My name is Doug. I’m a writer on a cross-country venture, covering 10,000 miles on a Greyhound Bus over a two-month period (and you thought you had problems!!).

Why a bus, why 10,000 miles…and why now? 

• Greyhound Bus has been part of the American journey for almost 90 years (no, they aren't paying me to say this, but I give them permission to use the line in future marketing efforts).  I think there is something authentic about seeing the country from inside the bus as the person seated next to you snores and spills over into your space while trying to find a comfortable position in which to sleep.   
  

• I'm using this journey as a chance to re-connect with old friends scattered throughout the country. ( I've promised them I would not turn into the "guest who never leaves.").  This scattering of old friends translates to about 10,000 miles of highway travel next to the snoring, contorted seat mate.

• As for the "why now" part, that’s easy:  why NOT now?  I’m 57 and have done most everything by the book throughout my life.  When the inspiration came to take this trip, I did everything I could to convince myself that it was crazy, impractical, a waste of of both money and time.  I heard the voices of doubt: “Do you really want to hang out in bus stations?”  “Do you think anybody really wants to talk to you and, if they did, who’s going to care enough to read about it anyway?”  “Do you really want to go without Netflx this long?”  I’ve often listened to those voices, choosing safety and comfort over the possibility to grow and be challenged.  And I’m sure the voices will badger me every step of the way.  But I feel called to take this journey.  I’ve never had that feeling before, that strong, clear, internal voice that compels you to act against your better judgment.  

I don't know how this journey will unfold so I cant make any promises about this blog. My goal is to share stories and anecdotes that are hopefully interesting, to make your reading time worthwhile. I won’t know until I hit the road.  And I hope you’ll make the trip with me.

Thanks for joining me on this journey.