Influences?  Observers of the human condition. Poets of the geography of place. Writers who go to new places, with or without a passport. Travelers with a sense of humor and a sharp pencil. Author Miriam Beard wrote, "Certainly, travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living." And that’s what attracts me to travel — that change. If all you’re going to see is what you read about in the guidebooks, save your money. I advocate going with an open mind and an open heart and that you throw away the itinerary once in a while. And then write it all down.

Author of Up at the Villa: Travel with my Husband, named one of 2009's "Top Ten Books I'd Give My Girlfriends" by journeywoman.com. Also a Finalist in the 2009 Best Books award from USA Book News.