Thoughts: What writing this blog means to me

Before starting A&D, I found myself yearning to write regularly for some time. I've always been a writer and a reader and faithfully kept a diary from the time was about eleven years old when I received my first blank journal as a birthday gift from my thoughtful step-mom, Bonnie.

In happy times, in difficult times, whatever little notebook I had at the time served as something akin to a friend, a page that would absorb my tears or overflowing joy (usually about a boy ;). Those pages lacked the judgement of others and offered quiet moments of reflection. In large part because of my diary habit- and because of reading, I learned to love writing.

   

                                                      Covers of an old diary

Somehow, in my mid-twenties I found myself at a loss for what I wanted to write about. I'd gotten to a point where writing a diary didn't make as much sense as it used to, especially when there were plenty of other things to do.

Instead, I decided to write about something I'm continually, even ridiculously, excited about: travel. There are so many awesome travel bloggers out there that just getting started was intimidating. So I have to continually remind myself that I'm not here to win a race, but to enjoy the journey. And as much as travel is the main focus, this blog will never just be about travel tips, product copy-writing, or even travelogues. This spot is about a journey, the trip of life, and whatever inspires along the way.

Sunset over Juneau's Gastineau Channel

A surprising aspect of blogging is that I find myself increasingly aware of, and thankful for, what life has blessed me with.

Perhaps that's also part of getting older. Lately, I've begun to like the skin I'm in a bit more than I used to- even if it is a little more wrinkly these days. Oh well, the laugh lines mean you've really lived, right? I'll bet Keith Richards tells himself that, too. ;)