Foreword

Before I unleash these stories, I have a few people I'd like to thank:

First and foremost, to my father, whose untimely demise made all of this possible.

To my family, who still supports me despite a serious lack of understanding.

To my "other" family, the Thomes, for their unwavering support over the years, and especially to Judy, whose own personal story has served as a great inspiration to me, and Jen, who demonstrated that life can be lived outside of "the box".

To my friends, who I miss dearly, but who have told me to go just a little farther every time I've wanted to call it quits. Thank you for stoking the flame whenever it starts to burn low.

To Mike Morlan, who, while rarely mentioned in these stories, was with me the whole way through, thick as well as thin. Thanks for making it across Eurasia with me.

And finally, to the young of heart, who yearn to break out of the doldrums of the lives that have been pre-determined for them. Life is not meant to be lived in a cubicle; a whole world of adventure lies on the other side of your desk. Come out to play!