The Inaugural Post

I've been urged to blog.

Seems like a good idea in theory but, there's always the time factor. However, being the adventuress that I am, I'll "give it a go" as the Brits would say.

General Background:
Several years ago, at about ages 42-43, I experienced a typical 'What's it all about, Alfie?' period. Had spent 10 years in the book publishing business and felt I had played my hand. Didn't know what I wanted, noticed the wadload of frequent flyer points I had been squirreling away for years and decided to take a trip around-the-world. Yup.

Feb '04 was the month of departure for a 3 month journey, circling the globe. Four continents, 9 countries and 27 cities/regions. Wow, it just dawned on me that in another month it will be 3 years since I began that odyssey.

The experience lives inside me. It has affected my outlook, lifestyle and motivations to a significant degree. But, I'll save some of those reflections for other posts.

The Biz:
Several months after returning and researching a few ideas, it dawned on me that travelers were lacking something. A targeted source for travel-themed products for their memories. Things like: travel journals and themed photo albums, picture frames, scrapbooks and interesting embellishments. The idea was born. (That was the easy part!)

In April 2005, HelloTraveler.com was launched. It's been quite a ride and an amazing education. I'll tell stories soon. Have a look; all comments welcome. http://hellotraveler.com