About

I have a bachelors degree in journalism from Northern Illinois University. After graduating I worked for a short time as an editor for a publishing company until the urge for adventure overcame my desire for a steady job. I dropped everything, packed up my apartment into a storage unit and headed west. I found work as a barista (working at a cafe) in Yellowstone National Park during the summer of 2008. It was the best summer ever. I lived in a dorm, had meals provided via a cafeteria and got to live and work in America’s first National Park. The scenery was amazing, the hikes had near limitless potential and the people were always interesting.

I did not want to endure the harsh Wyoming winter, so I came home to Illinois. Luckily, I got my job at the publishing company back, but it wasn’t long until the urge for adventure soon struck again. When spring arrived I found a job at Olympic National Park on the Pacific coast of Washington State. I again worked at a cafe. But business was very slow, so I basically got paid to read. It was the best job a quiet literature lover could ask for. Olympic is a gorgeous park and I had a beautiful time there.

I am fortunate enough to have the love of my life, Sara, accompany me in these excursions. We have been together since 2005, but I feel like I’ve known her forever.

My passions are music, literature, travel and learning new things.

I just finished the Licensure Alternative Masters Program (LAMP) at the University of Toledo, Ohio. I am now licensed to teach English at a secondary level and have a Masters degree in Education.

This blog is a creative tool for me to express ideas and to tell stories.

Enjoy.