I booked flights! So, why blog about that?

The start to something?

This is weird. I have been traveling most all my adult life. Once I finished college I jumped on a plane to Europe and have been traveling the globe ever since. Heck this blog was created in 2004 and called “Tom Sawyer’s Travels”. I even have a suitcase named “Big Red” and everyone who has ever traveled with me knows that name. Now, today, I booked a set of flights. The first flights I have booked in 2 years and my first overnight trip since last September. Why is this so weird?

I am booking this trip with the thought in the back of my mind that it may not happen. I really hope that it does but in the state of the world now I am not sure. However, if I don’t book something then nothing will happen. So, I am flying into the US in September and have three stops. This is mostly a work trip, the New Normal thingy. I have a line up of interview guests in Denver and NYC. There is also a work meeting happening in Denver and a little family visit in New Orleans. Traveling alone is nothing strange to me. I am now thinking which suitcase to take; Big Red maybe? He’s coming into retirement age so maybe not. What to pack? How to get to the airport? All these questions.

The last year was really strange. I lost a job and begun a new phase. I stopped travel for almost a year. My kids are beginning, slowly, to leave the nest and all in a global pandemic. I am very excited to see the people I have lined up to meet with, to interview and to enjoy a meal with. That will be the best part. 5 flights, 5 airports, trains, planes and automobiles and of course bikes. I have biking planned already into every stop! That is my New Normal; adding a lifestyle into my work style and not the other way around.

Check back in here during August and September. There are travels happening and meals to be enjoyed. Stay safe!

/Andrew