One of the Chums taking a walk

Transitioning to Normal

2011-12-20T13:43:00.000-08:00

I have not posted in a while, as has become a common occurance recently, for a very new reason. No longer can I claim that nothing much has happened and there is nothing interesting to write- now, instead, I have much to write about, but little time to write.

Over the past few months, I have traveled a grand total of approximately three hundred miles, from Boston down to Greenwich, CT. From spending time taking care of someone I loved, to working on the waffle truck, to changing all of my future plans for the forseeable future, I have hit the one snag in my travels which I cannot work my way around.

I found Katherine.

Being with this incredible woman makes me desire nothing more than to spend more time with her, an addiction unlike anything I have ever felt. I have made clear my intentions to stay put, for the forseeable future, in the interests of being with her.

With that in mind, my life is changing. I work on a regular schedule, sleep indoors, and am reachable by mobile phone. I just paid my car insurance, have bought new "street" clothes, and am beginning to look at event more than a few days into the future.

I haven't done this for a few years, and it is a bit of a shock to realize how easy it was to transition one way, but how difficult it can be to transition the other direction.

i have some really cool projects to work on while I stay in place, along with one which I have struggled with since my travels began- how to write about my experiences.

Last night, I had an idea, which I will pursue in the coming days. To fill in the gaps left in my blog, as well as to reveal a fair bit of the information which I had intentionally censored, I am going to attempt to write a journal-style recount of my travels, day by day. Some days will have only one word, while others will have pictures and extended paragraphs. Naturally, this will be a biased recount, with the gift of hindsight aiding and changing the actual content. Nonetheless, I feel that it will also allow me a bit of creative licesse in editing my work, without the need to wake at 2AM to catch a train or the in-situ complications with long blog entries.

This project will commence in the coming week, on a separate blog, which I will make available here once it is up and running. I hope that it is as pleasant to read as this has been. I will not, in any ways, discontinue the use of this blog, but I think that the content will likely change, as I explore the sustainability projects which I ahve learned so much about in my travels.

To my friends out there on the road, be safe, joyous and creative. The world is full of possibilities, and remember: the choice you make is the only one you could have- embrace it, and roam free.

With love to all,

Matt "Stove" Lipschutz.

First day of work

2011-11-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

My first day of work went well, aside from some confusion early in the morning. Waffles were sold, toppings were added, and jokes were cracked. Really nothing that complicated.

Not too much to say, it was fun, and it is certainly interesting to see what goes on in New York....

Occupy wall street and my impression

2011-10-19T12:42:00.001-07:00

I went down to the protest yesterday on the wall street and had a look around. it was nothing like the protest in boston because it was very disorganized and nobody seems to have any information. that being said it was still great to see so many people from so many different backgrounds coming together in one place.

While I am not planning on staying there now, I imagine I will return and help out in the future. Many of the planned protest marches and actions I believe strongly in and will participate in as my time allows.

At the moment I am staying back with my parents in connecticut, and will likely remain here until january while I work in the city.

I had a wonderful time this weekend in rochester, attending my good friend val's wedding.

This coming weekend will see me up in new hampshire spending time with a friend and enjoying the mountains.

side note I'm using google voice to text translation. I've tried to proofread everything but it seems that a little bit may slip by... it happens. More or less the system works really well.

Tough Love

2011-10-05T19:06:00.000-07:00

So I've spent the last month or so trying ot take care of a very beloved family member, a task much maligned by a number of my friends for the toll it has taken on my health (more mental than physical). That is a tradeoff I have been willing to make, because I can always recover, whereas the woman I am helping to take care of is at the end of her live. That being said...

I believe in Tough Love. I have tried, for nearly a month, to be as helpful and assisting as I possibly can. Unfortunately, as I have known for a good many years, giving someone something is not the same as teaching them to do it on their own. I have only ever been able to teach this lesson through...difficulty. Threats, usually in the form of leaving someone somewhere, have worked wonders for me in my attempts to teach people a bit about their inner strengths (for those of you who are familiar with what happened with my Anu, or my mom, you know what i am talking about). I have had to teach that same lesson to the person I am helping now, in the form of a very basic threat:

Get yourself healthy, or die.

This is a lesson which I wish I were able to teach a great many more people, but I quite simply do not know how. Also, while I am able to teach in a one-on-one setting,, I cannot think of any easy way to teach what I know in any setting other than one-on-one, and, well, that's a ton of time spent with individuals.

Disgrace

2011-09-26T10:21:00.001-07:00

http://www.buzzfeed.com/chrismenning/nypd-makes-arrests-at-occupy-wall-street-protest

Half of me wants to wander the world searching for a better place, while the other half wonders how to stand and make a difference. A rapidly shrinking part refers to what I am doing now.

You're doing it wrong.

2011-09-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

"What you are doing is simply incredible. Most people would never do something like that."

I have heard a dozen variations of these two phrases from just as many people over the past two weeks. I think it is supposed to be encouraging and supportive.

It's not.

What it is, however, is fucking depressing. Stop and think for a moment: does telling someone that helping out an elderly family member, who is in need of care, sound good? Of course it does.

Does mentioning that NOBODY ELSE WOULD DO THAT sound encouraging? No. It sounds like we live in a world where people wouldn't stop to help a dying man on the street.

Oh. Wait.

Yes, I am taking time out of my life to help someone. It is great that I am able to do this. It's HORRIFYING to me that nobody else seems to be willing.

MY friends, those whom I consider close enough to be family, would do this in a heartbeat. We are not always in communication, but when someone needs help, and it is possible to give it, everything else goes out the window. Money is raised, borders are crossed, laws and rules are broken, all for the love of a friend.

Is this really such a strange concept?

Love

2011-09-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

Every day, every experience, I feel blessed to have the opportunities to experience life in the ways I do.

Love tends to be a very subjective thing. I have been fortunate enough to have felt love my entire life, from both family and friends. As a teenager, I was for a long time confused about the idea, and unfortunately linked love and sexuality, thinking that they had some sort of mythical relationship which I was incapable of understanding. Through my travels, I have come to recognize that love is simply another way to explain caring for another individual, and has no constraints whatsoever.

I have been able to view this somewhat objectively as I have experienced the lack of love in addition to the experience which I am more familiar with. It truly takes experiencing relationships with absolutely no love, no caring, nothing at all, to truly appreciate love in all of it's varied forms.

Those relationships which do mean something; honestly, those which mean almost anything, are more important than most of you can imagine. Do not take the idea that you share mutual care for someone lightly- I have seen life without it, and it is ugly. Take the time out of your life to tell those whom you love that, well, you love them. There is no time better spent.

Though chocolate ice cream does come close...

Why I deleted my CS account

2011-09-11T10:44:00.000-07:00

When I first started my travels, CouchSurfing was an incredible resource. I met awesome people, stayed in private homes and accommodations, and generally was well taken care of. I've made friends through the couchsurfing community whom I am still in contact with today, and been exposed to places and people I could have never imagined.

With all of that in mind, I have noticed a shift over the past year or so. I have been using Couchsurfing much less, and with significantly less success on the occasions I do attempt to use it. With a few notable exceptions, the quality of the users I have interacted with has been, frankly, disappointing. The hardcore travelers, activists, those willing to travel against all odds and costs, MY people, have been swallowed up by the masses. The last few couchsurfing gatherings I have attended have all involved alcohol and consumption, occasional recreational drug use, but seem to be wholly lacking in the things I truly enjoy: intelligent discussion, travel experiences and stories, unique ideas and any semblance of truly independent or free-spirited lifestyles. I began to notice this first with a couchsurfing meetup in New York City, and later in Montana, Oregon, and Utah. I seem unable to elicit responses from potential hosts, and even my simple messages with questions about a local area go unanswered. Those whom I have come into contact with seem more interested in using Couchsurfing as a social network to connect with other locals, and not so much with travelers.

The recent shift from Couchsurfing away from their attempt to obtain 501c.3 non-profit status. in favor of B-corp status, marks a shift away from the community-based approach toa typical corporate system. While I recognize the difficulties that they may have faced in the attempt to obtain non-profit status, I do not believe that they did everything possible. This comes from my own experience with non-profits back in highschool, where all we really had to do was prove that the money stayed in the organization, and was not kept by any individuals. Essentially, I feel that they failed because of their usage of funding. This was the straw which broke the camel's back, and the trigger against which my building resentment towards the Couchsurfing system and administrators.

As I feel very strongly that complaining is never a solution, I took it upon myself to delete my account. I do not wish to associate myself with an organization, nor a community, which I see in the ways I do. I sincerely hope that they are able to focus back on their community-based roots, but I do not see that as likely.

Additionally, according to the couchsurfing terms-of-service, once an account is deleted, the enduser (me) is not allowed to ever create another account.

Well, we all know how well I follow the rules.

I need to post this

2011-09-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

Here is the story of how corrupt, crooked, and disgustingly twisted our "justice" system is. I would urge everyone to watch this trailer, and the full length documentary linked at the bottom of this post. I cannot stress this strongly enough.

Watch the full video on the link below, if you cannot see it on PBS

http://video.pbs.org/video/2112607897

Back in the 'Well

2011-09-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

As has been the trend of late, it has been a while since my last update. Surprisingly, this time there is a reason. I have moved back to Norwell. That's right, the quaint little town on the South Shore which I swore I would never return to...well, I've returned. At least there is a good reason.

Mo got released from the hospital, and I am helping to get her back up and on her feet. I am living at her house, helping with basic around-the-house chores, and trying to help establish some sort of a routine for her care. On the side, I am also going to be doing my usual research, creating a database of problems, prescriptions, complaints etc. It's just like any other research project, only I have a significant emotional investment this time. Stressful as it is, I am thoroughly enjoying the tasks I have set upon myself, and I am proceeding with a determination not seen since...Well, to be honest, I'm not sure that I have ever really dedicated myself to a project like this. All of my engineering training is coming out, with written notebooks and date-marked pages to noting exactly whom I speak to and what they say. I will be collecting, collating, and sorting records, and likely doing an incredible amount of data sorting to understand everything which has happened. Once processed, I will be more than eager to give feedback to the necessary authorities, both praise for things well done, as well as criticism for that which has been sub-par.

Aside from a friend's wedding in mid-october, I don't have anything to do until November. That gives me two and a half months to complete what basically amounts to a mid-scale records project. I'm stoked.

At the same time, I have the chance to reconnect with friends all the way back from highschool, as well as some friends-of-friends in the nearby city of Boston whom I have known from my travels. There are some incredible resources in the area, many of which I was either ignorant of or simply did not avail myself of back in highschool.

Though I am off the road for a few months, I am overjoyed to be able to put my skills and knowledge to use. In November, I head down to New York to work a waffle stand in the cold, and afterward (my plan so far is to) head back out to Montana, to enjoy a winter ski season.

Those are my plans, at least for now. As we all know, they are subject to change without notice at the drop of a hat, and most likely will in ways which I cannot possibly forsee. Naturally, that neither bothers me nor really has me concerned.

Observations

2011-08-04T10:16:00.001-07:00

Every so often, a beam of light sweeps past. A row of apartments and condos is lit up, as red-white objects float gently past. The sound of their enginges fades as they come past a hill, their lights a faint glow in the distance, dissapearing in the midst of a darkening sky. The apartment lights return to lifelesssness, the only indication of passing time the low humming noise in te background, along with the occasional engine off in the distance. The mountain is a black shadow against a dark blue sky, a high condo stands soley illuminated, surrounded by a black outline to the single light atop the peak. Almost a star, it shows the joining of the mountain to the night, a sole survivor amongst an onslight of bright sparkling stars.
The gentle flow of a stream off in the distance helps me ot keep track of time, a constant and continuous reminder amidst random vehicle noise and the odd sounds off in the distance. My body, at least from the thigh up, seems to spring from nowhere, my fingers and the sounds of clicking keys a constant reminder to me that I am, in fact, here. The flexing of te laptop and te bouncing of te screen create a cinematic quality, worthy of an early 20th century silent film, with sound reel.
Laughter in the distance. A challenge. Silence.
A vehicle approaches. Will it turn or will it pass. Grass illuminated. A van drivespast, the beam cast of headlights and a flowing set of taillights the only thing marking it's presence. Soon it dissapears leaving only the sound of an overworked engine in it's wake. It fades into the distance slowly, repeatedly ressureced in both sound and sight.
A truck appears from nowhere and drives across the plain. I close my laptop as my heart jumps into overdrive. Sitting by silently, I watch them drive to a barrier with a chain strung across. Dismounting and disengaging the chain, they roll right past. The frenzied storm of activity dissapears just as quickly as it has come, lights returning to normal, the landscape painted amidst a backlight of slowly cooling night.

Fall/Winter plans.

2011-07-24T12:19:00.001-07:00

Alright so I've done a bit of thinking, and worked a few things out.

I am not going to live up at Big Sky unless something significant changes; as of right now, Bozeman is looking most appealing.

Important dates:

Lily's commitment cerimony
Val&Brian's wedding
Thanksgiving.

That's about all. So with that in mind, here are my thoughts....

Work in NYC from mid-NOV to January
Move back up to BOZ and spend the rest of the winter living in Bozeman.
-Midweek Season Pass to Bridger Bowl is around $350, full week is $575.
-Co-op is $35 to join, one-time.
-A room looks to be $350/month+, full apartment as little as $600. I'd prefer to get a one-bedroom apartment or double and share.
-Jobs I'm not too concerned about, something will come around.

I'll hang out in Rochester on both sides of the wedding, to see friends etc. Afterwards I should have a month, and I'll either head up to New England to hitch, hike, swim, relax, and enjoy myself until I head down to the NYC area for some work and Family time.

I've got nine weeks or so free between late Aug and being in Rochester. I'll base out of Bozeman, but want to visit friends in SoCal. I'll kick it in Portland for a bit, and then mosey around.

Update on life

2011-07-15T15:12:00.001-07:00

So rainbow was fun, though not necessarily in the ways which I thought it would be. Afterwards I ended up hanging out for a week with a new friend, talking and learning a bit about myself. I am now in Portland, heading to a park where I will theoretically meet up with some other hitch-hikers for a small gathering. I don't know what to expect, nor how many folks will show up, but I will go anyways.

I will post more after setting up my camp. Both phones are on and should be working, and I am trying to response to all of the messages I received while in the wilderness.

Still kickin

2011-06-29T20:15:00.001-07:00

Made it to rainbow, relaxing, and hooked up with the medical crew. Spent the day picking up a glucometer and other supplies, heading back to the gathering.

Pre rainbow dump

2011-06-25T14:43:00.001-07:00

So I am in a beat up Dodge with a group of homeless kids from the east coast, two fresh out of jail. They have made it cross country by hugging, or asking for gas money, for both fuel and cigarettes. I have hitched over 3000 miles in the past week, am traveling with criminals, and headed to a hippy festival in the forest.

How did this happen?

Hitch-hikers

2011-06-02T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is how you fit five hitch-hikers in the back of my van:

An amalgamation of updates

2011-06-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

The past week or so has been phenomenal. Starting all the way back on my birthday, I spent a few days relaxing and, well, just relaxing at Tokatee Hot Springs near Crater Lake, OR. I managed to pull myself away from the hot springs last Tuesday (the 23rd) and drive up to Eugene, where I promptly arrived too late to visit in with my friend whom was leaving for training early in the morning. I slept at a rest stop just north of Eugene, planning on visiting another friend in the morning and then making the drive to Seattle.
Managing to get myself out of bed and walking by 11 or so, I headed out. No sooner had I gotten up to speed did I see two dudes standing at the bottom of the ramp near Corvalis on the 5 (legal in Oregon) with their thumbs out. I pulled over, and promptly saw the first two *clean* hitch-hikers I have ever met inside the US. They were also headed to Folk Life, and were willing to visit my friend and chill for a bit for a lift all the way. They, also, were fresh out of some hot springs, Cougar near Eugene.
As plan changes go, this was one of the best. While visiting with my friend, we decided that, with no real schedule to keep, a side trip to Bagby hot springs was in order. "Only about 45 minutes away," I was told. Though I knew the route, distance, and time it would take before we departed, it still seemed to take a incredibly long time to get to the hot springs. We camped in the parking lot, starting the evening with a hike to the springs and a hot soak.
The next morning (the 25th?), I woke and made some coffee, watching

It was raining when I woke up this morning, with a bit of mist making it past the netting on my hammock to settle on my face. I walked over to the van to set up a tarp and begin some coffee, watching campers emerge in pairs and trios from the "No Camping" hot springs trail. I smiled at a trio who walked over, toting a decidedly damp dog, and we struck up a conversation. I noticed that there did not appear to be any other vehicles in the parking lot right about the time they asked for a lift to Estacada. I smiled, thinking of my two other riders, and invited the trio to stay, figuring I could clear some space. While the coffee was sub-par, the company was great, amidst the constant Oregon rain. Eventually everyone roused, space was cleared, coffee was consumed, and another hot soak was in order. While all of the tubs we had used the prior evening were in use, we were directed to the old tub, a bit further down the trail. This thing was awesome! Hot springs are really something special, I wish there were some in the Northeast. The five of us, plus dog, drove to Estacada, where we parted ways. The two original guys and I headed north, destination Seattle. Or a rest stop a few dozen miles south of the city, as we were to later discover.

We made it! A slack-line was set up, along with some juggling instruction (both of which I have VERY slowly picked up, and need to pick up some line for myself), at the rest stop in the morning, after which we drove to Seattle...directly to REI. An hour or more was spent browsing this store, which has a wrap shack on the second floor, a full rock climbing area, as well as hiking and biking test tracks outside. Oh, and there was a lot of gear, too. I managed to walk out without purchasing anything, though I thought long and hard about it.
This evening we camped out at Gas Works Park in Seattle. Well, they camped, I slept in my van. The park has a stunning view of the Seattle night skyline, incredibly illuminated, along with the remains of an old gas works plant (hence the name) sticking out from their original locations from the grass. Hopefully I won't get interrupted crashing out here, across from the park.

New device

2011-05-18T21:29:00.001-07:00

I finally broke down nd bought a new phone e. It is a fancy smartphone, so I can keep up with the rest of the world. This also means a lot less to carry in my pack. If only this allowed USB hosting.

Amywho, my new limited-access number is 7752508344. Service is unlimited, but the reception will suck. Old phone works, except for June in AK.

Revelations

2011-05-14T16:01:00.000-07:00

So I spent a good few days camped out near Mono Lake in Lee Vining, CA, and had the opportunity to sit around and thing. I've realized a few things.

First and foremost, I am not sure that I am capable of sitting around and thinking. I need to pace, or even better yet, walk. I was hiking short ten mile stints a few times, just to clear my head. I really need to be pushing my body to be able to clear my head like that, and it looks like it worked.

Before I even settled down into that routine, inspiration had struck and I had the first inklings of what was bothering me, thanks to my brother Dan. I was feeling trapped by my van, with things quite simply too easy and settled.

I need to get back out on the road, me and a pack, my thumb and not much else.

To that end, my next adventure: Alaska!

I am going up to Seattle for the Northwest Folk Life festival over Memorial day weekend, and from there, I'll walk across the border to Vancouver and hitch to, well, Alaska. I don't really know exactly *where*, which suits me just fine, but I want to GO.

I plan to return in time for the Rainbow Gathering in Washington, but... well, honestly, who knows what will happen. That's just the way I like it.

Meditation break

2011-05-07T11:03:00.000-07:00

So this has been a long time in the making...nearly a year, since I voiced my wishes last July. Anyway, I'm leaving. I've spent the past two days driving all over California, getting into and then immediately leaving Yosemite. I am driving myself insane.

I've got a lot to think about, and I cannot seem to really THINK in civilization. I'm headed out to the Mono Lake area, on the edges of Death Valley and Yosemite. I will hike, climb, meditate, swim, and just BE. I'll post the updates that I meant to write a week ago regarding my time in reno and some hot springs I've been hanging out at, but generally I'm just...going to think.

Next up-comming anything is the BBCRC, which I am not fully comitted to, and then the Kinetic Sculpture race in Humboldt.

I'm thinking...leave my van at mono lake, hitch back that way, and go for it. As much as I love the availability to HAVE my van, I don't like being in it all the time.

Headed west

2011-04-25T00:47:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful time back east, visiting family and friend. The seder was a raucus afair, where a good time was had by all. Some relaxation at my parents' home, a day trip to walk around Boston, and apartment-sitting for my friend Leigh round out the summary of my time.

On my way back to Reno, I got the change to stay overnight in Chicago with the Gorski's. Rose is shooting straight verticle while I thuoght about Drew's bar-mitzvah in 2012. Mom's merieung cookies were a hit (though a bit crashed from the journey), while we broke Pesach with pizza, some pie, some cake, cookies, and Drew enjoyed an anything bagel. There was much bounching on the trampoline out back, which seems to have embued both Rose and Drew with nearly limitless amounts of energy, while I felt old. Michele and I had an excellent lunch at a sandwich shop in Chicago, and then I parted her company to board a train in the rain. Naturally, it was stopped as I got inside. Presently I am speeding across the plains of Iowa. You can understand why I'm on my laptop...

Over-extended

2011-04-21T12:04:00.000-07:00

So I think I went overboard with my plans, not quite realizing what I would be undertaking. I am going to go ahead and make my way back to Reno, and MAY try to hitch from there to the Kick-off. I realized that, aside from meeting some friends, there is no reason for me to go there, so I may delay that by a bit, and simply meet up with friends later.

That being said, I am currently hanging out in the Garage. I probably won't spend the night in Mass, instead taking a cheap bus or hitching back to NYC.

I meet awesome people every day

2011-04-20T15:04:00.001-07:00

Sadly, that doesn't mean that everyone I meet is awesome. Take this message, from a girl I met in Portland...

"

he world never fails to be a fascinating place, full of marvels.

My attention, however, does waver.

I wonder how you've been. (The previous sentences were little more than a tangential philosophical preamble.) I think of you, living free, immensely capable, and opinionated. It makes me smile, this thought: jumble, that it is, of semi-formed logical threads parsed with moving pictures. Always your smile--such a nice smile. You smile when you're happy, of course, but also after you've said something (I typically deem) dumb, and you seemingly believe or hope clever--or, at least, entertaining. The last is a sudden smile, like shining it on. This trait endears you to me, though I hope saying so has not hurt your pride.

When asked, by Jordan, (innocently enough), why I'd taken a liking to you, I mentioned your smile and its complexities. I think on what you've said to me--perhaps I am naive to trust--and wonder at the mystery of the machine propelling the smile. Perhaps, as Yeats wrote,

She is playing like a child
And penance is the play,
Fantastical and wild
Because the end of day
Shows her that some one soon
Will come from the house, and say
Though play is but half done
"Come in and leave the play.'

So I mentioned this smile of yours, blindingly bright but occasionally dumb; a smile to make me smile, and wonder. And, I thought, and spoke, just as strongly, that I liked you being a person I can and wish to support and enjoy with my entire being.

I like almost every way in which you oppose me, every way but one. The oppositions push me to new planes, stimulate me to shed the old dead layers of a self no longer lived or useful or desired. The one way I do not like, the place where your life's logic has taken you, the place where your only compass in the waste is your will, and your defiance, where you have these destructive tendencies and they bend inward.

I cannot help this: I am a meddling healer. I see a man-made wasteland, and I wanna help plant a damn garden there. Not just a meager plot: I want to see terraced hills, olive groves, wildflower meadows, Italian vineyards, the hanging goddamn gardens of Babylon.

And though I see and hear you drive to grasp and make much of your life--such a precious, wonderful drive--I see still a need for the art I know, and I see a challenge.

A challenge to help you, I suppose, remember the many faces of eternity, of immortality, of your connection to love and community that span beyond the scope of your vision now. I've always liked these lyrics from a Cocorosie song, hokey as they are:

"In the these times of evil spirits
Of material thugs and mischief
Fearing Saint Noni's wisdom
And his love for rainbow spirits
Jealous of their faithful heart-bond
And their dancing and their laughing
Made at last a league against them
To molest them and destroy them
Saint Noni wise and heart-strong
Often said to Rainbowarrior
"O my brother do not leave me!
Lest the evil spirits harm you!"
Rainbowarrior of two spirits
Gentle hand and lion hearted
He laughed and then he answered
Like a child he softy whispered
We are rainbowarriors
Evil come not near
Rainbow path awaits us
With hearts of love and tears

He's dead our sweetest mother
Loving father and our teacher
He's gone from us forever
He has moved a little nearer
To the master of all laughter
To the master of all song
O my brother, O my brother
Crystal brother of two spirits
Then we gathered in a circle
Stood around the rainbow fire
Burning embers hearts united
We remembered mystical beauty
If you look hard you can find a
Rainbow trail its deep inside ya
Fear not you're a rainbow warrior
Golden light on every thing gleaming"

So, this is how I think of you, and wonder how you are. And I miss you, and wonder if you think of me--and, if so, whether with fondness, and curiosity.

"

I might have created the title with a hint of sarcasm.

Audacious plans

2011-04-20T09:30:00.000-07:00

I just posted something on Facebook, and due to the inherent nature of the Internet, it shall now come true.

I am heading to Boston on Thursday/Friday to meet up with some friends. From there, I'll take the train BACK to New York, where I will round out my gear and then head to Chicago. From the Windy City, (after taking a break, if family is available) I head to Tucson, AZ to visit Jim. From there, I head West, to the PCT kick-off. I'm not hiking this year, I just want to see some friends and possibly reconnect with a few fellow adventurers.

From the kick-off, i will hitch BACK to Reno, pick up my van, and continue my travels where they left off last Thursday. This should bring me to ~May 4th or so, at which time I will begin hiking. Serious Hiking.

Reno and the ride home

2011-04-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

So for those whom don't know already, I am with my family. Yes, my real Family. I left Reno on Thursday, arriving in New York Sunday evening and surprising everyone on Monday. I will hang out for a few days, hopefully heading up to Boston to visit friends for a day or two, and then back here to ship out. An overnight (maybe on the weekend?) in Chicago to see some other cousins, and I'll be headed back west.

Reno itself was pretty cool...Instead of hiking, as I had planned, I spent prettymuch the entire time hanging out with random folks I met in the park or at a coffee shop. By the end of the month I'll be returnin there, to base out of the area until BBCRC but intending to hike around the area.

Well that's all for now.

Travel and Friendship

2011-04-09T19:39:00.000-07:00

I've been fortunate enough to have this conversation twice recently, with one of my best friends, and a nearly complete stranger (another traveler); it has gotten me thinking.

When you travel, living on the road for a protracted period, the 'traditional' idea of friendship becomes blurred. Friendships are made in the blink of an eye, significant bonds created over similar experiences and perhaps a beer or two. A day later, communication ceases, as people go their separate ways, only to reconvene months or years later. At that time, as if none had passed, the friendship is picked up and resumed, sharing stories, experiences, and knowledge openly.

It is not uncommon for me to make a friend, perhaps in the hills of northern Thailand, sharing beers, gear, stories and advice, only to see him depart later for destinations unknown. Months later, as I travel through southern Australia, I put in a call to that very same friend, hoping to meet up, if for nothing else than to reminisce on the good days in Thailand. It may be years until we see eachother again, but at that time, as if no time has changed at all, I would welcome him into my house (or camp, van, squat, motel room, whatever) as my friend, and we would begin again sharing, reminiscing, and planning.

I don't get the chance to see many of my "old" friends nearly as much as I would like to, as my travels take me to far-off destinations, and rarely land me in, say, Rochester. At the same time, when I do, I feel like no time has passed. It's a bit different for them, especially given how I have changed over the past few years...I wonder what it must be like from their POV?

I'd like to write more, but I've got SERIOUS writers block. I've written this post four times, in different ways, and it still doesn't look correct. I'm just finished writing for now... Holed up in Reno, recovering from a small cold, then headed out to the great beyond!

2011-04-06T17:11:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Polona. Welcome to getting old.

Arcata

2011-04-04T22:52:00.000-07:00

So I've spent the past few days in Arcata, CA, staying on the couch of Hilary and Katie. These lovely couchsurfers welcomed me into their home, and have entertained me in ways which I was sorely missing in my travels. It's nice to just sit and talk...travel, the world, philosophy, whatever. Sometimes it is the little thing that really make big impressions.

I'll be headed out towards Reno in a day or two, to hike around the Tahoe area. From there I head to Yosemite, to chill in the valley and enjoy a well-needed break from humanity for a short while.

Life is, as always, pretty incredible. I've met some really super cool people, had some good times, and so far the biggest problems I've had involved a dead battery or a frozen water bottle. Here's to hoping my luck holds out...

2011-03-12T12:50:00.000-08:00

So today started with an usual application of chap-stick: my keys. For some strange reason the key did not awnt to turn inside of the ignition lock, so I took it out, coated it in chap-stick, and reinserted. still nothing. I removed the key, heated it with a lighter, and re-inserted. This melted the chap-stick, causing the petroleum it is comprised of to lubricate the lock. The key turned smoothly.

Later on, I took a nap near Teton pass, as it is 'too' warm out and the snow is crap quality. Well, I managed to leave my overpowered headlights on, and now have a dead battery. I stood out by the road for about five minutes, with a sign reading "Jumper Cables?" A kind Idahoan stopped by and gave me a jump.

Test Post

2011-03-09T12:31:00.001-08:00

I just want to see how my facebook integration worked with my blog. Hopefully this will appear on Facebook as my latest note...

Living Well...Breakfast

2011-03-09T12:10:00.000-08:00

Spring Cleaning

2011-03-07T14:51:00.000-08:00

I spent the morning cleaning up my van a bit. Putting away clothes, cleaning dishes, toys, arranging things, discovering missing gear, re-discovering formerly missing gear, etc.

The folks behind the european hitchgaherings are again putting forth an idea for a North American hitch-gathering. Now that I'm in-country, I am joining in the effort, along with my friends, to see if we can get something together. August of this year...somewhere.

I'll ride with Kris and co tomorrow, and then head down towards Teton Pass again. The riding was just...epic. From there, I'll head to the Bird.

Post-Bird, I've got a few options/decisions. My priorities currently look something like this...(No offense)
Melt in Yosemite
Parents for Pesach
Visiting Leigh
Visiting Jim
Getting outdoors

Something like that. In addition, I've got events all over the west coast from late March clear to the summer. I need to figure out a rough track, and head in that direction.

Otherwise, things are going well. This is an attempt to show the "cleaning" effect on my van...

Before:

After:

Spoiled

2011-03-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

I've been hanging out up here at Big Sky for a few days now. I had dinner with my friend Ali, rode a full day today, and went for a short eight mile hike in Ousel Falls the other day. Time has been moving quickly, while I am taking a very relaxed approach to life, and simply enjoying everything around me. I am planning on heading down to Victor again, on my way to SLC, but I am not so keen on leaving Bozeman just yet. There are a few things yet to do...

Boiling River (down in Yellowstone park)- Natural springs in a river.
Norris Hot springs (more built up, but close to Bozeman. They serve beer at the waters edge)
Hike Beehive Basin- This may be in the next day or two.
I need to continue work on my van, and make a decision. I added the sleeping platform and edge, but it now interferes with my hammock. I don't want to remove the platform...I just need to remember that I won't always have to stay INSIDE of my van. Need to add a bunch of shelving, etc. Thinking...I might acquire a cordless jig saw to make work easier.

Anywho that's all for now. Life is good...I have some photos which I need to post, if my lazy butt gets in gear. For now, praying for snow, enjoying life.

WFR and post-WFR celebrations.

2011-02-27T16:26:00.000-08:00

I am sitting using internet in my van in a shopping plaza behind McDonalds. It's sunny 28(F) out, and I'm relaxing.

Wednesday saw the practical exam for the Wilderness First Responder course. We all passed, though I did get a bit concerned (unnecessarily) at one point. I feel like the info I learned in the course can be, well, useful if needed. That's not to say that I hope to be involved in more accidents, but I'm glad to be able to help a bit more.

After we cleaned up the ranch where the WFR course had taken place, a few gentle locals were taking a victory lap on Glory. I'd heard of this, one of the shorter hikes from the top of Teton Pass, and I was quickly invited. After fumbling with resetting my bindings after "loaning" them, we packed seven people plus gear into a Toyota pickup and drove to the top of the pass. An hour-long hike laker, with myself and another the last two of seven, we settled into a small tarp and snow shelter on the peak to escape the blowing wind. An absolutely incredible thigh-deep-powder hour took us to the bottom. I can't get into that now, or I'll get distracted.

That night I borrowed a pass from Derek to Grand Targhee, for riding on Thursday. Crashed back at the ranch...

Thursday I woke up, warmed my van, didn't really look too closely behind, and began backing up. I backed right into a snowbank. I then proceeded to take close to an hour attempting to shovel myself out before a guy came to walk his dog. He quickly pulled me out using his truck, and I began backing in to the ranch driveway so that I might drive straight. I promptly backed into another snowbank. The same guy pulled me out, again, and was really chill. He showed me a few campsites I can use (with running water/toilet) for my return in the summer, as well as a spot i could always park in his driveway for a night.

I drove Derek to Idaho Falls that night, let him crash in my bed, and slept the morning of Friday in Idaho Falls.

WFR and leadup

2011-02-17T21:48:00.000-08:00

So I've been taking the Wilderness First responder (WFR) for the past four days...it has been incredible. Throughout my travels, growing up with Spike, interacting with various medical professionals and backcountry enthusiasts, I have gained quite the understanding of injuries of treatments. For the first time, I am able to collate everything into one single system, gaining the ability to discern what may actually be wrong, and, as the course continues, how to treat the various injuries and ailments. This is invaluable, both for my backcountry experience, and more importantly to the "alternative" culture to which I belong.

There are a limited number of so-called "street medics," people with varying levels of medical training, whom offer to assist those "on the street." I was fortunate in April of 2009 to meet Finn, one such individual. He was the true inspiration for me to take this course, giving me the realization that it is possible to really help those around me (in this case, homeless/vagabonds/nomads/etc) without "formal" medical training. While I am by no means a qualified instructor, by the end of the course I will, at the very least, be able to pass on the information that I have attained (at a cost of nearly $800, and two weeks) to those unable to afford what I can. This makes me smile greatly.

In addition to the course, I have had a lot of fun over the past week or two. In Eugene, OR I got to hang out with my friends Fiona and EV, whom I originally know from Mount Holyoke College/IOCA. I was actually threatened with trampling with crampons if I did *NOT* sleep on their floor, which made sleeping outside of the van an easy decision. I love friends whom threaten violence unless I do something which will, ultimately, result in more comfort for me. I've got incredible friends.
After Eugene, I was supposed to head to Portland for a day, followed by a road trip to Eugene. Portland was just a short stop, meeting a relatively random indivudual thanks to the wonders of social networking and the internet. We ended up meeting at a bar in South Portland around 7PM, and I didn't hit the road until 3PM the next day. My new friend Meghan is absolutely awesome, and I haven't met someone with a mind like that since...well, a certain friend whom keeps running away from me in Europe.

So, now I am in Victor, Idaho. It's cold, like Big sky. 9 degress F at night, etc, lots of snow, the works. It is a town of nearly 900 people, but it seems rather incredible. I have most certainly added Victor to my list of places to chill this summer, judging only from the number of climbers, mountaineers, snowboarders, and other back-country enthusiassts i have met over the past few days.

Speaking of which, I got invited to a party tonight by one of the locals...

I might blog the results, we'll see. Love y'all, and Happy Birthday (belated) to Lisa, my beautiful and wonderful mother. Gifts are on the way!

Made It

2011-02-14T11:53:00.001-08:00

Fiona and Eevy did a great job of making me forget about Colleen, and then Meghan did her damndest to make me forget about prettymuch everything else. I'm now in Victor, Idaho at my WFR course. The drive was grueling, I was two hours late, but I didn't really miss anything significant and can't wait to finish up this program. Colorado Springs is likely after this, and hence afterwards a Return Trip to Big Sky to see friends before their season ends. The Melt in Yosemite and beyond; all on the horizon.

WWOOFing in Lancom, OR

2011-02-06T15:29:00.000-08:00

This woman did not understand the concept of speaking civilly to another human being, nor did she seem to understand my level of intelligence is higher than a fence post. To top it off, she actually made me lose my temper! That hasn't happened since I last saw Sara...

"I've been hauling a trailer for seventeen years" (And you still haven't figured out how to back one up?!)
"I was riding bikes before you were born" (yet you don't believe that they can hold over two hundred pounds?)
"I know that you've never been around horses before, so don't be nervous" (after I explained growing up down the street from the Murhpy's horse place)
"I believe in doing the minimal effort" (while owning/operating a ranch...)
"I recycle!" (After I throw the third 30 gallon sack full of nylon hay ties into the garbage dump)
"I've been hosting WWOOFers for twenty years" (And yet only had a ranch for seventeen...And in all those years, never learned to talk to someone in a civil tone)
"I've owned golf carts for years, I know what I'm talking about." My response: "Colleen, I've been tinkering with electronics before you owned a golf cart"
"I've got a degree in Enviornmental Science"..."I've got a degree in Landscape Architecture" ... "I've got a degree in Landscape management" ... "I've got a degree in Ecological studies" (And sadly, after all that college, couldn't even figure out what you studied.
"Safety is very important to me, that's why I don't let anyone use power tools on my ranch" (After I ask if she wants me to use MY DRILL to put in a SCREW)
"WOW it's cold today" (40F...)
"I hope it doesn't rain like it did last winter" (in central Oregon)

Suffice it to say, I won't be back, nor will I leave a flattering reference.

This has seriously soured my opinion of WWOOFing in the US. I shall now proceed to Eugene, OR, where Fiona, DirtyFeet, and Ninkasi (A brewery) await me. This unwinding may be turbulent.

SPCC

2011-02-06T11:38:00.001-08:00

Acts change facts - Ten days at SPCC from Brussels_commons on Vimeo.

SPCC is the squat I hung out at least year before and after the Hitchgathering in Portugal. I've mentioned it in posts back in mid-August (we were building a swimming pool), but I found this video explaining a bit more about it, and figured I'd share.

P.S. mom, I was planning a personal post, but I'll hold off for a few days. The "I told you so" from you relates to how I've been talked down to for nearly a week.

WWOOFing in the USA

2011-01-31T21:03:00.001-08:00

So I'm not the kind of person to whom you say "I'm older, I've done this for years, and therefore I know best." Not do I believe that "these yokels" who have been up here for multiple generations are absolutely barn-bread idiots- they must know a thing or two about farming in the area, they've been doing it for two hundred years. Along the same lines, accepting homosexuality, recreational drug use and having a "green" look on life does not make you open-minded, especially if you are unwilling to even consider outside points of view. A university degree, even a few of them, is no substitute for experience, nor common sense.

**EDIT** No amount of acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, or experience as a vet tech qualifies HER to tell ME about structural/mechanical engineering, or how to build something from scrap metal.

Oh, and 40 degrees? That's not freezing cold, you're just a SoCal wimp.

I'm giving another chance to this woman, but so far, a combination of rudeness, insolence, ignorance, narrowmindedness and downright foolishness have really turned me off.

Orange Acres

2011-01-26T09:27:00.000-08:00

Orange Acres- A NomadBase, American Style.

Helena

2011-01-25T10:04:00.000-08:00

Yesteday started like many others. Brushed my teeth, checked my Email thanks to free wifi at the Bozeman rest area, and set out. I was heading to Helena, to visit a cafe owned by a highschool friend's cousins, and I had offered up my spare seat on Craigslist rideshares. A quick detour on my way to pick up Ali, my passenger, netted me four books and a few kitchen items for $4 from a thrift shop. I swung by the mall to pick up Ali, and we headed off.
Ali is a pretty cool chick, not least by the fact that she normally hitch-hikes her way around the state in lieu of driving her car. She was, in fact, headed to Helena to retrieve her (hopefully repaired) car from her father. We spent the nearly two hour drive chatting about everything from travel to sustainable technology. I should point out that Ali is/was/will be an architect.
We parted ways in downtown Helena, and I found a place to park. Unfortunately, the No Sweat cafe was closed...go figure, not open on Mondays. As I turned around, however, I ran across Glymm parallel parking the LARGEST PICKUP I HAVE EVER SEEN. Covered in awesome stickers, I helped him avoid squashing the surrounding cars, and we struck up a convesation. This eventually lead to him calling a friend, wherein I was provided a place to park for the night in a residential neighborhood (at Kathleen's).
Returning to my van, I retrieved my phone and noticed that I had missed a text message. Ali had noticed that the No Sweat was closed, and invited me to have a drink with her at a nearby saloon (bar/pub/watering hole, for those not used to the vernacular). Glymm directed me, and after exchanging contact details we parted ways. I spent the next hour or three having a most pleasant conversation with Ali, continuing our discussion on environmental policies, sustainability, architecture, travel, etc. She is lovely (but married). At some point, she admitted to recognizing me from a dating site I have a profile on (OKC)...she uses it to pick up snowboarding partners. As it was getting dark, she had to leave, and I returned to my van. No sooner had I pulled out one of my new-found paperbacks, Glymm called and asked where I was. He showed up a few minutes later and we headed off to Kathleen's. Oh, I should mention that, in addition to giving me $20 for gas for the trip, Ali also paid for both of my beers, against my weak protest. Glymm, I should point out, looks remarkably like a heavily ink'd version of my friend Reese.

We headed to Kathleen's house, though she was out at the grocery store at the moment. She called my phone and asked if I needed anything from the store, either to eat or drink. I graciously declined, though fifteen minutes later when she did return home, I was graced with a large package of seeds and trail mix. The three of us drove to drop Glymm off at the library, and after a short sight-seeing tour of downtown Helena, Kathleen and I returned home.

This is a compliment I have never used, but I cannot think of a better description: Kathleen is Moey-like. If you don't understand what that means, ask. Kathleen cooked an excellent chili, which she, Lynn (her husband) and I scared down heartily. We then spent the next few hours chatting, again bridging topics from travel to sustainability, engineering to the sociopolitical climate of the nation. I did the dishes despite protest, and around 11PM retired to my van to enjoy a good night's rest.

This morning I woke, went inside, saw Glymm, hugged Kathleen, and was prepared to depart. Before I was able to get away, however, $20 was pressed upon me. This, on top of all other hospitality, and a request to return. "It's nice to know that there are wonderful Americans like you traveling around the world." I was nearly floored.

Departing, I made my way to the No Sweat cafe, owned by Meg's aunt and cousins. One of the most attractive redheads I've met (a cousin) served me a scramble of egg and veggies, and upon identifying myself as Matt, friend of Meg, both cousins (server and cook) came out and chatted for a while. Again, I was treated to food, despite weak protests, and in turn bought a post card, which I need *someone's* address in Quincy to mail.

And now I will head to the library to post this, wash my face, and head for Missoula, where a couchsurfing community awaits. These are the kind of adventures I knew I would find, if only I stopped looking.

Calendar added!

2011-01-22T17:32:00.000-08:00

So I've added a few things to my blog. Links to my various online/social networking profiles, ads on the bottom (Hey, a lil cash wouldn't hurt), and most importantly, a link to my google calendar to notify y'all of my various destinations.

I don't know when the Snowbird trip is, so I posted it as March 8th. I'll correct that eventually.

Dark

2011-01-21T17:40:00.001-08:00

Blackness envelops me as I turn off the main highway, heading up to the mountain resort I temporarily call home. Vast open plains stretch before me, the faint glow of my headlights illuminating the snow-covered moonscape ahead of me. In the distance, only visible as low, darker black shapes loom the mountains, their contours and ridges indistinguishable in the inky dark. The low growl of the engine is the only way I can be sure that I am truly moving, advancing towards the forboding behemoths. Fast-paced rock music pulses from the stereo, mingling with the sounds of the engine and the wind outside, creating a morbid symphony I advance on my way.
The entrance to the canyon looms ahead, hiding in the darkness, it's prescence only revealed by the occasional sign warning of danger. At 55 miles per hour I cross the bridge, the unofficial start of the canyon. I let off the gas, knowing only too well what reckless driving can cost here. White crosses somehow stand out against the backdrop of snow, a warning to those whom would ignore other signage in the area. Groups of twos, threes, and fours go by, more than I care to count. I slow just a bit more, never in a hurry, not wanting my legacy to live on in a cross on the side of the road.

Plans!

2011-01-21T13:38:00.000-08:00

Location: Teton Valley, ID
Dates: Mon, 14 Feb 2011 thru Wed, 23 Feb 2011

Wilderness First Responder course. After that I'll probably poach Jackson for a bit, then head to Colorado Springs to visit Leigh. After Colorado Springs, I'll head to Snowbird to meet up with the fam.

Looks like plans settling in place.

Van Name

2011-01-19T13:24:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of the nomadbases and other such places in which I have had fun, I want to name my van.

So far the most prominent suggestion has been Casa Blanca. Casa Dilligaf is my personal favorite, but it doesn't quite roll...And only Aussies get the joke. So I'm taking suggestions. They don't need to begin with Casa, that was just my thought.

So, suggestions? Leave comments pls!

2011-01-19T12:54:00.001-08:00

It all started back in '08

2011-01-19T12:20:00.000-08:00

August 8, 2008. My Canadian partner had ditched me, once again, in search of...well, who knows what. I don't really care. I remember sitting in my cube, no views of the beautiful Green Mountains which surrounded this office. A post on a website, one small link in my unending research, mentioning some European hitch-hiking gathering...

My attention snaps back to the present. Daydreaming is both a blessing and a curse, a way to escape the realities of life, whilst being a distraction blending reality from fantasy. I've got the date and location, with the Eiffel tower standing before me. Now where are the hitch-hikers? Sure, there are backpackers. Some have signs, asking for money, promoting social issues, while others simply sit around in groups drinking and smoking cigarettes. How am I supposed to figure out who is the hitch and who is the backpacker here? For that matter, how might anyone recognize me.

At some point I worked up the courage to simply start walking up to people. I've never liked cold calls, a throwback to my childhood. I never found it polite to intrude, to ask for something which was not already offered. Walking over to a group sitting at the edge of some trees, I quietly inquired about hitch-hiking. Receiving no response, I almost walked away. A nagging suspicion pulled me back, and I met my first European hitch-hikers.

From that day forth, I saw that I was not alone.

Remembering a near miss

2011-01-15T11:42:00.001-08:00

As the lights faded into the distance, the reality of my situation fully sank in. It was only 9PM, and yet temperatures had dropped into the mid-teens. Inside the canyon, there are only a few places to hitch, or even stand, and that is at the best of times. At night it would be suicide. Camping was my only option; I knew this going in, but somehow it had never fully registered. A gust of wind picked up, breaking me out of my reverie. I broke trail into the snow, my low-cut sneakers not doing enough to keep snow away from my feet. I made my way over to the river, fortunate to have a running source of water, despire the temperatures. I turned on my headlamp, searching for a suitable place to make camp.

The snow was shallow, an unfortunate and unforseen problem for me. The trees in this part of the canyon were scrub, no taller than I, and yet spindly and not prone to breaking easily. Once again my survival instinct kicked in, and I began searching for a place without any snow on bottom. After choosing a suitable location, I laid down my tarp, in the hopes of at least keeping dry. I knew that if I failed to do so, an unpleasant evening could quickly turn into a fight to stay warm. At fifteen degrees, with winds picking up, that would be a losing battle for sure.

I surveyed my gear. A 45 degree jungle sleeping bag, the 6'x8' nylon tarp keeping me try, a lightweight frameless backpack and clothes suited for a trip to Thailand. Just 30 miles away, up at the base of the mountain, all of my winter gear was waiting: a down sleeping bag, gloves, hat, snowpants, thermals, the works. I kicked myself for getting in to this situation, but quickly chastized myself for even thinking in that direction. Hindsight is for the review, after I survive. For now, it was just a matter of making it through the night.

I took all of the clothes out and laid them in an approximate profile where I would sleep. I changed wet for dry socks, and put my feet into the now-empty backpack. Aftewards the pack and feet went into the sleeping bag. I had on a pair of jeans, the heaviest pants I was carrying, along with a pair of cotton pajama pants underneath. Two T-shirts, plus a windbreaker adorned my torso. I wrapped a Tshirt around my head for warmth, and settled in for a cold night.

Every half hour or so I would wake, feeling a cold spot somewhere on my back or my side. Shifting brought temporary relief, though I knew that I would wake again soon. Thoughts of other poor decisions, bad situations and similar troubles went through my mind, as I kept telling myself that I could survive. I knew that I was tougher than this, even if I was foolish enough to wander into a survival situation again. As with other trying times in my travels, I swore to myself that I would not die that day.

Morning sun never felt so good.

Travelers guide to poaching a ski resort

2011-01-13T16:59:00.000-08:00

The cafe has free condiments, water, and microwaves. Also Wifi, power, and, well, it's warm, indoors, and unlocked 24h (or at least until 1AM).

The pool/hot tub areas are unmonitored, and courtesy negates the need to actually HAVE an entry key on the one gate requiring it- others will have one.

The bell men and their unfailing 24h transportation service is reserved for guests staying at the hotel. As long as you are not an actual employee, 'misleading' them into believing you are a guest is fairly easy. Oh, and tips (cash or beer) go a long way.

Only the base lifts check tickets.

Friends whom work in the kitchen are incredible.

Any party is a good party, so long as there isn't a cover, and it someone else is driving.

I ahbor stealing, but the housekeeping carts are a goldmine.

If ever question about ACTUALLY staying at the resort, indignation goes a long way. As does speaking to a manager. Unless, of course, said manager happens to recognize you from working at the resort two years ago.

Facial hair makes such an identification (see above) less likely.

Pick up hitch-hikers. You never know.

Stories about the crazy times traveling around the world can be useful currency for things like drinks, coffee, or snacks.

The one-dollar hot dogs are GREAT when combined with the two-dollar bowls of chili. Ignore the $2.50 Chili-dog.

Rotating impersonations seem to work the best. Rotate between Tourist, Rich prick, employee, and wandering traveler on a frequent, but not necessarily regular, basis.

Ski resorts without skis

2011-01-11T17:13:00.000-08:00

Are like hitching without cars. I've found other ways to entertain myself, however, mostly involving socializing with friends from prior visits and van projects. I had, in fact, taken pictures earlier today of my van to post online. Unfortunately, I am a crap photographer, so I deleted them and will take better photos tomorrow. Otherwise, things are going well...The cold spell is ending, with the next seven days bringing mid-20s weather and light snow, perfect for both riding and van-dwelling (the past two evenings have clocked in around -10F). My buddy Kris's birthday is in a few days, as well as the Sno Bar event on Friday...this is the same event I stuck around for last year, and things may be going the same way.

From Bozeman I will make my way to Oregon, to visit some old friends and maybe ride a few trains/explore a bit. From there, uncertain, but probably down towards Lake Tahoe, CA, to either ride or continue south to Bishop, where I'll begin some serious outdoor explorations.

Things are going well, aside from my water supply freezing. I have numerous ideas on how to solve the problems, but KISS stepped in: Go somewhere warmer. Oh right, my house has wheels...

Cold

2011-01-09T13:29:00.000-08:00

I haven't felt cold like this morning since, well, the last time I came up to Big Sky. I survived it, with only minimal chilling of the toes and fingers. Tonight I shall be better prepared.

Scenery

2011-01-08T08:40:00.001-08:00

After my short indulgence Wyoming, I had to be on my way. As the sun began it's long, slow descent into the night, a range of mountains, freshly illuminated, shone to the west. I felt alive. For the next hour, as I drove parallel to an ever-deepening fireball sunset, I was given a delicious treat in the mountainous ridges rising out of the white snowfields. The ground was laced with gullies, snaking their way across the land like fine blonde hair. Now the cold settles in, bringing with it the midwest night sky. Tiny pinpricks of light can be seen, as if painted on, piercing the curtain of blackness. Winter's cold soon has its toll on me, and I retreat to my cot, snuggling up in two sleepings bags to face the 15 degree temperatures. Goodnight.

Casper, WY

2011-01-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

Wow it's beautiful out here. Clear blue sky, warm (40s) day on the plains, with the backdrop of the Tetons to the west. Still no word from Jess, which has me getting impatient. The driving is easy, very relaxed and slow. Well, as slow as 55 in a 75 can be. That's all for now...

Chilling

2011-01-05T02:00:00.000-08:00

It's 2AM, EST. I'm chilling in the back of my van, listening to some tunes parked at a rest stop on I-80. I took a bunch of state highways though Indiana avoided the tolls. It was also nice to see a little bit more than freeway...I think I'll be staying off the interstates for the most part.
Pending a response from Leigh, I'm either headed to Bozeman or Colorado Springs. If I head for Boz, I'll probably shoot over to OR before heading back by Boz to Co. Springs and then down towards Tucson/Austin. At least, that's what is going through my head right now. Tomorrow things could be completely different.

Oh it's 11F out.

On the road

2010-12-29T18:20:00.000-08:00

My first real night on the road...I am back up on the South Shore, visiting an old friend tomorrow for lunch, after which I head back to my folks' house, pick up a few lingering toys, and head west. First Stop: Rochester. After that, it's a prettymuch straight shot to Montana. I'm still working out some basic issues, but things are going well.

That was, until I got locked out of my bank account. This seems to be happening all too often. Unfortunately, I do business with a bank who's first priority is SECURITY. This means that I cannot talk my way into my account without tons of verifiable info, in this case some stuff which I don't know. So, gotta wait till they mail something to Jess in Burlington, she opens it and relays it to me. This means that I'm gonna be out of some $ for a few days, which will bite...But such is life.

I will post pictures of the van (inside and out) in a few days.

Van update

2010-12-02T13:02:00.000-08:00

After speaking to some long-lost friends, collecting even MORE research, attempting to contact dozens of people (with a handful ever responding), I've reached a point:

The dodge 318 V8 engine.

So, with that in mind, I get to RE-RE-RE-resume my search. At least, after all of this, I have some positive feedback regarding the reliability of the engine I am choosing, as well as a baseline from the vannie community (those whom live in vans). So, after many false starts, assumptions, mistakes, and a few hundred miles of travel, I've got a decision.

In other news, coming up here may have cost me a hundred+ dollars, but I've saved easily that much by visiting the Gear Exchange. I picked up a $200 jacket for $60 (I've been looking for a good softshell), as well as a pair of 4-point instep crampons (IMPOSSIBLE TO FIND IN NEW ENGLAND!!!) for half off ($30).

I considered hitch-hiking back, and would really love to...but time is a factor. So, maybe next time.

Thanksgiving humor (Non-vegan!)

2010-11-22T15:21:00.000-08:00

So I just wanted to post this because, well, it's funny. And a good excuse to update. It's also easier than sending out forwarded emails, which I hate to do.

A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary.

Every word out of the bird's' mouth was rude, obnoxious and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music and anything else he could think of to 'clean up' the bird's vocabulary.

Finally, John was fed up and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot and the parrot got angrier and even more rude. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbed the bird and put him in the freezer. For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer. The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior."

John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude.

As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird spoke-up, very softly, "May I ask what the turkey did?"

If you're not laughing, leave.

I'm doing pretty well, still bumming around Mom and Dad's place in Greenwich. My plans for a motorized exploration around the US are still solid, or at least as solid as always. I've has some trouble finding my ideal vehicle, but am determined to make it to Montana for New years.

Thanksgiving is in a few days, and I can't wait to see family again. It's also nice to be back in my favorite season, taking walks out to the leaf-less trees, enjoying the smells of autumn, especially the wood-burning fires.

Home?

2010-11-08T19:35:00.000-08:00

I've been at my parents house for a month. So far, I have made very little progress, though I've done an incredible amount of research, as usual. It's scary what I know about used vans currently available for sail in the US. And Hypnosis, as well as preserving and fermenting foods, baking home-made bread, and various passive-solar evaporative refrigeration techniques (REALLY simple). In short, while not making much forward 'progress,' I have kept fairly busy. Oh, I also discovered that the park three miles (five KMs) away has both extensive mountainbiking AND various bouldering spots. I am currently sore from the ears down, due also in part to my Sunday Night BJJ lessons...Damn I'm out of shape.

Hope you all are well-

Ramblings from Cologne

2010-10-05T19:05:00.001-07:00

As I sit below a magnificent church, surely a something regarded as a wonder here in Cologne, Germany, I realize the truth in something which I have been saying for a while now:

I am tired.

Lest anyone worry themselves, I am getting plenty of sleep. My body, and to some extent, mind, are in perfect (well, normal) physical health. It is, in fact, my soul which has become weary. My passions, dreams, and challenges have all become, well, commonplace; I do what I want, when I want, how I want. Travel has lost its excitement, and in many ways has become as mundane as the daily communte to work. Find a new place, meet new people have a lot of fun, get to know the local surroundings...Move on. While exciting, engaging, and incredibly encouraging, this style of life does not allow for certain things to develop fully.

Rain

2010-09-26T06:12:00.001-07:00

So I'm not going to Amsterdam...At least, not today. It is pouring rain outside in Zagreb, and I am warm and dry in Katarina's apartment. Tomorrow will hopefully be mildly better, and aside from some friends whom I should visit, I don't have any pressing hurry to make it to Holland.

Besides, it's cozy here. Well, aside from the rain.

Zagreb!

2010-09-24T13:46:00.001-07:00

Why Croatia you might ask? Good question. There is this little issue of Visas...and, well, I don't want to risk anything. Croatia has a separate visa system, so I skipped down here for a few days to relax, chill, and let my visa carry over enough that I have time to enjoy without having to worry about breaking any laws. I will be here for two or three days, and then heading back up to Amsterdam to hang out with Casa folks. After that, Frankfurt, and back with family! YAY!!!

Final day

2010-09-19T07:59:00.000-07:00

This is the final day of racing. There is currently a four-way tie for first place, so whomever takes it today takes the entire regatta. Regardless of the outcome, I have had a lot of fun, and wouldn't have changed most anything. It is also Yom Kippur, and while I am not heading to temple, I am fasting. Last night, when I mentioned this at the team dinner, my team was absolutely incredulous- I have developed quite the reputation as the garbage disposal at the end of the table, scoffing down twice as much food as anyone.

After this, I head back to Slovenia. A train to Venitmiglia, then from there to Milan, to Mestre, to Trieste. A tram, to a walk, to Sezana, a train to Ljubljana, to be picked up by Polona.

I'll spend a few days in Slovenia with my friends, and then head back towards A'dam. A few days at Casa (not the week+ I had planned), and I will quick-hitch down to Frankfurt. An overnight in Frankfurt-am-Main, and on the 4th of October I will board a flight back to NYC. It all seems so close now...

we won

2010-09-18T08:01:00.001-07:00

the title prettymuch says it all. By 1 minute 48 seconds...damn close!

Tomorrow off to see Polona. Happy Bday to Steve, I'll call later I promise!

Regatta 2: Race one

2010-09-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well we pulled third. Personally, I think that is great, considering the bad luck (wind shifts) and monumental screw-ups which occured. The stern (my section) was far from perfect, but we did well- today was mostly a case of the brain not connecting with the heart, or in this case, the skipper trying to micromanage everything without focusing on driving.

Well, aside from the finish, I had a blast. I don't really care about the outcome, I am having fun either way.

Oh, and I had to turn down the Kelpie for a transit race to Cannes. As soon as we finish the prize ceremony, I am heading back to Slovenia, to hang out with Polona.

and I need to fix my backspace key, which is a pain in the butt.

We win!

2010-09-13T10:54:00.001-07:00

We won our first regatta in Imperia. Today we sailed through a storm to reach Nice, where we met up with the new crew (the Dix family) and are preparing to begin practicing. We will be racing again on Thursday, ending on the 19th. After that...I am supposed to head to A'dam, via Lyon. I've received word that I am welcome back in Ljubljana, a very tempting offer...Right now I am undecided. It violates a major rule of travel, but I've never really been a stickler for rules. We shall see...

Second Race

2010-09-10T09:10:00.000-07:00

We came in second. A lot of mistakes were made, some serious, others insignificant. More importantly, we all had a lot of fun. I lost my balance and fell, slamming my back on the tiller- that hurt, but it was high enough up on my back not to be trouble. Nearly got brained by the boom, but ducked at the last minute. I love my job, running the stern team; I'm not so sure that my stern team enjoys it quite as much. It's great to be doing something physical and have a sure place to sleep at the same time, so I am able to really push myself hard. Still, I don't want to go too far- there is no point in my busting my ass when others seem to be dragging their feet. I have been receiving compliments from my teammates on how hard I am working, which is really great. Although they cannot hear the skipper from the tiller to the bow, my grunts, shouts, and curses can be heard clear from the fantail to the bowsprit.

It's a good time to be me.

First Race

2010-09-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

So, it got canned. The weather was too rough, some boats claimed to get damaged, whatever happened nobody knows. The point is, the fact that we WON because we had the BALLS to sail through a STORM and persevere was lost due to some wimpy locals crying. But we played hard, and it paid off. I'm sored, tired, worn out, but happy. This has been an incredible experience. I lead the Aft crew, which means I get to yell at two, sometimes three people. But the good thing is I have a lot of fun. It's an incredible experience.

Also, I was given an offer to come sail on a boat based in Erie, PA. it's something which I could consider, if only to get a bit more experience. I really do dig sailing, though it is just another ting to get in the way of my travels. Who knows, it could be a cool way to travel, and with a bit of experience I could hop around different boats and really get somewhere.

...Just another feather in my cap...

On a separate note, I got to see everyone at the Kastin's for Rosh Hashanah Dinner! That was pretty awesome, and sweet timing. I was planning on being asleep by now, but I am very glad that i was not. I think Mom was crying. it is great to be able to communicate, if even only by webcam adn whatnot. I love my family so very much.

still alive

2010-08-25T04:19:00.001-07:00

this post is just a placeholder for the time being. I made it to Paris, am staying with Nessa and Jerome, visiting friends and unwinding after a LOT of adventure. I'll write more later, but for now, I'm alive, well, and in good company. Things are good.

Out of Lisboa

2010-08-20T12:00:00.000-07:00

I stayed at the squat in Lisbon for nearly a week, hanging out with friends, experimenting with various devices, and helping out around the area to further the development of the pool. Too soon, I felt the call of the road, a call which I had to answer. I packed my bag, walked into the common room, and said my goodbye. I got a few hugs, some smiles, and at least one angry glare, and I was off.

I returned two minutes later in search of my towel.

It took me nearly an hour to catch a ride out of Lisbon, and not necessarily in the direction I wanted to go. The two Portugese guys were really cool, sharing their food and giving me a lift to a spot near the Spanish border. Still buzzing about the hitchgathering, I mentioned it to the two guys up front. The driver had actually heard of the event, telling me his sister had picked up a crazy hitch-hiker a week or so ago, on his way to the very same event. Apparently this poor guy had gotten a late start, and to compound matters, ended up going in the wrong direction with the sister. I laughed, knowing what that feels like all too well. As our conversation progressed, the driver mentioned that he would, in fact, be going to the US in November, to go to pilot school down in Miami. My mind clicked over, putting all the pieces together. "Does your sister drive a dark-colored Skoda...?" I asked. We immediately began laughing, realizing that *I* was the crazy hitch-hiker his sister had picked up, on my way to the hitchgathering. We attempted to call and set up a meeting, but the sister was out of contact. What a small world!

After some food, it was back to the road. A great spot on the outskirts of town had me convinced that I would be in Spain in no time. Well, perhaps nintey minutes later, a small RV with Polish plates pulls up, with a small French-labeled Renault behind it. I would make it to Spain alright...but getting out was another matter.

still alive

2010-08-11T04:10:00.000-07:00

the hitchgathering turned out to be more of a party than gathering...not quite my thing, but I met some cool folks. Oh, and I got attacked by a drunken Wolf...pictures of that to come, Iºm totally fine. currently in Lisbon, but my next stop is Paris!!!

France at last

2010-07-27T06:58:00.000-07:00

I'm in Chamonix. Yes, I was headed for Lyon. Yes, I do know that one is east, and one is west when leaving Geneva. But...Chamonix! Mont Blanc! It is absolutely incredible here. I'm going to spend the rest of the day relaxing by a raging river, camped out illegally in the woods listening to music and writing in my journal. There is no better way to unwind (at least, in France...Legally...Safely...At this time of year). So, tomorrow Lyon, but today, pristine wilderness. With a motorway a few hundred meters below me...

This is the route *normal* people take:
View Larger Map

And this was my route...

View Larger Map
And I'm still not to Lyon

2010-07-26T10:38:00.001-07:00

From Budapest to Ljubljana was rather uneventful- A single overnight spent just south of Balaton, sleeping in my brand new $10 tent from Tesco. I love these cheap little things, I can abuse the hell out of them, expect about three months of wear and tear, and then give them to someone unwilling to spend even that much on a piece of gear. I can't wait to hit an REI and pick up a decent tent for a reasonable price...

Ljubljana...Well, I succeeded in meeting up with Shaun, as well as his friend Martin. While we were only intending on meeting up and hanging out for a little while, I ended up staying with their couchsurfing hosts for the night...And the next one. The four girls were university students, two of them sisters, and were on summer break. We all cut loose a bit, had a lot of fun, and I will hopefully see Polona and her friend Ziva in Barcelona or Portugal. I really love Slovenia, and think that it may be the most beautiful country I have visited yet...Ljubljana is like Burlington, but bigger, with much prettier architecture.

This continued for four nights, after which time, despite protest (my own), I hit the road. My first lift came almost too easily, a quick hundred kms to the border with Austria. A brief wait later, and I caught a lift with a Slovenian truck driver up to the Rasthalle in Salzsburg, just west of the city. Discrete camping, an underpass to the other side of the road, a McDonalds with free Wifi, and LOTS of vehicular traffic...I like this one! I camped in the mild rain, throwing my tarp over my tent (1500mm hydrostatic head is 'water resistant' in my mind) to block both the rain and the light from the trucks coming and going. The next morning, still damp, I hitched out.

A german gentleman gave me a ride from Salzburg to a tankelle (petrol [gas] station) south of Munich, where I looked sorry enough that a Belgian couple decided to take pity on me and give me a lift. They were headed all the way up to Gent, just in time for the end of the Gent Festival. I considered going with them, and then hitting the festival for a day, then hitching back to A'dam, but in the end decided against it. Patryk, I learned last night, is at Casa right now...Shame, but I'll see him in Portugal. Well, these Belgians were freaking awesome! They had a cute golden retriever in the back of their series-3 Westphalia, and they were both pretty well linked up with the squat/alt scene in Gent. This gave hours of talking material, which helped us overcome 500kms and hours of stopped German traffic (ON THE AUTOBAHN!!!).

In the end, they set me down near Heilbonn at another tankelle. I walked over to the other side of the autobahn and walked into the small shop, searching for a better atlas of Europe to hitch with. Unfortunately, after comparing my own map to the atlas (same company) and placing my atlas back in my bag, the shopkeeper thought I was trying to steal it and shouted at me. I smiled, showed how worn my atlas was, and she understood. Back out to the road, I caught a lift with a German kid going to Offensburg. He worked for the state government (bundestadt?) and wanted to travel after he finished his university (apparently he won't have any trouble getting a job after taking a year or two off in his line of work...I want that!) As enthusiastic as he was, he nonetheless dropped me at the wrong service station (my fault for not paying attention), which was off the highway a km or so. I ended up camping on a nearby canal path, not bothering to set up my tent.

The dew in the morning was everywhere, and took a while to dry off. Due to the construction at the ramp, and my inability to properly find my location on a map, I boneheadedly decided to hitch to France. Not only do I fail to realize that I am NORTH of Strasbourg, but I smile and begin to walk, also failing to realize that it is 25 kms to the French motorway. I finally manage to get a few short lifts there, and wait for nearly an hour. At some point, I checked my map, looked at the branching roadsigns in front of me, and realized that I was in the wrong place, and would have to hitch straight through Strasbourg to get south. Naturally, I turned around and hitched back towards Germany. My first ride was going all the way to Freiburg. I got dropped at the last service station in Germany, and was not the only hitcher there. Apparently the pair of guys whom had sat down and set up a sign in front of me (quite rude, as I was there first) also trying to get to Lyon. I almost changed my direction when a beautiful blonde in a hot white Porsche smiled and gestured that she was going in the direction of Basel. Before I could change my mind, she was gone...Ironic, considering my next ride took me to Basel, and then ended up taking me all the way to Geneva.

I arrived here yesterday afternoon, no idea where I was sleeping, and no idea how to hitch out. I found some wifi and posted an emergency couch request, and began to explore. Daniel, a like-minded hitch-hiking, mountain climbing, adventure-seeking Brazilian dude is now hosting me, while he studies for his PhD in neuroscience. I will leave tomorrow for Lyon, crossing back into France and embarking on my last 150kms before hanging out for a few days with Sitrane. Sma, Patryk (with his Russian hitchpartner), and a number of other hitch-hikers will be meeting in Lyon on the 30th, on our way to Barcelona and then Sines, Portugal for the 6/8/10 hitch-hiking gathering.

I wonder what they're going to put 11 with next year?

laptop dead

2010-07-17T05:31:00.000-07:00

back to somewhat infrequent posting, as my laptop has crapped the bed, so to speak. the hard drive is screwy, and while i do know how to fix it, i am not currently feeling like traveling back to Amsterdam to fix it. So, for the time being, i will be connectionless...at least it means 3lb more off my back.

plans...heading south for a bit, with a nice stopover in the mountains to clear my head in the swiss air. i will head to lyon, then to barcelona and portugal for the hitch gathering. i might meet up with leigh and travel around for a bit, but in all honesty my current desire is to travel solo for a bit, visit friends up north, and then head over to iceland for a spell. not sure yet what will happen, but this is the most recent update-development.

Amsterdam-Pecs

2010-07-16T07:46:00.000-07:00

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We took the loooong way. but still made it in 48h, with two (short) nights of (wet) camping.

THE EARTH

2010-07-04T00:46:00.000-07:00

As I've been tallying up all of the hitch-hiking I've done over the past few years, I've discovered something...

I've got a REV. That means I've hitched 40,000kms, or the circumference of the earth. I'll post maps of some of my other fun trips, such as around the west coast and my first European trip from Cork to Belfast.

This is kinda cool...I've hitched approximately 41,200kms in total, or over 25,000 miles.

August 2009 hitching trip

2010-07-04T00:42:00.001-07:00

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Insight

2010-07-02T20:36:00.001-07:00

From my discussions with Mom and Dad, it seems that some folks have a misconception about my travels. Yes, this most recent hitch-hiking jaunt threw me into a roller coaster of emotions, from self-doubt and depression to companionship, joy, and celebration. However, this is my life. I don't usually post about when I feel any sort of significant self-doubt, that all goes into a private log somewhere else (no, you can't see it). I simply felt that it would have been incomplete to tell the story about this particular trip without mentioning the emotions which were attached to it, so that folks understand what it is like. Just like anyone else's life, I have good days and bad. The difference is, I don't always have a place to hide when I'm having a bad day like most home-bound folks; I grit my teeth, screw on a smile, and keep going.

Dan asked me an interesting question: Why? He was asking why I camp in the bush, turn in after dark, and wake up before daybreak. The answer is that I enjoy pushing myself, and getting the most out of every single day. I love the freedom I have when I'm living out of a rucksack, knowing that I don't have anywhere to be, anywhere to go, and nobody depending on me- I'm the master of my own world. It's a feeling which most folks cannot really relate, always having to work on someone else's schedule or pace. This is why folks enjoy going into the wilderness- suddenly, the only thing which matters is you.

I hope this gives a bit of insight into Me.

My Trip!

2010-06-30T18:01:00.000-07:00

View Larger Map

15,314 kms in three months!
(9515 miles)

Possible change in plans

2010-06-30T01:20:00.000-07:00

...I might enter Tramprennen 2010.

http://tramprennen.org/rennen2010/

Which would mean ONCE AGAIN that I skip going up to Nordkapp, visit my friends in July and early August, and then enter the Viva con agua hitch-hiking race from Hamburg to southern Romania.

..And miss out most of the time in Iceland, and instead fly from Munich to Iceland, spend a few days there, and then head home.

I don't know, but a hitch-hiking race sounds like SO MUCH FUN.

And I'm competitive when it comes to hitch-hiking.

Did I mention that I just finished a 4500km hitch? Or caught a single 2400km ride a month ago. I'm a bit proud of my thumb at the moment.

The Big Hitch

2010-06-28T23:08:00.000-07:00

Leaving Perth early in the morning, I caught a train to Midland station, where I had a short wait to catch a bus up to the start of the Great Northern Highway, my road to Darwin. It was the 21st of June, and I had exactly ten days to make just over 4000km across vast stretches of scrub bush and desert. Insecurity and apprehension gripped me as I stood at the petrol station, thumb out, smiling at passing drivers. Am I a fool for attempting this? Will I fail? Thoughts, both doubts and hope, flashed through my head at blinding speed, shaking my confidence to the core. I thought back to times before, to the improbable tasks and impossible goals I have always set for myself, and yet usually attain. Finally my mind settled on one thought: Failure is not an option. My first lift was going to Jurien Bay, some 250 kms up the coast. He dropped me on the side of the road, albeit a fairly crowded highway- I was 10ks from the nearest anything, with a moderate sun shining down on me. I started to walk up the road backwards, thumb in the air, smiling. The second car to pass pulled over, with a pair of Aboriginal guys sitting up front. They were headed to Geraldton, a five hour drive from Perth, and the first real town on the route. They were brothers, one looking for work in the labor/construction industry, the other a hip-hop artist trying to break into the North American market. We discussed everything from drugs and alcohol to poverty, crime, and the current state of hip-hop music. He had decided years ago to turn away from drugs and booze and focus on music and family; it was the most significant decision he'd made, and he never looked back. I admire determination like that, having felt something similar, yet constantly looking back to what I could have 'if only.' From Gerarldton, one short lift with a surf junkie turned commercial fisherman, and I was at the 440 truck stop, just north of the town. An older gentleman picked me up and drove me to Northampton, where he and his wife and dog, Boston, lived. I hiked up the hill at the north end of town, watching the shadows growing long and the sun dwindling. Night would come soon, and I needed somewhere quiet and out of the way to camp. Just as I had picked out a suitable spot to bed down for the night, a station wagon slowed and stopped for me. Bevon, a South African student/surfer was headed to Canavorn, but would stop for the night in Kalbarri to catch some waves in the morning. It was nearly 400kms, and so I agreed to accompany him for the evening and the next day. We grabbed some wine, watched a world cup match (I don't recall who was playing), and headed off to sleep- Bevon in the back of his wagon, while I walked a few yards off to the beach to settle down to the sound of crashing waves amidst a beautiful star-lit sky.

I woke at daybreak, watching a group of anxious fisherman preparing a boat for a day on the water. My South African friend was also awake, and we stretched and laid out the basic plans for the day. As we were preparing to depart, a local ranger drove up, asking if we had spent the night in the car park. It is illegal, he told us, to sleep in a parking area in Western Australia, as well as illegal due to a town law. We would later learn that the reason it is illegal in the town is that the local caravan park is owned by the council, and they want the money. Naturally, we were creative with the truth, and received a warning. The surf turned out to be crap, or so I was told, and after a lukewarm cup of coffee, we headed north. I got dropped off 7km outside of Canavron, on the road heading north to Exmouth and Karratha, unfortunately leaving my good silnylon tarp in the back of Bevon's car. I hope he has some sort of use for it, or passes it on to someone whom might use it; I'll have to get another one when I get back to the US. An hour or so wait later, and a large SUV pulling a caravan stopped for me. A 60-something hippy smiled out at me, offering a lift to the Minilya roadhouse, as he was heading to Exmouth, which was a turn-off an nearly 100kms out of my way. We discussed travel, both his and my plans, life, and everything else which popped into mind. I mentioned my unfortunate mishap with the tarp, and we he dropped me off at the roadhouse, he walked back to his caravan. A brand new 6x9 tarp came flying out at me, still packaged in plastic. "I can always buy another one," he told me. I've often used this thinking, and it was incredible to be on the receiving end for a change. I also received a beer, an orange, and some snacks. Again the light was failing, but I still tried to hitch for an hour or so until dark, at which point I walked over to a nearby parking area and camped out, chatting with a few other campers. I had hoped to ingratiate myself to the point of catching a lift, but it seemed that all of the nice folks had full cars, and those with space had no interest in talking to me. C'est la vie.

The next morning I woke just before sunrise, thankful for my Nunatak down blanket, as a slight chill had set during the night. I walked up to the roadhouse and began hitching. I saw plenty of cars, with plenty of seats, but none considered stopping. Two vehicles did stop during that time, unfortunately they were both headed south, the direction I had come. Self-doubt and thoughts of failure began creeping into my mind slowly, occasionally bolstered by the truckers whom I spoke to, some of whom were quite discouraging. A procession of antique Bentley's drove past, some with space in their back seats. Sadly, it was only the ones which were full whom stopped to chat, all apologizing for not having space, some offering kind words of reinforcement and admiration at my courage to hitch-hike. Plenty with empty space drove past, but again none stopped. I had woken around 6AM, and by 1PM I was beginning to become despondent. Perhaps a hundred vehicles had passed going my way, yet none had even slowed. I saw a tradesman pull in, his passenger seat empty, and I decided to go against my normal routine and ask. When I saw him returning to his vehicle after a break, I walked up and asked if he might be headed north. He smiled and said yes, offering me a lift as far as the next roadhouse. My heart jumped, and I immediately hopped in. He was from Queensland, thousands of miles from home, but had to work out in Western Australia to make money to support his family. I cannot quite commiserate, but I can imagine how difficult that must be. When we pulled up to the next roadhouse, I thanked him, walking over and immediately buying a cold drink and an ice cream cone- some things are just worth boosting morale. I spotted a young guy lingering by a new cement mixer, and again decided to ask. What's the worst that could happen, I thought to myself. Again he was headed north, and smiled when I asked for a ride, "Yeah Mate, hop up." I caught a lift past one road house, to Fortescue River roadhouse, where numerous trucks were parked. I tried to hitch for a little while, but again it was getting dark. After a bathroom break, and a water refill, I wandered off into the bush to make my camp for the night. The nights were beginning to get warmer, though midnight chills significantly dropped the temperature and early morning winds kept my sweater on for the first hour or so of daylight.

Daybreak brought a sad surprise- almost all of the trucks were headed south! I asked a few truck drivers whom appeared to be heading north, unfortunately they were all either unwilling or did not have space to take me. A large rock sat by the entrance to the truck stop, with significant visibility down the road. I sat there, listening to music, writing, thinking, thumb out, for most of the morning into the afternoon. Again cars passed, from trade workers and miners to pensioning nomads towing caravans and backpackers in every conceivable vehicle. A few gave apologetic shrugs from over-full vehicles, while most simply ignore me and went about their business. Around 2PM I was sitting on my rock, again wondering if THIS was the place I would be stuck, when a man walked up from behind me. I pulled out my headphones to the greatest phrase,"Hiya there, you needing a lift?" I smiled, asking where he was headed. Karratha, the nearest thing to a town within a hundred KMs, was his destination. Pat and his co-driver Jonsey were exploration drillers, living for weeks at a time out in remote areas of the bush, drilling to explore the possible mineral content in the area, and then selling the rights to larger mining companies. They dropped me at McDonalds, where I planned to hop online and update my blog. Unfortunately, while they had free wireless, it failed to work, and I quickly gave up and hit the road. It was 7KMs back to the main highway, though I assumed it would be easy to hitch a lift. A half hour later, in frustration, I decided to walk. By that point, perhaps 200 vehicles had passed, most not paying me the slightest glance, nearly all with at least one empty seat. Walking perhaps two kilometers, a guy pulled off and offered me a lift to the hightway and then north to Roeburn, some 35kms away. He had just sold a caravan up there and needed to do some work on it. I got a quick tour around the town, which was mostly an Aboriginal community, and then was off to the road. I received dirty looks from most of the white Australians whom passed me, while the Aboriginals mainly ignored me or looked confused. I managed to walk through the center of town and out the other side (maybe one kilometer, if that) and decided to keep going on the road, in the assumption that I would need somewhere to camp. By this time I was running calculations in my head, knowing that I would need to start making more significant distances if I wanted to make my goal. I had just reached the caravan park on the outskirts of town when a van pulled over, and two young French girls smiled at me. They were heading 200kms to Port Hedland, and would be delighted if I went with them. Melanie was from Picard, while the other girl was from Brittany, though I don't recall her name. These girls were meeting up with some friends, and while initially I was planning to sleep outside of town at the truck stop and make an early start, real human contact and the desire for friendship overrode this decision. I got along great with the three French guys, to the point that I was invited to dinner (Fajitas) and beer, and was told I could sleep in their van for the evening.

The cost of companionship was evident the next morning, when I faced a 15km walk back out to the highway. Again setting off at daybreak, I began walking along the main road out of town, thumb out, head held high. I had made maybe one mile, a kilometer and a half, when a work truck pulled up next to me. An Indonesian guy offered me a lift out of town, dropping me at the north-bound truck stop. Here I would way again until early afternoon, my longest wait yet in Australia. During this time, I asked multiple truck drivers, always being rejected, and occasionally ridiculed. One particularly fat and idiotic trucker took offense to my having asked him twice (fat hairy truckers all look the same to me), and insisted I pick up a pushbike and start pedaling towards Darwin. Every time I walked up to ask a trucker, this fat idiot would yell something about biking at me. Eventually a trucker admitted to having just come south, and offered to announce me to other truckers on the wideband radio. I thanked him profusely, hoping that it would help my chances. After another few hours, Alession, an Italian traveler in a somewhat malfunctioning 4WD Mitsubishi van stopped and offered me a lift to Broome. He could only go 80KM/hr, but that was still faster than i was making, and it was 600kms to Broome. Alession and I had some similar passions, especially snowsports and the mountains, and he ate up my stories of Montana and California, vowing to come and work in the states. I gave tricks on travel, from tips of survival to language shortcuts and comprehension issues. We got along great, and he must have apologized a dozen times for not driving further than Broome, but he was in need of work and would be staying there to try and find a job.

I thanked Alession for the lift as far as Broome, my longest on this part of my trip, and with renewed confidence knew that I would make it. From the truck stop outside of Broome the next day, I caught a quick 100km lift with a pair of French guys, whom dropped me 45km outside of Derby, on the highway but in the middle of nowhere. They were concerned for my survival, and decided to have lunch right there, telling me that they could give me a lift into town if I failed to catch a lift before they lift. I was grateful, and soon an Aboriginal couple pulled up and gave me a lift to Fitzroy Crossing. I got into town around 2PM, and would not get out until 9Am the next day. I was in desperate need of a shower, and saw the sign at a truck stop, 'Showers $4.' I walked up to the counter to pay, and was told by the young man behind the counter not to worry about it, and simply to hop in. I felt like I had been on the trail for weeks, trekking through hot desert. Clean and refreshed, I headed into the bush to camp out under a partial lunar eclipse showing millions of start in the sky overhead.

Once again, I awoke before sunrise, marveling at the beautiful gradient created as night gradually turned to day. I walked back out to the road, determined to catch a lift this time. By this far north, the heat during the day was becoming a bit difficult to take in direct sunlight, and so I sought shelter under a small tree, shaded from the harsh sun but still only a foot or so from the road. Lazily I wrote in my notebook, listened to music, and held out my thumb. I did not have a care in the world, sure by now that I would eventually get a lift, only waiting until it would eventually reveal itself. Today I was in luck, and a car stopped after only three hours of waiting. The driver, an older gentleman, seemed to be a bit hard of hearing; when I asked how far he was heading, he replied rather brusquely, "Further than you." He, as it turns out, was headed all the way to Katherine, some 1000kms away. I happily jumped in this car, and away we went. The ride was rather uneventful, although he turned out to be one of the most racist people I have ever met- that's something, coming from experience hitching around the US. We did not speak much, though occasionally I mumbled incoherent agreement when he would spout out something about the blackfella ruining the country, stealing the land, fleecing the government, etc. The ride was worth a bit of intolerance, and I chose not to speak up for my true beliefs in the interest of getting where I was going.

Which brings me to Katherine, where I spent last night and again will spend tonight. Sitting by a pool, relaxing, not a care in the world. I'm 300kms from Darwin, and my flight leaves the day after tomorrow. I'll hit the road in the mid morning tomorrow, stay a night in Darwin, and by the following evening I should be in Singapore. I've already lined up a couchsurfing host there for a few days, and then it's off back to Amsterdam and the Casa. I can't wait.

Made it to Katherine

2010-06-27T22:18:00.001-07:00

I've hitched 4200 of the 4500 kms to Darwin- it is the 28th, and my flight leaves on the 1st. That means I've still got two days to hitch the remaining 300kms. There are also trains and busses, if I somehow manage to fail at this. Just wanted to let everyone know, I am alive, well (mostly, a lil dehydrated) and totally out of my mind.

Love and miss ya!

2010-06-20T05:43:00.000-07:00

I'm back in Perth- I've spent the past few nights in Fremantle at Eva, John, and Bruno's house couchsurfing along with Helene. I met Helene in Denmark, Western Australia while I was couchsurfing and she WWOOFing. We came up here together thanks to a lift from the owner of the farm, Helene intending to stick around for a while, my plans being to leave immediately and head north. That was Wednesday. Everyone in the house was wonderful, as were the many friends I met (Father Dominic and Martina, especially). I could have stayed longer, was certainly given the option to, but with just over a week to go, and nearly 4000km to hitch, I must get going. I will head out at 6AM to a truck stop north of the city, and begin asking truck drivers, car drivers, and generally anyone whom might be headed north if I can possibly catch a lift. I'm not really concerned that I won't make it (my flight out of Darwin leaves the evening of the 1st of July), just that I could get stuck and have to push my thumb further than I really want to (hitching at night, for instance). The danger comes from the long distance between everything, I could get stuck catching only one or two lifts a day (at five hours/ride), which means I won't be covering much ground daily. That being said, there are only a dozen or so significant stops between Perth and Darwin via the Great Northern Highway. If I don't make it...I've got a flight from Singapore to Amsterdam on the 5th of July, which I really do not want to miss. Also, my Australian visa expires on the 9th of July, if everything else falls through.

2010-06-17T22:10:00.000-07:00

A new Blog Editor

Let's see if this one works better than the last few...

A day in the life of a WWOOFer...

2010-06-11T22:51:00.000-07:00

I woke up around 7:30- work wouldn't start until half past eight. With some premade batter from the prior evening, I cooked up pancakes for myself, the Belgian, Japanese, and three French WWOOFers who's 'house' I was staying in. We walked up the hill together, reaching the worksite and breaking into pairs to get to work. This particular site is building a house out of mud bricks- nothing fancy, really just home-made bricks. I spent the day (5 hours of work) moving 20lb bricks around, laying them down with mortar, leveling them, and moving on.

After five hours, we (my partner and I) had placed 15 bricks.

Seriously.

A bit of pre-planning would have gone a long way with this sort of project- for example, using a level on an uneven brick is like trying to nail in a piece of cooked spaghetti. The bricks DID have one flat side, which I was promptly told was the bottom... Being new to the project, and seeing as my partner was the owner of the estate, I chose not to discuss the merit of leveling out an object with a top profile similar to a gravel road.

Otherwise, a great day. I realized about halfway through that in my past two years of travel I have...

Laid brick (Australia), built a house with rebar-reinforced cinderblock (poland), done remodeling and furniture construction (California), and performed emergency plumbing repair (Scotland). My skillset is becoming quite varied. I can't wait to build my own house (on wheels!)

Denmark...Wait, what?

2010-06-10T21:05:00.000-07:00

I made it! Denmark, WA that is. I'm going to be meeting my host in a few minutes, but I wanted to shoot a quick update- I'm still alive! I'm going to be working out how many KMs I've hitched (and then convert to Miles) soon. Other than that...life is great, things are good, I'm healthy, (somewhat) wealthy, and...

Two outta three ain't bad, right?

That's all for now, hope everyone is doing well and enjoying life.

Tony's

2010-06-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

I walked a few Kms out of Mandurah- all the way to Miami, in fact. Apparently the developers around here are so lacking in creativity they need to 'borrow' US cities for new names, go figure. After two DELICIOUS pies (Cajun Chicken and 'huntsman'- emu, kangaroo, and buffalo), I headed out to the road. My first lift was only going a few KMs down the road, but would get me over the bridge (wherever that was). As it was late in the day, I mentioned camping, and he dropped me at the entrance to a national park, on the way to his destination. As I got out, shouldering my pack, he shouted out the car window, "Hey, do you like bourbon?" I smiled, confirmed my interest, and proceeded to walk into the bush. "If you hear some hollering later, you're more than welcome to stop by," he says, "assuming my mate is up to it." I thank him and walk off into the bush, ditching my pack and climbing a dune to watch the fading sun and enjoy the freedom after being in Perth for nearly a week with the dreaded (and RIDICULOUSLY racist) Brits.

No sooner had I settled in, a shrill whistle pierced the calm air. I looked over, and there was Sean, my lift, with his friend, whom would soon be introduced to me as Tony. I scampered down the dune, grabbed my pack, and walked over to where the two were teeing off from Tony's front yard. Along the way (100 yards or so), I passed a few wild roos (kangaroos) whom simply stared at me. After a quick introduction, they asked if I had seen any roos out in the bush, and were apparently trying out some target practice with a sand wedge. Personally, I would have preferred a 3 wood for a straighter ballistic profile, but I'm no golfer.

Darts, Pool, homemade bourbon, and lively intelligent conversation set the tone for the next four days. Sean departed on the third, but I stuck around for an extra, getting the opportunity to meet Ronnie, Tony's wife. Amidst all of the festivities and fun, we had conversations ranging from hunting to survival, dirtbikes, computers, politics, religion (and the problems it's caused), to politics (and the problems it's caused). In many ways, Tony reminded me of Steve, minus the engineering background and machine shop. I had a true blast, and have been invited back anytime.

Perth- Brit expat central

2010-06-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

A few I don't mind. The Irish are great. But for the love of all, why are there so many Brits in Perth? I couldn't take it anymore, after getting my package (THANKS MOM!), sending my stuff home (it'll take a while- $60 for a 7lb package the SLOW WAY?!), I bailed. I'm currently enjoying the hospitality of Tony...

Paul

2010-05-31T21:11:00.001-07:00

As the driver passed, he gestured apothetically- there is simply no room. I've seen it a hundred times, and totally understand the sentiment. I smiled and waved in appreciation of the acknowledgement, glad that he at least made eye contact and WOULD have picked me up if not for the full car. As I turned back to face the empty road, I heard the squeal of tires sliding over loose gravel behind me; he had stopped. I gathered my things, quickly stuffing my still-damp sandals into the side of my bag and rushing towards the car; I never expected a lift to actually happen. I saw him arranging and stuffing bags, trying to make room for me and my cargo. As I approached, I thanked him and asked where he was headed. Perth! I haven't grinned so widely in a while, as I confessed that I was also headed in that direction. With my ruck on my lap, my legs splayed over my duffel, we pulled away from the gravel, embarking on a three day, 2000km drive from Port Augusta to Perth. This will turn out to be the greatest lift I've ever had, to date.

A drifting mind.

2010-05-23T18:29:00.000-07:00

Every so often, someone asks me when my 'trip' is going to 'end.' I chuckle, and explain my thoughts on the inevitability of settling down (which I occasionally consider a possibility) along with the spontaneity of it's occurance. "I'll travel until I don't, and then I won't travel," I say, smiling, "well, mostly."

I turned 26 a few days ago, marking two full years on the road (I recall landing in Ireland on the 23rd of May, 2008). People keep reminding me of my age, and how much time I have to explore everything. Age itself no longer truly matters; The experience of an 18 year old may prove to be just as wise as the sagely advice of a 70 year old grandfather.
I feel old. Thanks to everyone for the birthday wishes, and it was a super treat to be able to conference-call and get the whole family on Skype- I'll add some credit so we can do that again.

In travel news, I'm still in Adelaide, extending my stay due to weather (that's my current excuse). Really I just couldn't be bothered to pack my bag today. From here, I'll be hitching to Port Augusta, where I hope to catch a ride all the way to Perth, thousands of kms away. I'll try to catch a lift with a trucker ('truckie' in Aussie), as they're usually pretty bored and will apreciate having someone to talk to. That's the theory, anyway. Anything can happen on the road.

Oh, and should I spend July 4th in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or fly to Frankfurt ( and possibly hitch to friends)? Life's full of tough choices...

Am I in California?

2010-05-20T22:48:00.001-07:00

A train, tram, regional train, and a 4km walk later, and I'm back on the road! I headed towards Torquay and the great ocean road, planning to make my way to Adelaide. The first guy who picked me up, Rob, ended up bringing me to a winery where he worked. I spent the night at the winery, partying with the german and french guys working there. I got a lift with Stefan, from East Germany, to Torquay and the start of the great ocean road, the next day.

My first lift up the Great Ocean Road (easily the most beautiful) was a group of Indians whom did not speak much English. They gave me a lift to Apollo Bay, where I cooked some lunch (Quinoa), and hiked out. A few short lifts found me at a caravan park approaching sunset, and I camped for the night. At the roadhouse (caravan park/pub/hotel/bistro/cafe/gasstop) I discovered Carlton Dark, a pretty good (on tap) local dark.
Progress became slow as I made my way towards the end of the Great Ocean Road, gaining little over a hundred kms and camping in the small farming village of Yumbak.

I had promised mom that I would contact her for my birthday, so I needed to be somewhere internet-enabled to make contact. I figured the 500kms to Adelaide would be reachable in a day, if I started off early. By 8AM, I was on the road. Donny gave me a lift to Portland, during which I learned that South Africa really can be as dangerous as I've been lead to believe. A little while waiting on the side of the highway and I caught a lift in to Heywood, waiting again an hour or more before catching a horse-trainer transporting one of his horses to a race in Mt Gambier. He actually offered me a lift to Adelaide, as one of the guys who worked for him was driving up in the morning. We swapped numbers, and I promised I would call if I found myself in need. By then I had begun to realize that unless I caught a lucky long-distance lift, I was not going to have a chance to make it to Adelaide. I started walking uphill from the race course, a 7km hike out of town. Two kms down the road, A contractor picked me up, offering a lift into town. Along the way, we did a bit of sightseeing.

[Insert Pictures]

I was dropped at the outer edge of Mt. Gambiers, having passed a McDonalds not far away. I considered walking back that way, as most of the McDs here offer free WiFi- A flushing toilet was a brief second in the back of my mind somewhere. I decided to risk it, pushing ahead. Heath gave me a lift to his hometown 30kms down the line, and then decided to give me an extra 100km. He had, years ago, picked up a Dutch hitch-hiker traveling the same route I was on. They became friends, and the Dutch guy lived with him for a few months. Ever since, Heath's been pretty good about giving hospitality towards travelers. You really never know who you might meet. A final lift a few kms out to the countryside saw me settle in for a long haul.

Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne

2010-05-12T03:15:00.001-07:00

I grabbed a standby car from Brisbane to Sydney, camping out along the way and taking a paying passenger (cute Taiwanese girl). I couchsurfed with an aussie naval officer in sydney for a few days before heading south yet again. She was unfortunately on-duty, so she couldn't drink- instead I was fed food and beer, given lifts, and watched some footie (TV).
Getting out of Sydney, I took a suburban train, stuck out my thumb, and away I went! A quick lift from two Maori boys who were pretty chill, then a guy whom had seen me at the first spot but couldn't get over. A 28 year old gave me a lift from the edge of town to a little village 20kms away, where I camped for the night by a creek (FAR too close to houses). Waking, I hit the road with an older woman a hundred or so KMs down the road, after being offered some hospitality- she'd been hitch-hiking all around Australia since she was 14, and is mid-50s now. The 32yrld couple were pretty awesome, again offering hospitality. A hunter just returning from a few weeks in the bush gave me a lift over the border with Victoria, and dropped me in Genoa...Australia. A sweet grandmother gave me a lift to Mallacoota, stopping at a beautiful lakeside town beforehand to show me around a bit. I camped on the beach in mallacoota for two days- it was rainy and fairly miserable, but I had fun nonetheless. Lots of thinking and stretching. Oh, and I ate prawns (shrimp) by accident in some fried rice. I was kinda disturbed when I realized that, but they didn't taste bad. I wonder what my revulsion with seafood is all about?
Getting a quick lift (after walking 2km down the road) back to Genoa, I got a convoy pull over! Larry (fr) and Marie (de) in Larry's car, where my bag went. Alex (de) and laura (de) were in the big SUV loaded down, and in I hopped. We drove aaaall the way to Wilson's prom, and camped in a caravan park for two nights. The camping was fun, albeit wet, and I hit it off with Larry pretty well. On our way out, I paid my share of the caravan camping fees, and was politely put off. I was initially peeved, but realized that I was getting nowhere trying to engage any of the germans in conversation. Three highschool students gave me a lift to Inverloch, where I caught another a few moments later. My final lift drove me 134ks to a surburb of Melbourne, where I caught a suburban train in.

Unbooked flights

2010-04-24T23:40:00.000-07:00

$560 Singapore to Frankfurt on July 5th

$255 Amsterdam to Iceland Sept 12th

$307 Iceland to JFK Oct 5th.
I might chop a month off mainland Europe to head back to the US early...

Flight to europe

2010-04-13T21:55:00.001-07:00

$550 Singapore to Frankfurt. Schweet. Need to book...

Hey, do you need a lift...

2010-04-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

is what they said. I was walking down the street, pack on my back, waiting to find the bus which would take me to Palmerston, the spot wher I was to begin my hitch-hiking trip to Brisbane. These two women (one Italian, one Belgian) are doing a road trip to Cairns, eventually to Byron Bay, and were wondering if I wanted to come along. Without any real hesitation, I agreed, and as of tomorrow I'm joining the roadtrip, along with a Danish guy, to the East Coast. We're sharing fuel, food, and driving costs, but it will end up costing not a whole lot, and it'll be a heck of an adventure. Afterwards, I'll kick it with SJ for a while in Brisbane (The friend I met in Bangkok), and head out towards either Melbourne or Western Australia. Apparently it's fairly inexpensive (~3k) to pick up a van, and it can be re-sold for near the same price (more if you know how to ::cough:: massage a vehicle). I think that might be a good idea, for as I do enjoy hitch-hiking and the random adventures, it will also be a good intro to van dwelling, which I am so set on when I return to the states.

Of course, just as quickly as today changed, everything else can change just as quickly. Who knows what tomorrow may hold?

Singapore

2010-04-09T00:12:00.000-07:00

12 hours of beer. That's about the best way to describe yesterday, leading in to last night, and early-ish this morning. I started around 1:30 in the afternoon, ironically at the very same cafe which I am currently at, meeting up with a couchsurfer and his friend for some beer tasting. A few good pints later (Irish red, oatmeal stout, pils, Bock, and a few ales between the three of us), we headed to another brewery for a less-than-great pint of local pils. Between beers and chatting, we somehow managed to use six hours relaxing and enjoying eachothers' company. While the other two went to work and study, I met up with another group of slightly more party-inclined CSers and ended up wandering for a WHILE to find an appropriate bar. We did, eventually, and I managed to mildly embarass myself with some inebriated karaoke. No harm, no foul.

All in all, Singapore has been an expensive, but fun, stopover. I'll be passing back through on my way out of Australia in June/July, and will definitely stick around for a few days to have some more fun.

Tomorrow, Darwin!

Political Rant

2010-03-02T22:26:00.000-08:00

So I was looking back over my old Email, at some I've received from a certain close ultra-conservative...

Do people really think that political party/association matters for crap in the US?

I mean, honestly, both 'sides of the aisle' have been screwing the American People for so long they don't seem to know anything but arguing. When was the last time we a unified government attempting to do 'good' things for the people? Instead of just fighting the other side, how about some constructive criticism and maybe a suggestion or two? "Obama is a socialism" and "Bush is destroying our country" are great slogans and all, but they really REALLY aren't getting anything done.

The next time I see a comparison between ANYONE and Hitler, be it Bush, Obama, or Lincoln, I'm going to rip them to pieces (verbally).

I believe in small government. So do the Republicans. So why do they keep increasing everything? Same for the democrats- What good do free handouts do to people whom already aren't working? It encourages people to learn about...how to game the system. And trust me, it's REALLY REALLY easy.

And the people...You want someone to blame, forget the government. If you want change, take it in your hands. Sitting behind your computer screens, blogging away about this and that really isn't going to get things done. Know how they did it in the 60s? A little bit of suffering, some discomfort. Take to the streets, show exactly what you want to change. When some of this happens, you get the right to complain.

That being said, I'm not doing much better. I take as much blame as I give.

Okay, that's all. Time to go outside and enjoy the fruits of my labors. Yes, that's right, I was fortunate enough to have parents whom were my financial assistance for university. I do what I do now on money I made working my butt off as a highly trained engineer. That's fairness. You want something? You've got to work for it.

Ice cream

2010-03-02T18:03:00.001-08:00

I'm sitting in a little Thai cafe eating some delicious ice cream and listening to an acoustic version of 'summer of 69'. This is what I mean about the vibe- it's addictively relaxing and low key. I've found people to climb with, check out hot springs, go hiking, and even go touring with. The only thing lacking is a craft brewery. Hmmm...Now that wouldn't be a terrible idea, I wonder how hard ingredients are to get around here.
Also, for lunch I had aome exquisite vegetarian khoh soi, which is apprently the traditional dish of chiang mai. Well, I'd love to write more, but the ice cream is going to melt. Till next time!

Freeloading: What does it really cost?

2010-02-28T04:19:00.000-08:00

**WORK IN PROGRESS**

I am working on an essay on freeloading, and I will be saving it here to get feedback from friends/family/etc. So please, do comment!

Stealing is a great way to get something for nothing, but what does it cost? For one, the financial loss from whomever you stole from. The loss of trust in others, and the new burden to secure your goods against further loss, compounds both the social and financial implications. If successful, you may also have learned an important lesson: you don't need to work to get what you need, you can just steal it. Suddenly society has lost whatever benefits you may have been able to bestow with your productivity. Stealing is a severe example of freeloading, but what about, perhaps, couchsurfing? Staying at another's home for free, without contributing anything to the homeowner. Dumpster diving is great in terms of reducing the amount of waste generated, but when taken to the extreme can be nearly the same as stealing, in the affect it has on the producer of whatever it is you are diving. The mother of all, of course, is welfare: necessary for those whom truly cannot work and/or provide for themselves, but disastrous for those whom are intelligent enough to find a way to exploit the system, and yet realize that there is more personal gain to NOT working than to actually pull their own weight. Through these examples, the negative impact of freeloading can be shown to be downright disastrous when embraced by the masses.
    Couch-surfing is an amazing way to travel to a foreign land. The ability to stay with locals and attain quick local knowledge of an area is priceless. This comes as a second concern to many, whom see this as simply a free way to stay. What about the hosts, however? Not only do they pay rent, utilities, food and whatnot, but in hosting a surfer, they are eating in to their own time. This loss of time, privacy, and financial burden to support people becomes significant, especially in highly traveled areas. Many initially love the ability to host travelers of afar, but become jaded when the see surfer after surfer pass through, eat their food, stay for a night or two, smile, and leave. This type of behavior, in addition to be an exploitation of a host's hospitality, can be damaging to the reputation of others, especially those legitimately interested in a hospitality and/or cultural exchange. Perhaps bringing a gift, even an insignificant token, or helping out with chores could mitigate this downward trend.
    Dumpster diving, a cornerstone of non-consumerism, is an amazing way to re-use waste. However, the choice between dumpster diving and supporting local merchants, farmers, and everyone along that chain can become somewhat less clear when indirect financial matters are taken into account. For example, quality. When you dumpster dive, you have no choice in what you get. However, as a paying customer, you are able to dictate your terms and speak with your actions. Additionally, in financially supporting a farmer or market, you give them feedback as to what you would like to have. The farmer is then able to use your financial contribution to better their products, which will ultimately benefit you. This cooperative cycle is called COMMERCE, and it has allowed for everything from rice in Alaska to cell phones in Sudan. Without this exchange of goods, cultures would be restricted to their own natural resources- all fine and dandy, if you have everything you need with you. By the way, where is the majority of oil coming from nowadays?
    Food stamps are insulting to the vast majority of Americans whom are able to, and do, work for what they have, and are more damaging than many people can imagine. The very act of training a population that they can HAVE, without any sort of reciprocal contribution, removes the incentive to work in the future. While we may all enjoy taking a day off once in a while, it is through the hard work of everyone from engineers to light duty specialists that the level of comfort in the society we live is maintained. Imagine if Bill Gates never had felt the need to work very hard and pursue his goal of financial freedom. Would you like to be sitting in front of a computer typing everything in to a blinking cursor on a black-and-green console screen? I think not.
   The up-front costs of freeloading, to the individual doing it, are obvious- something for nothing. The background costs, and the cascading effect which is has on society, are catastrophic when viewed in the long term.

It's incredibly rough, but begins to get the idea across. I've got more examples, etc I'm working on. So, feedback?

Chiang Mai

2010-02-26T19:55:00.000-08:00

"your previous short texts in blog - people have invented twitter for that"- Agnese

So I had some plans, and then they changed, and then they changed again...Guess what's new...

I think I'm going to stick around here for a while. As a number of folks I've met over the past few days have put it, there's a good vibe around here. I'm going to a party tonight, went to someone's birthday last night, and have just been really hanging out. It's hot during the day (30s) and cool at night (16ish), which is perfect for me. I also connected with some older couchsurfers yesterday over coffee and snacks and have gotten some great info on hiking in the area, as well as one guy whom is keen to do some motorcycle touring. Yeah, I'm learning to ride a motorcycle. It's fun.

Also, I got an invite to go stay w/a woman from Seattle living here for the past few months- she's got a spare room, and is looking for a rock climbing partner. SCORE. So, I'll connect with her in a non-bar setting (it was a double birthday party) and see how that runs.

Other than that, things are going well. Still healthy and all that. On a positive note, I can get medical/dental work done here SUPER cheap. Y'know, if I needed any (fortunately, i don't).

I'm still planning on heading over to Manila at the end of March, and somehow making my way to Australia afterwards...Timetables and what are fluid, as usual.

Thailand

2010-02-21T23:05:00.000-08:00

So, I said I'd stick around Ton Sai for a few days, maybe a week...12 days later, I'm back in Bangkok. I had a LOT of fun down in Ton Sai/Railay/deserted island in the middle of the ocean. Lots of funny stories....

The Island
Train down
Bungalows
Water
LIZARD
The German, Austrians, Mexicans, and all the rest.
Climbing, of course.

I'll type up these stories as I get to them, but for now, I've got to go enjoy Bangkok for it's being...well, bangkok. I'm healthy, wealthy (well, relatively), and...uhh, Thom, the dutch guy, thinks I'm smart. So all things considered, I'm doing pretty well.

Tentative outline of possible future plans:

Bum around northern Thailand
[maybe] make my way to Laos
[hopefully] hitch around Cambodia
Pass back through Bangkok
Head south, check out Koh Lipe
More climbing at Ton Sai
Head for Malaysia->Kuala Lumpur
Flight to Manila ~march 23ish
See Steph
Explore Philippines, Indonesia,
Head for Oz
Flight back to KL or BKK
Flight to wherever I can get to cheaply in Europe

Attend 6/8/10 hitch-hiking conference
hitch around Scandinavia
Return home ~September

At least, that's the theory. Save this one, we'll see how far I deviate.