Happy 250!

Imagine being brave enough to start your own country. Lately, that idea can sound tempting at times. For most of my life, I’ve felt like the “cool kid on the block” because I was born in, and live in, the USA. I hate to admit it, but there are moments now when I feel a little embarrassed to say I’m from the United States—because of the way we interact with other countries, respond to groups that challenge us, and even treat one another.

Even with all of that, I am still proud to call this country home. Pride does not mean pretending every decision is wise or every action appropriate. It means believing we are capable of doing better—and caring enough to want us to. Like any big, complicated family, we can be messy, stubborn, and occasionally embarrassing, but we also have heart, resilience, and the ability to learn from our missteps. Perhaps we will learn!

I want to take this opportunity to say that I’m very proud of, and appreciative of, the people who put their lives in danger—or sacrifice their lives—for our freedom and protection. I’m so thankful for the people who pass up more lucrative careers to serve in roles where their talents are needed because they feel called to help the greater good. I’m also grateful for all the volunteers who make so many opportunities possible for the rest of us. All of these efforts make this home so special.

As I continue to explore beautiful places both at home and abroad, I’ve given my website a little refresh, with new updates featuring the Azores and Mount Desert Island—two beautiful places. Later this year, I’ll be exploring even more national parks on my adventure list, and I’ll share some of that as well.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have seen so much of this wildly beautiful country—and even more grateful that I get to keep exploring it.

Juvenile Bald Eagle - Alaska