Outside of academic papers, I’ve rarely written for other people. The little journaling or blogging I’ve done has been primarily for me to capture those back, side, and random stories to remember, revisit, and relive later. I only had a couple of loyal readers of my old blog (i.e., mom, Dennis, and Gunther), but that didn’t keep me from faithfully writing about each international trip I’ve taken. Though that site is still out there, it’s time for a new, fresh start.

So what’s my purpose and motivation for continuing to write about my travels?

• Primarily, for me to have a written record of this new chapter of my life. I’ve daydreamed about it for so long that it’s completely surreal it’s only weeks away. Writing helps organize my thoughts, process the roller coaster of emotions I’ve been feeling (and will continue to experience), and serve as something I can refer to and reflect upon later.
• To share my experiences with friends and family back home who I will miss dearly and who actually asked if there would be a blog — and would I please share it with them. Again, bless you!
• To connect with others who travel and those that aspire to do so. For years I’ve read the adventures of other people, and the cumulative effect of all of that reading was the inspiration and knowledge I needed to embark on one of my own.

I’m doing this for me, and I hope you enjoy it too 🙂