Secrets of Time Traveling

In the morning, being 6–9 timezone hours ahead of the ones you love is like waking up at 4am while the rest of your house is still asleep. You simmer in the silence and find consolation knowing that your loved ones are tucked safely in their beds.
I will say that I miss acting unabashedly weird with my friends. I miss having philosophical conversations with my dad. I miss sitting on my parents’ deck, feeding squirrels with my mom. I wouldn’t classify that as being “homesick,” though. Rather, I feel a renewed sense of appreciation and awe for the blessings in my life. The mere thought of sharing a Thanksgiving meal with my family makes me smile. I’m able to look forward to what lies ahead, while still appreciating the gift of this present moment.

More Expert Travel Tips
- Bring a toothbrush and toothpaste with you at all times. It’s like having a shower available for your mouth 24/7.
- Ladies, sports bras will be your best friend during extended traveling. If you’re going to spend hours walking around, you might as well give the girls a queen bed to sleep in.
- Don’t bring a bag that says “NAKED Grape” into a church. I shouldn’t have to take the time to explain that to you — but someone should have taken the time to explain that to me. Could’ve avoided a lot of stares.
- Most places in Europe have washers, but no dryers. Do not — I repeat, DO NOT — place even slightly damp clothes in your drawer overnight. Your clothes will smell of body odor and sweet sorrow in the morning.
- Appreciate where you are and the gifts you’ve been given. There are people fighting for their lives against a hurricane right now.
- Realize your mother was right — it would’ve been nice to have an extra pair of pants to wear for the day while you wash the other two.
- Dang it, Mom.

