Manger

I absolutely love Christmas.  The week building up to Christmas is a wonderful and joyous time - it reflects all over in peoples' hearts at this time.  Peace and love fill the air and show themselves through the multitudes of heart.

Traveling through South America this last year taught me several things.  One of the more fun ones that I've come to recognize was the ability to not impulse buy or spend money for the numerous gifts, memorabilia, trinkets, or art that I wanted to bring home with us.  I had only one main backpack and shared a normal size, everyday backpack with Jen.  That was our butter bag - for the most part.  I would have most likely fought to the death if anyone were to try and take it from us.  BOOM!  Look out boys - this ain't yours!  :) hahaha..... no... who knows though right?!  Come 'ere you little....!  hahaha....

Anyway, we each had one main backpack for all our things for 1 year.  Wow - that was tough at first when packing and deciding on what to bring.  After our arrival we definitely had to have some limits or at least execute very wisely when purchasing anything.  Was a good lesson.  Funny thing was though - given a few months, I thought I had packed way to much and began leaving some clothing behind in places.  I mean I honestly switched between 1 pair of pants, 2 shorts and a few shirts.  Then I had a light Columbia jacket.  No one ever knew if I had worn the same outfit the day before, or two, or past three days... no just jokin', but seriously - I had no idea before traveling how much use you could truly get out of a certain pair of shorts or pants (as long as you didn't spill something on them - which I'm prone to do.  Just ask my wife). I mean - right there's a false assumption we're raised with in this society.  Oop - you wore it today for 4 hours - throw it in the laundry - it's dirty!  Sheeeesh.... yeah right!  Now I really know how it is.  Jenny and I have cut back our cost on detergent and dryer sheets by 40 percent already in the few months we've been back.  Definitely puts some more cushion in other categories of the budget.   HA!  I just made that up - but it sounded great didn't it??! 

So, where was I?  Oh yeah:

Well when Christmas came around I was wondering what in the heck am I going to do with gifts for my bunner?  I gotta get my bunner something and wow are there so many things I want to get her down here.  I had to think and yet again exercise the creative side in me that keeps this beat goin'.  What came to mind for entertaining mi amor since she's one of those intelligent and quick witted individuals was something that wouldn't take up any space, but yet be a fun gift.  I figured I had to make it take some time for the gift reception process to last a tad bit longer.  My little bunner loves puzzles and figuring things out - very good at formulas, solutions, and patience.  Hmmm... sounds like she'd be a good science teacher - oh wait, maybe that's why!  :)

I decided on making her a word scramble that would fit easily inside her bag and cause no extra weight.  I was wondering in the coming days before Christmas what it is that I might put together for the phrase, thought, or sentence of the scramble.  I was also wanting to hit home in myself what the reason of the season and meaning of Christmas was really all about and also share it with her.  After all, I give it all to Him for providing the opportunity to travel with my wife for our first year of marriage as well as the protection and guidance we were shown.  My belief deepened each month as we made it through injury free, healthy, and clear of danger.  I constantly looked to Him through our travels.  In His honor, I wanted to know more about Christmas, the true meaning, and try to grasp it.  I've always known it was Jesus's birthday and what not, but never really thought much more about it.  Then the scramble came to me and with solving it she'd discover the real meaning of Christmas.  Awhile back I had been shown a verse in the bible that puts it into perspective.  Now being the creative dreamer that I am - I definitely decided to read in between the lines and really feel what it may have been like when what the verse talks about happens.  It must have been absolutely terrifying yet wonderful!  I read it and just imagined what I would have done or how I would have responded and what my composure would have been.  I can't wait to find out.  How would you have reacted:

"And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.  But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.  Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you:  You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."  Luke 2: 8-12

Merry Christmas all,

Dbl A - ron

Channel and Harness

Explosions would be happening everywhere.  Fireworks would be thundering all around.  Parties and dancing would be taking place as far as you could see and happiness and excitement would encompass you if you could actually shrink yourself to cell size and leap into my bloodstream and chest.  The impulsive passion that hits me is truly some kind of wonder.  If I could keep this alive continuously and constant I would be some type of super hero, but I'm not, so it leaves and basically pulsates into me at it's own surprising schedule.  Luckily it's quite often as I love the outcome and feeling.  How awesome it would be if I could bottle it up and sell it.  I suppose then it would be considered a drug - sure sounds like one.  Maybe it is - a self induced emotion and reaction.  Actually, I think not.

I'm not working today.  I have to listen to thy self and take the time I need in which South America taught me to realize.  Right now I need a day to re coop from a great Thanksgiving and weekend hunting pheasant in south central Nebraska.  Hunting those roosters with my Pops and two good buddies from Omaha I grew up with is always a great time.  We stayed at these "Sportsmens' Apartments" that are fully furnished in a town that is less than 145 people.  All the apartments are rented out from hunters all across America.  We have fun networking with them and learning what each group is hunting.  The place is full of all sorts of hounds and hunting dogs so a good nights sleep isn't likely, but that's ok as we're hunting and sleep doesn't matter.  These apartments are near Harlan reservoir which claims to have the best water fowl hunting in Nebraska.  I believe the lake is close to 12 miles around and over 13,000 acres.  Good size lake.  Most the hunters are there for the duck and geese.  Some are there for the rabbit.  We were there for the pheasant and quail.

Such beauty out there when you're actually walking the fields and hunting.  It truly gives you a sense of peace that can only be found in the country.  Alone, and far away from any farm house, town, or rat race back home.  What a feeling.  It also sheds light on the dangerous conditions that exist with the elements and ways of the wild.  Interesting to see and observe all the different wildlife you come across.  Sometimes they haven't a clue that you're present.  Also interesting to think of the animals that were observing me - while not having a clue.

Several places I would have loved to just lay down with my shotgun and take a nap.  Disappear into the grass like a little insect.  Especially when exhausted, trudging through the tall, wild, grasses of a meadow surrounded by a stream and several acres of picked-corn to the south and to the north more corn and an old overgrown railroad route from which the actual tracks and rails were removed decades ago.  Ducking into the grass and just letting it's thickness support your weight as you roll to a side could easily become a bed for a few hours.  Vanishing from the sight of anything and keeping you safe from the cold, late November wind.

I also need this day for creativity, rest, and mental preparation for the objectives ahead in terms of finances and income as well as spiritually to be where I want to be in the coming days.  I believe taking this time and putting life first and work second helps replenish the energy and drive I hold to make happen what I need to happen for my family, our happiness, and well-being.  Thank you God for giving me the time in South America to function mentally, physically, emotionally, and most of all Spiritually the way in which is best for me... and that connects me to you, Jenny, life, and work.

It is now noon and I've got a lot accomplished in terms of the personal life and filling the urge for my creative side.  I have an afro rockin' out from wearing a stocking hat the last few days over my long, curly hair, and a good 4 day beard from hunting in which I cannot WAIT to shower in the next few minutes and then shave off (or just clean up a bit with some nice angled shaves).  Gotta keep the beard.  It's super cold outside, gusty, and thick gray skies are lurking above trying to snow.  The streets are glowing from the sheen of freezing water and ice.  Definitely a cold, true winter day we all read about in the story books.  Glad I'm choosing to live this day instead of work. 

How's your story shapin' up?

Until next time, warm and comfortable, from my den.

AA

Riding the Wave

Before we left for this trip I heard all sorts of encouragement and astonishment from people that we were actually going to leave our home, careers, doggies, and everything to just take off and travel the world for a year – not really understanding how we could do such a thing.  I had several questions come at me quite often.  Several people even subtly inquired whether we had an inheritance or wedding gift of some large cash value.  I just smiled with these few inquiries and just felt even more blessed about our decision and direction to push pause on life and travel for 1 year.  Sell one of your cars, get rid of the cell phones, find homes for your dogs, rent your house out, and put your belongings in storage.  It's much easier to pull off than most people give credit - it's just the way we've been raised - our norms and structures of society that cause most people confusion and the absolute feeling that this cannot be done or isn't the right thing to do.  I don't know where my 401K will be due to the fluctuations of the market and what will happen with Social Security in 30 years so I was all about going now when  I'm young and able to do more adventurous things while traveling than to risk waiting until I'm "retired" and hopefully having a strong 401K and hopefully collecting Social Security.  I may fall over dead before that time as well!  If you got the window - go for it!  If you wait to see - you miss the opportunity.

The questions I was worried about or didn’t like hearing seemed to stick in my head more than just the fun ones I enjoyed hearing like where all are you going to go?  What are you taking?  Where will you sleep?  Do you speak Spanish or Portuguese?  I didn’t want to have any doubt in the decision we made and with so many questions coming at me from a variety of people it was relatively easy to start doubting when hearing questions not so fun and that emphasized potential hardships upon our return.  Questions such as:  What about your career?  What are you going to tell employers when you return?  That won’t look good on your resume.  What about the economy and job market? - It will be tough to find a job when you get back with thousands already out of work and looking.  What about this and what about that? 

All in all, I guess the rebellious nature I’ve had since I was young magnified at these moments and actually made it clearer that this is what I wanted.  I guess I'm still a little kid and if you tell me not to do something - that's all the motivation I need to go do it.  The other driving force and motivation was the challenge I would face upon returning in obtaining another good position and career track.  Challenge has always sparked interest in me and fueled my desire – same as many people say about themselves.  I feel it too!  

I will never forget how incredible this experience was for us.  Absolutely the best year of my life and worth every second.  It was wonderful, challenging, exciting, emotional at times, educational, fun, and overall - has created a deeper sense of awareness of what’s important to me and who I am.

I see this in myself weekly now that we've been home and in the way I look at the company I now work for.  I negotiated my salary down by $10,000.  Yes down!  One of the owners of the company just started laughing and said to me, "Let me get this right - you're selling me on why I should pay you $10,000 less per year?  Done!  No problem."  I just smiled at the fact that he said that.  I don't care about money like I used to - don't get me wrong I still want to make money and be comfortable and be able to save some money after the bills are paid, but pay me a little less.  I don't want these extremely high expectations anymore and constant pressures hanging over me that aid in bad moods, lack of sleep, consuming thoughts of work and less time for my family, things I enjoy, and bottom line - life itself. 

I can honestly say the time spent in South America was long enough for me to really understand what's important to me.  I will still make the money I need to make to be where I want to be for my family and our goals, but I am now all about the quality of life in having the time in general to do what we want to do with as minimal stress as possible that is manageable.  Pay me with flexibility and freedom - that's enough motivation for me to reach the desired results and goals for myself and the company.

The crazy thing is that with the worry and nervousness I had before we left of not being able to find a job in this market upon our return (which wasn't much as I knew I'd just cross that bridge when getting there), or having my resume look bad with a year gap, and the thoughts expressed by several lingering in my head that I'm potentially giving up my career all turned out better than I could have imagined.  It  turns out I've ended up in the best situation EVER for work now.  I truly feel everything worked out better than if I never would have left for this adventure with my wonderful wife.  Praise God Almighty!

I now work as a consultant and sales manager for Collective Networks - a Master Agent for telecommunications and managed IT services.  It's great as we truly have a solution for all companies as we have the ability to offer all the different providers and carriers in Colorado as well as several other states and regions.  The best part about it is that the owners were past colleagues and managers of mine, in which I highly respected, at the company I left in order to take this trip.  The integrity, friendship, and expertise created with them around business at this past company established the foundation, trust, assurance, and loyalty I desire and now have to have in a culture and work environment.  I have finally found my ideal workplace.  I have to give it all to the Lord for providing the assurance and confidence in deciding to push pause on life for one year.  He had and has the plan.  It gave me the time I obviously and unknowingly needed to find out my priorities, what's most important, where my strengths and passions are, and most of all - how I want to live.  Thank you God Almighty.

Onward and upward...

AA

Falling into place

The day we decided to take this journey was an exciting day and it’s such a fun story to tell people.  One of the first things we did was terminate our contract and offer on the house (even though it was pulled from short-sale our offer and contract still stood), and Jenny emailed her science department’s coordinator informing him of what she was wanting to do, our plans, and asking was this possible.  Unbelievably, we received even more assurance in this decision as he emailed her back within a few days describing how wonderful of a decision it is to do something of this nature, that he himself had done the same thing a few years back, and that no problem he would approve it.  She would have to run it by the principle for the final ok, but with his approval it shouldn’t be a problem.  The icing on the cake was when he asked if she would be coming back?  It’s in their districts policy that teachers are allowed a 1 years leave of absence (every 6 years) with approval and they’re guaranteed their job back upon their return!  Are you kidding me??? 

We couldn’t believe it.  Now only if corporate America was so kind for my decision as well – yeah right!  I knew from the moment we even started discussing the possibility that I would have to resign and risk not ever climbing the corporate ladder and reaching the status of goals formed in college and my first professional years.  I knew I would have to completely start over and earn my stripes again.  It didn’t bother me at all though, after all, I’ve always been strong willed, opinionated, and one of many surprises.  I was actually very happy to turn in my resignation.  Especially since the director of my department wasn’t my ideal type of leader.  I truly had no reservations about leaving a good position and foregoing the possibility that this may change my future and possible success in the corporate world.  I was ready to just go out and live life for a year, discover what it’s all about, learn more about myself, my wife, and our relationship, what’s most important to me, and the desires of my heart.

Ok, time to eliminate bills, find homes for our four dogs, and make preparations for a year away.  First off we needed a date of departure so Jenny took care of that by looking for some great deals price wise (which set the tone for our entire trip) – thanks to her we came in $1.81 under budget for our trip!  She found us flights to Buenos Aires departing from Orlando on 09/09/09 for just over $700 total – that included both of us!  We happened to end up flying LAN which I highly recommend.  The date was just under 2 months out.  Now we had a timeline to work with in accomplishing all our goals for the departure.  Obviously we had some major priorities to take care of first – homes for our 4 doggies and to find a solid renter for the house. 

My parents quickly agreed to take our little rat while we’d be gone; whoops, did I say little rat??  I meant our little Miniature Pincher, Hunie.  She could definitely pass for a rat though with what she gets into and also the size of her brain… No, she’s ok though, she’s just so cute and adorable when she sleeps and cuddles up with you that it makes you want to squeeze out what little brains she has and all the other times bearable.  My Mom wasn’t the happiest (even though she handled it well and played it off great) about taking on Hunie.  Let’s just say she’s probably more excited for our return to have her carpets steam cleaned than to see us.  Not really, but maybe that will create a little more perspective for you.

Dog one taken care of – now on to doggie number two, Kahlua.  This was a difficult one for Jenny as to start out 3 of the 4 dogs were hers in our relationship.  Yes I agree, she’s a bit of a fanatic about these little furry companions!  We really only had one option for Kahlua unless we were going to have some complete strangers take her for the year. That option was to leave her with someone she actually knew – a person from a past relationship of Jen’s.  He agreed to take her, but wanted to keep her for good.  This was a tough decision although it turned out for the best for everyone.  Kahlua got to be with some familiarity and a good home while at the same time we’ll have slimmed down to 3 doggies upon our return (4 is definitely a lot to handle) while I also believe you have to have some type of permit if you have more than three dogs. 

It was a difficult day the day Kahlua left – especially for Jenny.  I was having a yard sale at my house trying to raise extra travel funds and also clean house of all the things I had that I really didn’t need or which I hadn’t used in several years.  The yard sale also aided in the size of storage unit we would end up renting – definitely didn’t want to pay for storing a bunch of things I don’t even care about or need.  While roaming around the front yard positioning things and enjoying the sales side of it Jenny showed up with Kahlua so Rook (my doggie) and I could say our goodbyes.  It’s pretty strange in wondering what a dog goes through in a transition like that.  We’re just happy she knew who she was going to be living with.  Jenny called me later that day after she had dropped her off – she was crying so much she couldn’t even make words – I just sat there and listened to be there for her.  I’m pretty sure I brought her over flowers later when I had wrapped up the yard sale.

Booker, Jenny’s first doggie was going to road trip with us on our way to Florida (where Jenny grew up and parents live).  We had a few stops planned along the way to see some friends and family before the overseas trip and Charleston, where Jen’s brother lives, was the stop for Booker.  So that left me and finding a home for Rook.  Not the easiest task in the world when he’s a purebred German Shorthaired Pointer hunting dog and grew up for the last 2 ½ years on close to two acres.  He was used to getting all the running, exercise, rabbits, squirrels, and birds he could get his paws on along with having a wonderful area to roam. 

Rook definitely needed to be somewhere he could run – I’ve never in my life seen a dog that loved to run so much!  Fast too!  The only dog that I ever saw run faster than him (at all the dog parks I used to take him to) was a Greyhound.  I was proud of him for sure!  If I couldn’t find a home for him that had some space – it would have been bad for the people that took him in and for Rook as well.  Just too much energy!  He definitely needed somewhere to release it.  After a couple trial runs that fell through and with about 3 weeks until we were leaving Denver I got word of some interest from the Outdoor Life professor at the university my Mom works at.  All I could do was pray that this would work out – it sounded great.  He did a lot of hunting, fishing, camping and actually had a hobby of professionally training hunting dogs for several years in the past and now does it for fun with his own dogs. 

I called to set up a time to meet and introduce Rook to him, his family, and his 2 female Chocolate Labs.  On my way to his home for the first time I couldn’t help but ask God to let this be an awesome fit and a good place for Rook.  I prayed all sorts of things as if Rook was my little kid.  I couldn’t help it though – I love Rook like he’s my little kid although I know as soon as I really have a child (4 months away) the thoughts and love will not even compare.  As we arrived in Evergreen I quickly realized his house overlooks a large meadow and pond with all sorts of training space and room for Rook.  Around back he had built two year round kennels outside with shelter from the Colorado cold and snow as well.  One was for his older lab and the other was for his new lab pup.  He had a third up in Estes Park he was going to bring down if things worked out with Rook. 

It couldn’t have been a better match.  We let the dogs run around and get to know each other as we chatted and got to know a little about each other.  Soon thereafter we were showin’ what training we had givin’ our pups in the obedience and hunting arenas.  I was so impressed with how Rook was performing for him and was just Daddy proud.  After about 30 minutes of playin’ fetch and what not with Rook we switched over to his older lab Zoe.  To be honest – I’m not even sure how you begin to train a dog the commands she knew.  I was amazed to say the least.  I couldn’t believe that dogs could really be that well trained – it had to take forever I thought.

I brought Rook out about 2 or 3 more times and left him for a day or 2 to get him a little more comfortable and used to his new temporary home and master.  I tell you what – the first 6 months away from him was very hard.  I had no idea.  I literally had dreams about Rook several times a week.  I knew he was in awesome hands though by the little communication with Steve I had and hearing his (and his families) feelings for Rook.  I was just hoping Rook would still want to come home with me when I returned to pick him up after a year of being away. 

The funny thing was after having all these thoughts I received a Facebook message from him saying, “Quick note:  You might never get Rook back… Send a bag with $5 mil in $5 bills to an address we will send you later from Canada…  He’s doin’ good.”  It made me happy to know my boy was doin’ well!

Assurance

How our final decision to travel for 1 year actually came about is quite interesting.  I have always held a desire to travel for an extended amount of time or what I really like to say is just take off and fly by the seat of my pants somewhere and leave everything behind to see what’s out there and what the world’s all about.  I had put the seed in Jenny’s head several times, but never really tried to convince her or sell her on the idea cause as I mentioned earlier – it was still a dream and something that I didn’t think I’d truly be able to pull off.  

It was now April, 2009 and we were planning to marry in July.  We both lived in separate houses and wanted to buy a new home after we were married to help start our new life together.  We started looking and believe it or not we only looked at about 7 houses when we realized the neighborhood and house we already knew we wanted was actually the very first house we looked at!  The house was awesome!  It had a wonderful backyard for the 4 dogs that would also be living there – that’s right four – absolutely nuts I know!  There were several large, mature trees in the backyard along with several nice bushes, shrubs, plants, and flowers – most of which would have been most likely ruined with four dogs.  The main thing though was that there were numerous large trees and lots of bigger shrubbery for the dogs to be able to have some fun chasing squirrels and rabbits and also so we could have a relaxing and peaceful yard to retreat to after a long day at work.  It also had 2 areas to reach the backyard from the house – one little deck area and then a nice brick patio area with a trellis where the grill and an outside reading / eating area would be. 

The rest of the house was great as well with 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, 2 fireplaces, a large kitchen and a nice finished basement with a small kitchenette.  I mean the house was fantastic for us and especially that it was only TWO of us!  I mean geez, obviously we needed that amount of space and especially FOUR bathrooms!  Ask me on that opinion now...  We let our realtor know we wanted this house and came to find out it was a short-sale (the stage before foreclosure).  Our realtor informed us these can tend to take awhile and we figured no problem since we had a few months until our wedding anyway.  We made an offer and began the waiting game. 

In this time of waiting I began saying little things to Jenny here and there like, “man, we should just take our money and travel.” I wasn’t totally serious when saying this, but I more or less wanted to see what her reaction was.  If she was to agree to it I would have dropped everything in a heart-beat.  Well after waiting nearly 3 months waiting for this perfect house we saw ourselves raising kids in we got an answer.  Our realtor called us and told us the house has been removed from a short-sale – this happened to be a Friday (June 26, 2009).  The banks found out the sellers had other assets they hadn’t disclosed.  Therefore, knowing they could still get their money owed (from the sellers) the house was taken off the short-sale status. 

Jen and I were pretty bummed to say the least.  So the next day Saturday I mentioned to her as we were driving down the road that we should seriously take our down payment money and travel the world for a year.  I told her, when else are we going to be able to do this?  When we retire and are much older and don’t have the energy or fearlessness to try numerous adventures or visit several areas and regions?  I also sold her on the fact that we don’t have kids yet and that surely when we have kids it would be a long time before we’d be able to make it happen.  Also on how awesome it would be to be able to do this together as lovers, best friends, and partners.  Every valid point that could have possibly been said was just flowing freely out of my mouth as if this was a destiny!  We had saved enough money for the last 2 ½ years that even if we used all our down payment money we would still come back to a good cushion. 

I couldn’t believe all the points I was making and how easily they were coming to my mind.  The main thing I was shocked by (and which must have kept fueling my sales pitch) was that she had no strong rebuttals or objections and the ones she did have were easily overcome.  I think she might have been experiencing a certain amount of fear or confusion in trying to accept the reality of just up and leaving our careers, house, dogs, family, friends, etc for a year.  I can understand as that is one of the toughest obstacles in making a decision like this.  It didn’t at all stop me from busting out laughing with the realization and happiness that I had sold her on the idea!  She must have known exactly what I was thinking because she just looked at me and smiled speechlessly acknowledging the fact that I had several valid points and there really was no reason not to do this.  I was pumped – success for the first time in truly trying to sell her on leaving and traveling for a year.  The door had just been slightly opened. 

The next morning we did our normal Sunday morning routine.  I left my house a little before 9:00am to pick her up, grab some coffee and a bagel, and then head to church – little did we know how impacting this service would turn out to be for us and the next year of our lives.  The entire sermon was about the sabbatical year, pushing pause on life, and filling up on God.  Our pastor was encouraging everyone, if possible, to take every seventh year off of work, use the time to reflect, focus, and deepen our Spiritual journey.  Basically, (and I love the way he put it) just 'push pause on life!'  Right in the middle of this sermon and as he was mentioning everything, the reasoning and taking off a year, Jenny and I simultaneously turned and looked at each other with huge smiles and just laughed... the door was now definitely open! 

I don’t believe we could have ever had any better direction for doing what we were considering doing.  It was absolutely incredible.  I can’t even describe the feeling and emotion we had during and after that service.  How could we possibly not go on this journey now?!  We felt we had just gotten the assurance and "ok" from the Lord Himself.  Ironically, it was our seventh year of work coming up as we had both graduated in 2003.  It was June 28, 2009 and that’s the day we decided “Yes” we will go for it.  We will take a year off, push pause on life to see what it’s all about, and most of all -  fill up on God as much as we know how or at least try and put him first in all we do. 

What a feeling it is when you finally and actually decide that you’re going to do this for sure.  Suddenly, everything around you seems so much lighter as your perception changes and is now something it’s never been.  It's almost as if you were just fitted with some new type of lens or vision.

Gift of a sale

I’ve been in sales my whole professional career and I’ve found I love influencing people on things I believe in whether it’s a story, something to do for fun, a place to go, or a product.  I’ve had quite a bit of success in professional sales and have been told I’m an inspiration to many up and coming professionals.  It all began after high-school when I was 18 years old and started painting houses.  The experience turned into a 5 year business which aided in financing my college education.  I started knocking on doors and had to present myself and my painting company to homeowners in order to win their confidence and convince them to go with me instead of the next guy or company.  I also had to show I knew what I was talking about and not just some punk kid.  I actually got good enough in these spontaneous door to door presentations that I began getting jobs left and right from people who hadn’t even really began considering having their house painted.  I would just walk through neighborhoods and look for houses that definitely needed painting or that I thought were faded, needed touch ups, or were simply (in my opinion) not the greatest colors! 

I’ll never forget the first customer and house I landed.  It was a white house with a black shingled roof.  Again, I’ll never forget this white house or my very first discovery of convincing ability – or you could call it that anyway.  Never in my life had I been so panicked, caught off guard, or thrown into an instant situation that needed explaining before I even had a split second to think.  That’s when I learned about the calm needed in unexpected situations, steady breathing with deep breaths, and the important ability to be able to look as if everything is going perfectly to plan even if (as I like to quote from the movie Dumb and Dumber with Jim Carry), “our pets’ heads are falling off!”

It was my first house to paint all on my own.  I had been working for a guy and his painting business the summer before when I quickly realized the money I was making could be 6 times what it was or more and that I could do this on my own.  So here it was a summer later, presentation all done, bid accepted, and all my new equipment on the driveway.  I was ready to go with the sprayer hooked up and ready to suck up the first 5 gallon bucket of white paint.  I decided to start on the roof with the chimney and work my way down – if any of you have painted before I’m sure you’re thinking what I now think – why in the heck did I choose to start there and with the chimney?? 

So I lay my shields down at the base of the chimney so I don’t spray the black shingles with the white paint.  My heart is pumping with excitement as I’m about to spray for the first time EVER!  I never had actually sprayed before – I always did the prepping, brushing, taping, caulking, back rolling, etc.  Don’t get me wrong – I had seen numerous houses sprayed and knew the motion to take and how to spray certain areas – I figured it couldn’t be that hard.  I mean it looked so easy!  So I do a couple practice swipes and passes on the chimney as if I were spraying already just to get the feel.  I thought to myself – no problem here – just like those few practice swipes.  I looked around one last time to make sure everything was in place (and that no one was around outside watching as I was a bit nervous) and then went for it!  I pulled the trigger and did the motion I had just practiced before and to my astonishment the gun made an unfamiliar sound when the paint came out and in stead of making a nice fanned coat on the area I was aiming for – paint shot out from both sides of the gun about 30 feet in each direction as if it was a large T shaped double barrel squirt gun.  I was shocked and completely horrified!  Before I had a chance to even think about what just happened I hear a car pull into the driveway and look over my shoulder to see the homeowners just got home.  I’m not sure if you’ve ever had any type of work situation where you absolutely panic, but this was the beginning of my first!  The roof was pitched at just enough of an angle on the front that there was absolutely no missing the total of about 60ft of white paint splattered across the black shingles. 

I had no idea of my skill set in customer assurance that was about to surface or even what that meant as this was my first experience in going with the flow portraying the fact that everything is great and surely no mistake had been made in choosing me or my company.

I had no time to think of anything to say other than the truth – which was my first and number one lesson I hold onto in the business world when dealing with customers - to always be honest and straight with people and most of the time they’ll appreciate it which makes everything much smoother when hic-ups happen as there will always be hic-ups with humans and technology.

The owners got out of the vehicle and my mouth just started moving.  I’m not entirely sure what even came out and if everything I said made sense as it was extremely hard hiding the panic that I may have just ruined their roof and might need to replace it.  I do know that I made a small sheepish laugh suggesting not to worry and pointed at the spray gun and said out loud as I realized the mistake myself, “I forgot to put the tip in.”  I then joked something about just wanting to create more work for myself and that I’d have it cleaned up shortly.  Eight hours later and knuckles practically raw to the bone from scrubbing – I finished cleaning the paint off the roof.

So I guess my whole point of telling you a little about my sales experience, how I started, and discovering that I have a passion for influencing positive outcomes and decisions is that I want to stick with sales and keep to what I’m good at.  The product now though that I’ve finally realized I want to sell and that I believe is necessary and vital for everyone is “The Dream.”  I mentioned it earlier in one of my posts, but I want to sell the dream – the one we all joke about and say to each other when asked how everything’s going… “Ah you know, just livin’ the dream!”  I have some past colleagues that would always say to me (Mr. Callaghan especially), “you sell the dream man… you always sell the dream.  People love it.”  Of course he was talking about the products and services we sold, but he had a deeper sense of how I would go about it – I didn’t even realize what I did or really what he was talking about – I just believed in what I was doing so I was confident and enthusiastic.  That’s all it took and that would do the selling for me.  Belief – it’s all you need and when you have belief in something it’s radiant and contagious!

Now his words truly hit home to me.  Since we got back from our journey overseas I’ve been struggling with what I want to do, where I’ll be working, for what company, and if I should do this or do that when all of a sudden it dawned on me one morning at the crack of dawn (HA!).  Literally, I was sitting on the couch writing and staring out at the ocean watching the sunrise from my in-laws beach condo.  The dream – I want to sell the dream!  Everything that goes along with it – the courage and means to truly push pause, take a right when everyone else is still going straight, and do as we wish while having the financial and mental freedom to do so.  I will use all the passion and ability I have for sales to sell the actual dream we all joke about.  My wife and I actually made it happen and chose to do so.  I’ve lived some of it now and will continue to plan for dream years.  I now know it can happen.  My goal and what I hope to do is truly inspire and influence as many of you as possible to actually take the step and make the choice to live the dream.   Push pause on life and see what it’s all about.  The benefits are numerous and it’s an awesome way to start fresh in life upon your return.  Who knows where it may lead.

Break free

The first thing you have to do (or as a couple if there is someone else involved) is flat out make the decision whether you’re going to travel or not.  It’s definitely a little scary and nerve racking thinking about all the preparations in order to take such an extended trip – especially if you’ve been living the normal middle class life of work and routine in the USA.

I managed an account management / customer retention team for a successful telecommunications company while my wife taught high-school science and coached cross-country.  I knew my company wasn’t going to be in favor of me having a year off – after all, I only had two weeks vacation right?!  Yes it was a good position and the money was coming in decently.  I had several moments and thoughts (aided by the responses of astonished people I informed about our consideration of the trip) of indecision, lack of confidence, worry, nervousness, and wonders of what would I do upon my return?  How would it look on my resume with a whole year gap?  Why would I leave such a steady position (after all – I had just been promoted 2 months prior), so I had many thoughts of am I absolutely crazy??  I decided the thoughts of me being crazy were a good thing and decided I wanted to live my life the way it was being led and didn’t want to let the corporate world dictate what I do with it.  The unknown and open doors awaiting drove me... discovery portals were in view.  The feeling and excitement were so incredible I could do nothing, but follow the heart's direction. 

I also knew I’d much rather travel now when I’m young (in my lower 30’s for those of you curious).  When I have little money and can see and do much more with the youth, activeness, and adventure in me than when I’m older and retired with hopefully much more money, but with less desire for the adventure and active side of things.  By that time anyway - I'd most likely be so set in my ways and use to my conditioned response and schedule to society that my mind wouldn't let me break free or allow adventurous thoughts to turn into realities. 

If we had waited until that point I'm not sure we could have made it $1.81 under budget for the first 8 months of our planned route.  I’m also not sure my wife and I would have made it to the summit of Villarica Volcano in Pucon, Chile with crampons and ice-picks,

or hiked to the top of Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer in high humidity and temperatures above 100 degrees in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil,

(I actually sweated through the shirt above and had to change into my spare below)

or reached the summit of Darwin mountain at Parque Nacional La Campana outside of Santiago, Chile,

or Frey in Patagonia - Bariloche, Argentina. 

I also know we wouldn't have slept in some of the places we stayed just to be conscientious of money and I'm pretty certain we wouldn’t have taken many of the extremely long overnight buses to save on a nights stay somewhere while knocking out some distance at the same time.  Most likely – we would have resorted to the quick and easy flights for much more dinero and missed out on all the interesting landscapes and cultural experiences when our bus would stop in remote towns for breakfast, dinner, or just simply breaks to walk and stretch.

I guess my point is that I feel we’ve been so conditioned or shaped into the mold and structure our society routes for us that most people don’t even consider it a possibility to travel until retirement.  If we do we’re throwing our careers away or irresponsible.  It’s frowned upon by employers and the norms of our culture.  I wanted to break free and see what doors may open, who I would meet, how my views may change, what I may learn, show people that I (you) can go a different route, and not get lost in the hustle and bustle of everything and only pay attention to the acquisition of things, advancement, and status of career while stuck in one spot with all your strings and unable to leave for a bit.  It seems so much of the time we get so caught up with who’s this and who’s that – that we soon discover ourselves with much more pressure and stress than needed and older with much less energy leftover for the hobbies and joys of our life when returning home from that long day of the set cruise control in the U.S. life.

Break free,

AA

Off leash

So i moved to my garage and here i sit...

That's where 'footloose' - the name of this blog came from.  I have to be off leash when it comes to life.  I discovered the itch that I've always had and recognize the desire to glide on my own, stumble, and see for myself.  I want to 'keep a beat' while skipping along making it more challenging for that force to reach me with the clasp of dictation and authority on the invisible collar we all wear.  I was totally unaware of it as we've grown up with it.  The art I'm trying to master is just barely dodging it each time to keep me aware and in check at all times of my realities and what's true.   I have discipline, manners, and lessons I've been taught which will aid me in flying through this radar undetected and in the privatized zone.  The goal is to stay from the confines of bureaucratic philosophies and set cultural or economic norms we cement ourselves within. 

Change - I want change in the way I've been shown to live.  It's a good and traditional way, but  I want to live outside the norms of this society and the daily rituals.   I've just reached the point to where I am a wanderer and will not work for large corporate companies anymore - unless the invisible collar shocks me -then I may conform.  I'll have to be running one if I do.  Entrepreneur at heart for sure! 

Somehow 'keepin a beat' will help you to stay off leash, on your toes, and in rhythm for diverse and surprising situations that jump out in which you could otherwise fall victim.  Following the main stream and set parameters life becomes a never ending escalator.  You'll find yourself in routines that are opposite of your dreams.  Gotta keep the bubble floating... ever so hard!

"Footloose" - the movie with 'Rin McCormick,' or Kevin Bacon I should say is by far one of my all time favorite movies!  Another reason for the blog name.  I think I relate to that character (Rin) in many ways.  The heart, passion, rebellion - all of it!  Now if I could just dance like that.  Jerry McGuire too - gotta make it happen, but yet know your priorities and heart's desire too - another good character!  Tommy - well done.

The recession is causing and demanding people change the way they live and alter their norms and routines.  I think this could be a positive way to live and could possibly be the spark for another round of innovation.  The shift in time and the ways of the world are before us.  It's time to take deep breaths - like actually take them (I'm speaking to myself here) and figure out new ways to live and make money.  Maybe we need to look south of our borders - to the Southern America and witness the way they are living.  It's always good to stop and take a look around, view other perspectives, and teachings.  That's what sparks new ideas, inventions, and new routes.  We sure did see a lot of happiness down south.

Practically the entire outlook spread through the media is causing not only fear and panic in our society, but stressing everyone out to the point of which no one can think straight - influencing poor decisions and insecurity.  That's never good for business.  Get Murphy out of here!  We all can still make the money we need to have a good life.  Get the jobs we need - maybe getting the job now days is making the job!  We just need to focus and engage in new approaches and recognize where many of our models, impressions, and beliefs had their influence when growing up.  People magazine for example (I love People magazine by the way) just a good example of growing up viewing something and subconsciously being taught that's the way we need to live and that's the good life.  Our thinking can easily become warped through so many mediums.  Look around your house and at your bills.  Do you really need that?  When's the last time you used it?  How much better would it be and space would you have if you gave it away to people in need or sold it on craigslist for $30.  Why do you want that gym membership so bad?  You go twice a month.  Put that amount in your safe and start running along with push-ups, sit ups, and pull ups too if you want. 

After seeing how happy, genuine, and less stressed people are in South America - it makes me realize how much simpler things seem to be down there and how nuts they are here.  It also showed me so many ways to enjoy exercise while getting and staying in great shape.  We could do so much with so little -throw a soccer ball in the mix.  You guys know Bear Grylls (Man vs Wild) - look how little he has to work with - I wonder how much money he makes?  That's what I'm sayin' - see how he makes a living?  Time to do things differently.  Endless options are before us to make money and change the flow.  Take your eyes off your television for 1 month and see how much better things are and how much more was accomplished.  Did you make more money?  Do something special for your hunny bunny more than the month before?  Holy cow you cooked that many times, had awesome meals, and what?  You saved how much by cooking??  Geez - I need to do that!

So much busy-ness and rushing in our culture our whole system is starting to go haywire!  It's getting fried!  Start paying attention more to your heart - really - try and feel what it is in your heart that makes you less irritable, annoyed, impatient or what thoughts start to soothe when they begin entering your mind. Once your realize that and that your breathing is good in response to those thoughts and emotions in your mind - search that area for a type of job or career that's similar.  One step closer at that point in living the way you want and making money traveling towards your passions.

Onward and upward, 

AA

So i moved to my garage and here i sit...

Discovering the itch

This travel inspiration (in which I’m hoping it turns out to be) is for everyone out there that has a wild hair and an itch to just up and leave for awhile, take off, get out of here, explore, wander, find peace, meaning, whatever it is that you call it. I want you to be able to experience what it’s like to live freely. Not the freedom we’ve known living in the U.S., but a true sense of freedom in which traveling for an extended amount of time can bring you. The way it feels to be away from all the constraints of set structures and routines laid out before us and that we’re so blindly and unknowingly molded into growing up in this society. I do believe our systems are good and have numerous benefits, but I also know there comes a time (or times) that we need a break and desire to follow that burning instinct of wonder within and long for the ultimate freedom.

The freedom and luxury in the sense of no responsibility, stress that is easily manageable, actually waking up when you want each day, doing what you want to do, going where you want to go, the profound feeling of discovering new things about yourself when you thought you already knew it all, how you really are, and if you’re actually a morning person or not. It’s for those that are tired of waking up and doing the same thing day after day, the 9 to 5, seeing or hearing daily from that discouraging boss who loves power and abuses it, or those who just want to break away and see what else is out there and what education, new perceptions, opportunities, lessons, and open doors await them away from the tampered path we all seem to find ourselves. The one we all know – the path in which we’re channeled down without even realizing it as if on auto pilot riding those flat moving walkways we see at airports to a destination unknown other than paying the next bill or getting up early the next morning for that meeting, appointment, class or presentation.

Most of us often find ourselves in similar moments or situations fantasizing about putting it all on hold and acting on the dreams of our imagination. Then, without fail, somehow immediately following these daydreams we briefly wake up and then drift back to the reoccurring thoughts of how high school and even college are becoming a distant memory – where the heck did the time go, am I really this old already, when is Friday going to be here, man do I really have to meet with that person again, how in the world did I get here, and what in the heck is this flat moving thing that I’m standing on and why am I not walking on my own?!

That’s what I’m talking about – it’s because it’s all we’ve known and perceived since we were young and been conformed to starting with the single file lines in grade school before we could leave the classroom. Most of us have never embraced the thought or ability to take a right when everyone else is going straight and actually turn a dream into reality! We’re too busy being shuffled along from one stage to the next not having the time to really think on our own. Before we know it we’re standing somewhere confused or in some sort of shock wondering why didn’t I or what if… It’s amazing how many decisions are already made and will be made for us if we don’t take ownership of them.

It really isn’t as hard as everyone initially thinks when choosing to take off and travel for an extended amount of time. My goal is to motivate you and show you what steps my wife and I started taking to make it happen. Two years ago I was 3 months into my new job with a lot of debt, numerous bills, and a totally different perspective. I dismissed all my dreams and thoughts of doing as I wish and traveling the world as I had been sucked into the tractor beams of the professional world and the daily corporate life of policies and politics. Somehow these two things always (and ever so easily) manage to dictate our life and keep us near the office with some sort of ankle monitor only allowing us to leave or take vacation periodically – and only for short periods of time when we do. Traveling was a fantasy for me! I really didn’t think it was possible to achieve – it was only something the wealthy could do.

In this same time frame I proposed to my beautiful wife, changed the way I spent my paychecks, and downsized the bills that were un-necessary. I couldn’t believe how much of a difference and savings I made from several little changes on items such as a personal Blackberry to a regular phone. Why pay the extra $40 (plus tax) per month when I can wait to get back home or to the office and surf the web better? It all comes down to impatience (in which I’ve found I’m awesome at). Many successful businesses thrive on the impatience of consumers – it’s definitely a great market! Time is everything – if you can make something faster then you’ll definitely have a successful career from a business standpoint. Hearing several money saving tips and techniques from my wife (girlfriend at the time) I just happened to realize small things like that about myself in which I could save money (areas of impatience that costs me money).

It helped me lose quite a bit of stress as well – especially when at that red light sifting through your Blackberry reading an email from a client or someone else and feel you need to respond immediately as if you’re engaged in live conversation with them. Suddenly the light turns green and then over the course of the next several miles you’re stress level goes off the charts as you try to formulate an email response while nearly rear-ending cars at every upcoming intersection (or even on the road as your foot seems to get heavier raising your speed). Then there’s even the opposite extreme of driving 20 miles per hour as you type causing frustration in the drivers behind you and raising their stress level. Another bad one I’ve done a few too many times (once is too many) is running a red light by accident as you concentrate on the email. I’ve found it’s much better to wait in sending a response for all the reasons listed above, as well as for everyone’s overall safety – I’m with ya Oprah, don’t text and drive – and to avoid extra stress (for yourself and others) as you can articulate much better when in front of a computer. Customers can wait a bit for a response (after all they did email you – not call), not everything has to be instantaneous and it’s a good way to save a bit of money while providing some extra safety for yourself and others.

So, until next time as I sit in my den...

AA - Onward bound.

Tractor beam of potential

Here it is the beginning of September 2010 (post 1 year of travel) as I sit in my new den that I've been envisioning for the last several years while simultaneously sparked with SO MUCH emotion on the inside I want to burst.  Little baby Boyd is coming sooner than I can even sit here and try to realize - my wife is 15 weeks pregnant today.  It's the hardest feeling I've ever had to try and describe to people.  The feeling and concept of fatherhood just before you embark on that journey.  Now I understand why so many fathers fumbled through their words as well when in the same spot for the first time.  Incredibly awesome and possibly what we've subconsciously prepared for so many years without even knowing it.

Traveling South America this last year was the best dream besides my wife and family that has ever become real.  It has assured my efforts and confidence in the pursuit of dreams, exploring them, and following your heart's passion.  I thank God Almighty several times daily for His guidance and protection down south and the courage he instills in me throughout.  Gracias Jesus.

Adjusting back to being home and the realities of life - to everything back to normal up to the last painting on the wall will be hung this Saturday, to the realization that I need to come out of retirement...  I joke that I've been living retired life the last year and loving it, but am becoming quite antsy for new challenges now that we're home despite the many projects I line up for myself each day.  It's just not comparable to living abroad and the constant education of new perspectives each day.  It's time to strap on the sword and go for it again.  Need to provide and plan.  Allocate well.  Plan some more and push pause on life with my wife (and soon to come little one), again here in 6 years for another year.  2016... that's one of my goals and hope.

So... as I sit here in my den pondering possibilities:

I am in the middle of an interview process in which they selected 20 candidates.  I believe I was the 1st interview.  The competition must be pretty steep.  I am confident in whatever happens.  I had a plan A that turned into plan B as I found this rare opportunity.  So now if this new plan A falls through I'm thankful for my plan B.  The funny thing is though, I do have a C and D as well if need be.  Thoughts of those though tend to cause the familiar slight panic or quick rush of stress felt (pre 1 year of travel health brought).  For as the plans get marked off the list or don't work out - I just find myself further from where my passions and desire are and have to search new routes.  I will live in pursuit if I must.

I've been tryin' to follow this son of a... - PASSION that is - for so many years.  Man it's TOUGH to stay on that trail.  So many obstacles, discouragements, and pit-falls.  Perseverance will prevail.

Reminds me of how tough it is to follow God daily.  It seems I'm back and forth so much and contradicting myself that it's hard to see through all the imperfections/sins and realize I'm not Jesus, can't be, and am again reassured I don't have to be.  Thank you Jesus for your forgiveness.  Please keep leading me.

... had to get that out...  so much within...

I do believe the more you follow the Holy Spirit the more your passions become reality.  For coming on 3 years as I've begun my journey with God I've seen and become more aware of the connections in Spirit led life.

November 2007, I started reading the bible for the first time in my life.  No really - actually reading the bible.  I had picked it up numerous times growing up while following along at church, or read a verse here and there at home, but I had never actually read it for understanding.  I always said I read it cause I wanted to believe I knew everything and was also maybe scared of what I may find out so would just pretend.  I had also heard several of the stories as many times as you and just wanted to speed up the conversation at the time.  I had no patience.

So now about 3 years ago I started in John with my morning coffee and read 1-3 chapters each time (which is only 3 columns on a page many times).  I just wanted to see first hand what the heck was going on and what this bible stuff is all about.  As I finished the New Testament for the first time I couldn't believe how looking back through the time it took me to read it I was being led into some of the dreams I grew up with and now before me were becoming reality.  Life began to seem more simpler and somewhat easier to go about.  I grew an awareness of a deeper understanding.  It felt wonderful to understand a bit of understanding. 

This blog will be about sharing my experiences traveling and volunteering down south.  How that time has altered my perspective a bit and venting on how I will try to hold onto these unveilings and new discoveries.  Also, within a short period of time, ways that I might slip right back into the cultural norms and systems I've known growing up here in the U.S.

"Whirlwind" is what a few have said to me about the last year and a half of my life - resigning from a good position and company to traveling and living free for 1 year, to returning home and my wife being 15 weeks pregnant.  I currently have no job, no insurance, the economy is what we all know it is, and I'm happy and worry free with opportunities.  He always provides!

I want everyone to be able to experience a year away from the demands of work.  To travel or do as they please for 1 year.  I want to sell that dream!  I've been in sales my whole professional career - it's time to sell the right product that will benefit everyone and that product is "the dream" everyone always jokes about, "just livin' the dream man."  It's time to actually live those words.  Push pause on life before you're 65 and retired.  Take a year when you're young and stronger, healthier, more courageous and adventurous.  It's the best thing my wife or I have ever done.  I will do my best to influence as many of you as possible to do the same thing!

I will show you how it's not that hard - keep readin' this blog as I will be painting the picture of how we made it happen.  Three years ago I had no job and several thousand in debt.  Now I have a year straight of traveling the world under my belt and have come home to financial comfort as I begin my new road of success for the next 6 years - which will hopefully bring my family and I to our next "pause on life" in the 7th year.

So, until next time as I sit here in my den...

AA - onward and upward.