A reflective essay on travel, identity, and the quiet moments we label as “failure.” From my first trip to Thailand and the early days of blogging to questioning what it truly means to be a wanderer, this story explores how the journeys that don’t go as planned often become the ones that shape us most. A reminder that travel isn’t always about distance or dream itineraries — sometimes it’s about finding your way back to yourself along the map.

After months of constant travel and questioning my connection to the road, an unexpected detour led me back to the quiet streets of Boulder City, Nevada — and to myself. This reflective essay explores burnout, presence, and the healing power of wandering without a plan, reminding us that travel doesn’t need to be far or grand to offer clarity. Sometimes the road is not about where we’re going, but what we rediscover along the way.

This reflective journey through Little Rock’s Civil Rights landmarks centers on the profound legacy of the Little Rock Nine and the lasting impact of visiting Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site. Inspired by teaching Warriors Don’t Cry, this Wonder essay explores how history, storytelling, and travel intertwine — from standing in quiet reverence outside Central High to learning at the nearby museum and visiting the Little Rock Nine Monument at the Arkansas State Capitol. A deeply personal reminder of how wandering can awaken learning, compassion, and perspective.