Today I Saw a Capybara
Today I saw a capybara. A real capybara in the wild! Well, kind of. It was at a Garden and Home store in Costa Rica, something similar to the Garden section at a Home Depot or Lowes. Does that count as in the wild? It wasn’t the store’s pet, to my knowledge. And the store […]
In Honor of Gabe
Then Written in the days following Gabe’s passing, in August 2025. I’m not quite sure where to begin. So here’s a list of memories, plans, expressions, ideas, and other thoughts about Gabe, whose life ended too soon and in an unimaginable way. I expect this will not be my easiest-to-follow blog. Instead, a collection of […]
Global Entry
I finally did it! After years of saying, I really need to get TSA Pre-check, I enrolled in Global Entry for that perk and more. If you aren’t familiar with Global Entry, it’s kind of like TSA Pre-check but for entering the country. It’s an expedited route through customs and immigration. During my first return […]
Today I Learned a New Time Zone
Today I learned a new time zone. My first trip of 2026 took me, along with my husband Matt, to Newfoundland and Labrador to visit some friends. It was my first time in this part of Canada. And my first time to the northeast at all! I expected to be amazed by what I would […]
Today I Choose Curiosity
“I can’t believe they’re spraying gas on the plane!” The words came from an inexperienced flyer seated around me. I looked out the window curiously, wondering what could have possibly made her think that was happening. When you’re sitting at the gate ready to take off, there’s a lot going on. Meals and snacks are […]
An Unexpected Gift of Cross-Cultural Communication
One of the many blessings and excitements of my work is the opportunity to travel to a different culture, over and over again. I’ve visited the same community of San Ramón, Costa Rica five times over the course of two years. The more I am there, the more I can see the gifts of this […]
My Favorite Airlines of 2025
I love to fly! Probably about as much as I love to ride the train. In 2025 I’ve taken 21 flights so far and have 6 more scheduled before the end of the year. With this much time in the sky, I’ve figured out which airlines and airports are my favorites (and least favorites) for […]
Today I Went Snorkeling
Today I went snorkeling. Off the coast of Costa Rica, I jumped into the water to see what was below. This is the third time I’ve snorkeled. The two other experiences were magical. My first time was in Hawaii on a family vacation when I was a child. I vividly remember swimming in a lagoon […]
5 Ways Costa Rica Surprised Me
Before going to Costa Rica for the first time in 2023, I considered myself reasonably well-traveled. Growing up we took family vacations–mostly road trips as good Midwesterners do. As an adult I’ve spent time on 3 continents, 8 countries, and many of the 50 states. I’ve taken planes, trains, buses, ferry boats, and cruise ships. […]
4 Reasons FSM is the Best First Mission Trip
It might be a bold statement, but I truly believe Faithful Servant Missions in San Ramón, Costa Rica is the best first mission trip. Whether you’re a new or experienced traveler, new to faith or walking with Jesus for years, or any age! I’ve been on international short-term mission trips with organizations in Kenya, Dominican […]