Last updated Nov 12, 2018 | First published on Sep 2, 2015 | Returning Home
“I want your life.” Many people think that vagabonding is all frills and thrills. I’m often told, “you’re so lucky!” But the reality is that I earn my keep by punctuating long periods of time – often behind a laptop – with brief moments of excitement, often in the...
Last updated Nov 18, 2018 | First published on Dec 22, 2013 | Returning Home
I was supposed to tell you about motorbiking all over the hilly interior of Siquijor Island in the Philippines, clacking through volcano gears on a quest. How that after much effort, I located one of the famous “witch doctors” there. And how I negotiated...
Last updated Jun 24, 2021 | First published on Dec 29, 2011 | Returning Home
Thump! The landing gear beneath me hit the mark in Louisville, where some of my oldest friends were gathered for a graduation party. Somewhere behind the sweet taste of jet fuel, I could smell Kentucky in the icy distance as I deplaned. My red eyes told of more fun...
Last updated Nov 27, 2018 | First published on Dec 15, 2009 | Colombia, Returning Home
The crispy Bogota air had the rich aroma of brewing coffee and the lingering spice of a new day full of possibilities. Scrappy the super bird woke up early feeling refreshed and had a delicious breakfast of leftover grasshopper parts. Being careful not to overeat, he...
Last updated Jul 31, 2021 | First published on Sep 2, 2009 | Returning Home
“Mr. Rodgers, please empty your pockets and contents of your bags onto this table.” I watched as the armed US Customs officer unceremoniously started yanking things out of my daybag in front of me. The groggy effects of my trans-global flight quickly wore...
Last updated Mar 24, 2020 | First published on Dec 23, 2008 | Returning Home
In 1997, I remember frantically stuffing everything I owned into two large duffel bags with my name stenciled on the sides. I quickly laced up my combat boots and walked out into the biting Oklahoma wind. I had just finished 16 weeks of hellish training as an...
