In Search of Roots.

So, this is it. I'm about to set out on a new adventure in June that has been long overdue. I'm going to make my way to Leola, AR. Not exactly around the world, but I have a reason. I have heard the stories of my dad's family birthplace, but I have never actually been there. Now, before the ''hillbilly'' and ''backwater redneck'' jokes start to form, show us a little respect. It's warranted. If you didn't know, this is actually one of the most beautiful states in the America and anyone who's been there will attest to that. It is the land of southern hospitality, manners and a hard work ethic. It flies the flag and is proud to be a part of America and I, for one, can't wait to get there! What makes it even more interesting to me is that dad still owns ten acres of land there. There's nothing that ties you to a place like land. I can't wait to see and walk the land that's belongs to my dad. Maybe there's something I need to learn there. Maybe I will find grounding. Maybe I will find...family. Maybe I will find a better connection to...home.

As far as the other half of my family, I have been to the birthplace of my mother who was from Texas and by God she was proud of it! But, I have never been to my dad's. Make no mistake, dad is just as proud of his roots and homeland as she was. But unfortunately, Arkansas doesn't get the good rep that Texas gets and that is truly unfortunate.

So, here I go. Starting on June 2nd, I will be leaving my home in Washington state in search of my roots. I hope to be back at home by July 1st. I will be riding my 2018 Honda Africa Twin, prepped, outfitted and loaded for all possibilities. It has a tent as well as a hammock. A new Firebox stove and a Stryker (think Jetboil). Two inner tubes and a tube repair kit. Water bottles and a kit to purify water if all I have is a puddle to drink. Enough tools to rebuild a dump truck and sufficient electronics to film a remake of Jurassic Park. I have my kithchen kit set up including a small aluminum table and camp chair. Have I packed too much? Probably. According to the obscene amount of motorcycle travel videos I've watched, I'm pretty sure I have. It is a learning curve, though, and if I have to I can ship stuff home...or pitch it. Whichever.

Here's the deal. If you want to follow along with my adventure, you are welcome to. I could use the company in my solitude, actually. I would like to post often, so you'll see how I'm doing and where my thoughts take me. I'm sure there will be the usual ups and downs and the expected pit falls and triumphs. And what's the worst that could happen? That I have a good time? That I discover something cool? That's what I'm banking on, so let"s hope so.

I have a loose idea as to the route I wanna take, but nothing hard and fast yet. I do want to spend some time in Utah because it happens to be my favorite state so far. Colorado too. There are some pretty amazing roads and unbelievable sights to see. I will at least get a glimpse of what's there and maybe I'll let you know how it goes. But, there's a lot to see between Washington and Arkansas. It's about time to finally get out and see it.

Are you in?