Not all who wander are lost…
…some are on a quest.
We are a family of five living nomadically, traveling around the globe to gather knowledge that will help us lead the rest of our lives more thoughtfully and with greater perspective.
We are on this quest in order to spend less time shoveling around our stuff and more time learning as a family. We wish to know which of the material possessions that seem to burden us are worth their weight. We want to quit worming our way through well-worn paths of thought. We wish to experience the growth that comes from intentional culture shock. We want to see the world firsthand, rather than through the eyes of the evening news.
We have spent the last fifteen joyful years in Alexandria, Virginia, outside of Washington, DC. Initially, we were two, Chris and Holly, now five, with the addition of our sons Jack, Leo, and Seth. Alexandria was a great home, full of family, friends, past adventures, formative moments, poignant memories, and more history and culture than you can shake a stick at. We have loved our careers as teachers of martial arts and music, and are grateful to all the students who have come our way. All told, it was a great place to live, grow, and raise a family.
And so, logically, we have decided to leave 😁
We embarked on April 22, 2019. First, we drove across the country for four months; then, we cruised the Alaskan coast, then we headed to Asia. A month in Russia, a couple of weeks in Mongolia, into Central Asia… you get the idea.
World, here we come!
Looking forward to following your next adventure we call life! Lindsay
You and me both!
I love this! I just started homeschooling one of mine which has been great, and this is next level awesome. Best wishes to you on your world travels. I bet it will be amazing!
Amber, we are so excited for you! May homeschool bring you and your child endless delightful discoveries.
Shihan and Renshi,
May the wind be at your back as you climb obstacles and may your skies be severe-clear. My family is following yours in mind and spirit.
Samer
Samer, what a beautiful send-off on this glorious spring day! Thank you for your well wishes, and may you also fare well!
What an amazing adventure! I am very much looking forward to traveling along with you, albeit through the internet. Maybe not quite as exciting but that is my comfort level at this stage in my life. Be safe and have tons of fun!
Julie, how great to hear from you! How are those beautiful children and grandchildren of yours?
Everyone is doing well. Thank you for asking. If you get out our way in your travels (although you know as well as I that Upland isn’t very exotic) stop by for a swim or something!
Thank you!
That’s an awesome adventure Chris – I’ll be following your adventures, with hope that one day we’ll be able to do the same! ENJOY!!
Jack
PS…New Zealand IS amazing.
Thank you! We believe in your ability to create the life you most want!
PS New Zealand is definitely on the list!
Enjoy! Sure to be a great experience for all.
Thank you!
Hi Holly, Chris, Jack, Leo and Seth,
Welcome to your new life from “nowhere”- how exciting! Chris, I came across your LinkedIn profile on today as I was browsing some articles which eventually led me to the book you all wrote (will have to check that out) which led me to your blog- which, how cool is this! I find myself nodding in agreement with many of your posts and ideas. More outdoors for everyone! More independence for everyone! More resilience for everyone! YES PLEASE! Chris, I’ve been studying growth mindset over the past couple of years and your post on failure was just brilliant- don’t hide it, learn and grow- I’ll be sharing that one in particular with my kids later.
Ah, and if you’re wondering who this is, go way back to Mount Vernon Weekday School, Mindi the director. We too found ourselves loving Virginia, but longing for something different. We packed up a couple of years ago and moved to New Zealand, so when you make it over here, give us a shout. This is definitely countryside you won’t want to miss and family/camper van friendly. We are settled in Christchurch, but I can tell you moving about the country in a camper is so easy- make sure it is on your list.
Wow! What a wonderful echo from the halls of memory! We enjoyed our time under your direction so much. Can’t wait to hear more about your adventures in your new home. We will definitely come visit–New Zealand had been recommended by many. How wonderful to be able to meet a friendly face there!
Endorse what you are doing 100%. Best wishes
Thank you!
Chris and Holly! Hello again. I went to the Shaolin Temple with you guys. I was the only person from the CA and Matt Mattera is my sensei and friend. I hope that you don’t mind if I travel vicariously through you guys? My wife has MS and our travel days are sadly behind us. I think what you guys are doing is great and I envy the adventures that are open to you and your family. Sensei Michael
Michael, good to hear from you I’m glad you’re doing well. You’re certainly welcome to tag along on our travels. But don’t be surprised if we also wish to live vicariously through those of you who have a permanent home, as that feels more and more warm and welcoming as the seasons pass.
Hi Chris & Holly. it was great to meet you and your boys at Culloden Battlefield recently. We are enjoying your blog. We wish you all safe travels as you continue on your journey. Best wishes Julie & Ian Butter, Blackpool,UK
Julie and Ian, great to meet you, and thank you so much for stopping to chat amidst the battlefield. Best wishes!
Very happy to find your blog. Safe travels, and ENJOY!