Three years ago, I made the decision to sell everything and leave behind the small river town I’d always called home. I wanted to experience the country beyond the familiar, to immerse myself in the energy of new places and meet different people. My journey has been a constant dance between fear and courage, but as humans, we are explorers and pioneers—discovering our true strength when faced with the unknown.

The past three years have been full of challenges, but they’ve also brought incredible experiences. I sailed the Ashley River in South Carolina, explored the mysterious Magnolia Plantation, and wandered through its romantic gardens to visit the Drayton Tomb. I wandered beneath hanging moss and soaked in the pirate lore of Savannah. I strolled past the grand antebellum mansions in Madison and hiked the Appalachian Trail through the remote backwoods of Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the way, I discovered hidden waterfalls and abandoned ghost towns nestled beneath towering pines. I stood beneath ancient oak trees over four centuries old, camped in the swamps of Alabama, drove along the Gulf Coast, and wandered the haunting streets of New Orleans’ French Quarter. These three years have given me countless unforgettable memories—and a few valuable lessons too.

I’m fascinated by the outlaw legends of the Southwest and the countless stories of hidden gold. Standing in the OK Corral, where Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday faced off in one of history’s most famous shootouts, was a powerful moment. I’ve also soaked in breathtaking views from the highest bluffs scattered across Southern California and marveled at the rich history of classic film and entertainment that defines the region.

I still have many places left to explore in the near future, but the Southeast—especially the South Carolina coast—has firmly earned a spot at the top of my list of favorite destinations (even if those alligators are a bit intimidating). It’s going to take something truly special to surpass South Carolina.

I’ve put together a video showcasing some of the incredible places I’ve explored over the past three years. If you want to learn more about any of these locations or see additional photos, feel free to visit the individual blog posts.

Goonies never say die.

Stay tuned for upcoming adventures…

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