Tag: trip

April 17, 2019 – Turrialba, Costa Rica

“Whenever you go to a place there’s something magical about learning the process,” Gabriela states as I listen intently. “Not just consuming. Learning how it grows, how does it affect the land, how does it affect your life? …

April 14, 2019 – San Francisco, California

“On belay.” I confirm with Tara to ensure that she has set up the belay. “Belay on,” she responds. She works at a climbing gym in the city and offered to treat my cousin Kelsey and I to …

March 17, 2019 – South Lake Tahoe, California

Mobile status: Engaged. As I’m walking downtown with my friend Melissa, I’m reminded how good it feels to have everything I own back in my car and ready to move on. Though I’ll be here for another month, …

July 25, 2018 – Mammoth Lakes, California

…And in the blink of an eye, our time is up. But we made every minute count. This year’s “cousin trip” locales included: -Downtown San Francisco -Sequoia National Park -Tioga Road (Avoiding Yosemite Valley due to fire closures) …

July 10, 2018 – Petaluma, California

Thus begins the depressive slide into normality. Living with family, working a cush job, spoiling myself with television and increased alcohol consumption. Not for a lack of trying: I’ve sent messages to hosts listed in the Petaluma area …

June 15, 2018 – Sausalito, California

“Oh, shi…” Surprise and instinct wash over me as I tumble into the bay from Jeff’s kayak. It’s cold. My clothes are like anchors. I quickly glance around to evaluate my surroundings and locate the things I had …

April 22, 2018 – Sierra Foothills, California

And like that, I’m starting year four. [After an epic road trip from Iowa to California.] This place is beautiful. My host (Meibao) lives in paradise – surrounded by a pond, various mountains and forests, numerous pastures, and …

March 12, 2017 – Big Sky, Montana

It took three months, but I’m finally up here. No more bus rides. No more tolerating disrespectful, inconsiderate passengers. I can walk to work in ten minutes. Instead, I’ll be tolerating disrespectful, inconsiderate neighbors throughout my next month …

August 25, 2016 – Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

“And that… is a brief history of my colon.” My cousin Molly always had a way with words. She’s driving my other cousins (Kelsey, Reese) and I from Yellowstone National Park to the Grand Tetons whilst entertaining us …

July 31, 2016 – Hungry Horse, Montana

A timeline of the most remarkable July of my life: July 4th – Miri and I walk around Hungry Horse and observe hundreds of people lighting off their own fireworks in the center of town. The celebration lasts …