A very personal post as to why I do what I am doing.

People usually give me one of two reactions when I tell them that I am road tripping on my own, camping out on my own, sleeping in the back of my truck, etc.

The first is my favorite - they get all excited and high five me and say "Way to go!" and "Good for you".  Someone even called me a rockstar once.  They say that is so awesome, etc.  I agree with them, I think it is awesome ;)  (And I suppose I'll take the rockstar thing too!  Hehe.)  Those are the people who get it.  They understand.  Those are my people!

And the second reaction I don't mind so much because it just reinforces what I am doing and who I am.  The second reaction is shock, they think I'm crazy, they think I shouldn't be doing it, etc.  I've had people, not quite several but definitely more than a few, have told me that it's not something a woman should be doing.  Some people can't imagine how I could stand to go on my own, that I must get so lonely, etc.  Depending on who it is I might explain a little more or a little less.  But I rarely ever go very deep into the explanation as I will right now. 

Perhaps I am a little crazy.  It's ok, I'm at peace with that.  I would rather live my life with a little crazy in it that play it safe all the time and not have any adventures or experiences.  I don't like to set limits for myself.  I like to stretch my limits and see what I am really capable of.  I like to know that I can live out of my truck for a month.  I like to know that I can be independent and not relying on someone all the time.  I don't think that someone shouldn't do something just because people don't think a woman should do it.  If anything that's reason enough to DO it!  Prove them wrong.  Prove to yourself that they are wrong.  Prove to yourself that you can do anything you set your mind to.

Also, when I go by myself I only have myself to answer to.  Don't get me wrong, I absolutely LOVE traveling with my friends and loved ones.  Especially those fun all-girls trips!  However, it's always a completely different type of experience.  Both are excellent experiences and both have their place.

When I am by myself, I often let my heart and eye and camera lens lead the way.  When I see a scene or see the direction of light or amazing clouds, I follow my heart and eye and guide my camera to where my eye leads.  That is a freedom of vision and art that just does not happen when traveling with others.  It usually makes others annoyed with me, actually.  ;)

 But really, this time is about art, vision, photography, perspective, life, and freedom.  It is time used not only to see new places that I've always wanted to see, but also to refresh my soul, re-energize my spirit, and remind me of what is really important in life.  I know that I will go back home a changed person.  Every experience changes us.  What is important is how you embrace that change.  I know that when I go back, I will probably sleep for 3 days straight.  But when that's over, I will be so ready to tackle the next challenge with so much more vigor than I would have before I left.  But for now, I am not thinking about the future.  I'm focusing on the now.  Being in the moment.  Experiencing all there is to experience on my little adventure.

I sincerely hope everyone gets a chance to follow their feet/wheels and heart and eye and whatever leads you. Don't be afraid to do what you want to do.  Don't listen to the limits other people apply to you.  They don't know you and they don't know your limitations.  Be your own rule maker!  :-D

And with that... I am off to the Grand Canyon.

I wish you all a week (and a life) full of adventure and heart and passion!

Keep on truckin!