Facts: I traveled to Taiwan for two weeks in late October then 3 weeks to Germany in December and now I'm going around the world for 5 weeks. Why do I do this alone?
First off, I have a great wife. We recently celebrated our 47th wedding anniversary. She knows how much I love to travel AND I think that she either totally supports me pursuing my dreams OR she loves it when I'm gone.
Secondly, I'm never alone. Through all my travels my family, especially my daughter is with me. I've been sooooo fortunate to travel with my kids. Just before I left on this adventure my daughter, my sweetie, left me a voice message while I was sleeping (because I had a friggin 0535 flight that brought tears to my eyes. Also, my travels with my son and wife are seared (in a good way) into my mind. I travel because when I meet other people around the world, it gives me hope. I also travel with the thoughts of the rest of my family and of my friends.
Tonight, in Tokyo (half way around the Earth), after wandering the streets and getting some awesome photos, I'm back at the hotel and thinking of my wife, my kids, and my friends. I'm here drinking some Sake and Asahi beer AND listening to Joni Mitchell.. I wish you all well.
As a scientist, I travel to observe and understand. The world is now (has been forever) crazy and getting crazier. My previous travels have clearly taught me that everyone is similar but that governments are different (unhinged, crazy, etc., etc.). I feel comfortable dealing directly interacting with people and in ALL my travels I've concluded that we're all the same.
So, thanks to my wife, JoAnn, that either loves me so much to encourage me to do this or loves the time off from me (I'm afraid to guess which one). Either way, I'm doing this and I hope that you will follow this journey.
So far, I've had two awesome days. And after all this, if you can't tell, I'm an incredibly lucky man and I love my wife, and kids dearly (and a few of you as well, except Chip because he's a putz.)
Until next time, be safe, be kind and peace out people.