Journaling Through the USA Archives

Words On A Screen: What words can build, and silence can break

I didn’t expect a kind message from an Airbnb guest to turn into weeks of emails, inside jokes, and late-night texts that made me feel more alive than I have in years. We never really met, but the words felt real and made me feel seen, understood, and hopeful again—until they didn’t. When the messages stopped, the silence said everything. This is a story about connection, heartbreak, and finding strength in a world that often mistakes ghosting for closure. If you’ve ever fallen for potential—or been left with only “words on a screen”—this one’s for you.

Health Insurance After Leaving a Corporate Job: My Denial Story and Practical Options I Tried

Quitting my job meant facing the maze of COBRA, ACA, and health shares. What shocked me most? Being denied health insurance after quitting a job—because of counseling sessions years earlier.

Kidnapped Twice Before 16: José’s Story from Venezuela to Missouri

Before leaving for another international trip, I had a chance conversation that reminded me why I love connecting with people—even when I’m not on the road. Jose, the 21-year-old manager of a local cleaning company, came by to help me prepare my house for Airbnb guests. I expected a short business visit. Instead, we ended up talking for nearly two hours—and his story floored me. Jose’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and hope.

My Journey to Owning and Managing an Airbnb in Missouri

When I set out to travel the world, I never expected to become an Airbnb host. From buying a house sight unseen to navigating unexpected repairs and a global pandemic, my journey into short-term rentals has been full of challenges and surprises. Despite the ups and downs, hosting has given me some financial freedom and unforgettable experiences. Read on to learn how I turned a simple investment into a thriving rental business!

16 Months of Travel: A Reflective Layover in Hawaii Before Returning to Los Angeles

After 16 months of travel across the world, I returned to the U.S. with a daytime layover in Hawaii before heading back to Los Angeles. From the heat and humidity of Waikiki to the solemn experience at Pearl Harbor, this post chronicles my whirlwind final day abroad, with reflections on travel, home, and everything in between.

Burnout and Update

It’s been a long time since I’ve posted a travel story on my blog. Here’s an update to why it’s been so long and where me and the blog are headed next. I wrote this from Geneva, Switzerland, so there’s more stories to come!

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Words On A Screen: What words can build, and silence can break

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Health Insurance After Leaving a Corporate Job: My Denial Story and Practical Options I Tried

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Kidnapped Twice Before 16: José’s Story from Venezuela to Missouri

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My Journey to Owning and Managing an Airbnb in Missouri

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16 Months of Travel: A Reflective Layover in Hawaii Before Returning to Los Angeles

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Burnout and Update

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