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 […]
Best Everyday Outfits for Travel
If you’re like me, part of the fun of traveling is shopping for your trip! Every new adventure warrants a new outfit. But I don’t want to waste money or fabric for travel items. I want to make purchases I can also wear in my everyday life! Traveling to Kenya in 2019, I bought a jacket […]
Tattoos
On my first trip to Costa Rica, I was surprised at how many people had tattoos! Even teenagers as young as 12 had tattoos up and down their arms. Although there are laws about how old you can be to get a tattoo, with a parent’s consent there’s really no limit. On my second trip […]
Today I Took the Train
Today I took the train. I love train travel. Amtrak, if you’re listening, I’m not an influencer but I could become one for you! As a kid, my favorite birthday present was a day trip to Chicago from Kewanee, IL. I loved seeing all the small towns pass by and visiting the snack car. If […]
What to Wear on a Mission Trip
Would you believe me if I said clothing can hold people back from serving in missions? It’s true though. The two questions that are repeated to me most when planning mission trips are: For anyone who has served others, whether locally or globally, these are hardly the most important questions to ask! Nevertheless, they often […]
Shopping!
One of my favorite things to watch when I’m scrolling on TikTok is how people in other countries live. Seeing locals and expats walk around their towns is so fascinating! I love noticing the differences in how life is set up, especially things like streets, transportation, and stores. So when the head teacher asked if […]
Rainbow
Everything in Costa Rica is beautiful. At every turn there’s a mountain, tree canopy, cotton candy clouds, and vibrant flowers. Yet I’m still amazed at the neverending gifts of God through the nature he created here. A simple rain shower is more beautiful against the backdrop of luscious greenery. The setting sun sets the sky […]