About
Originally from Des Moines, Iowa, I have been living in the twin cities area since 2004. I have worked as an information security consultant and currently work in the field of third party risk management. I like to think and dream big. One of my biggest dreams is to take 6-12 months off from work and travel around the world. Another goal I am pursuing to live in a different country for 3-5 years. Additionally, to broaden my horizons and give myself a challenge, I am currently attempting to become fluent in Mandarin Chinese. Chinese is a difficult language to master with 4 different tones. When I am not pursuing these goals, I like to run, travel, bike, watch movies, read books, play video games, twitter, and generally have fun with friends.
I have done extensive traveling and have visited the following major cities:
- Agra (India)
- Atlanta
- Auckland
- Brussels
- Chicago
- Jaipur (India)
- Kota (India)
- London
- Los Angeles
- Milwaukee
- Moscow
- Munich
- Mumbai
- New Dehli
- New York City
- Orlando
- Paris
- Phoenix
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- Seattle
- Seoul
- Udaipur (India)
- Washington DC
- Wellington (New Zealand)
I prefer to list cities that I have visited because the countries where these cities are located are pretty big and I haven’t seen the entire country.
My blog is dedicated to traveling, learning, fitness, connecting with new and old friends, digital photography, and my ramblings on life.


Good luck making your career break dreams come true! Many people on our site have done just that – taken a break to travel for 6-12 months. Hopefully you’ll find their stories and experiences inspiring! And let us know if you have any tips from your planning stages!