*Featured in Bradt Travel Guide’s 2025 “Kindness of Strangers” story collection. Every teen driver in my hometown dreaded the name Jack Lithgo, a timeworn gatekeeper who stood between us and the open road.  Before surviving a five-lane freeway merge, we had to endure his driver’s ed classes, infamous for all the wrong, soul-crushing reasons. On Continue reading

“I’m going to charge you for making photos of my restaurant,” smirks a Dutchman, swinging the service door open and stepping out beside us onto the sidewalk. A waft of coffee beans and the sound of clanking dishes escape narrowly with him. He is outfitted in all black except for the colorful sleeve tattoo running Continue reading

We arrive at San Elijo Lagoon, leaving the Sunday Scarries back at home to wallow. This coastal estuary hosts a new act of wonder minute by minute upon the wetland stage. Wandering rivers catch the glare of the sun for its last call of the day.  Fast and furious all three of my little birds Continue reading

“I don’t know anyone else who would do what you’re doing,” said my sister. “Yeah because they’re smart!” I replied.  “Bon courage!” texted my supportive friend, Annelise.  “Will you be traveling alone…just you?” asked the Virgin Airlines agent, unaware of the tears behind my eyes.  “Coffee or tea?” inquired the British flight attendant. What a Continue reading