Lost in America

Maui Moments

2009-02-25T03:22:00.001-08:00

A sample of my Maui images. I am available to work in Hawaii, nationally and internationally.

Upcountry Maui Wedding

2009-02-22T23:17:00.001-08:00

A sample of my wedding photography. If you like what you see, I will be available to work nationwide through the remainder of 2009.

The Pilgrimage: A conversation with Adventure Travel Writer Brandon Wilson

2009-01-21T06:40:00.001-08:00

BRANDON WILSON is an award-winning author of three travel adventure books, a photographer, explorer and adventure-travel writer whose stories have appeared in anthologies, international magazines and newspapers, and across the Internet. He's passionate about inspiring others with the possibility of discovery through long-distance trekking.

Press Play to Hear Podcast

Brandon shares his amazing insight on ancient pilgrimages around the world. He tells of his personal journey towards peace while walking over 2,300 miles. Listen and learn about his travels...one amazing step at a time.

The world of today is at the dawn of an amazing technological, communication and transportation transformation, but Brandon has an enlightened approach to slowing down, clearing the clutter and lightening the load both literally and figuratively.

In this Podcast and in his books, he shares ideas on how to take a step back, from the seemingly mad world, and begin anew on a path towards inner and outer peace.

His books are also available for sale by clicking on the featured Author link. Thanks for listening!

CLICK HERE to view Brandon Wilson's website.

The Pilgrim's Toolkit

2009-01-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Be sure to visit our online store to find all of the tools you will need to begin your own pilgrimage. Whether it is a 1 day or 1 month long journey, you are sure to find the essential items that will guarantee you a safe passage and pleasant journey.

Click to visit the Pilgrim's Toolkit!

Gran Torino Movie Review

2009-01-19T01:29:00.000-08:00

The movie trailer doesn't come close to doing this film justice. Part of the reason is that Clint Eastwood's character (Walter Kowalski) spews just about every racial epithet and stereotype known to humankind, but the trailer is made suitable for all audiences.

Walter is as bitter, cantankerous and crusty a man as you are likely to find. His wife has passed away and his children & grandchildren are clueless. They epitomize the self-centered American with too much flouride in their water.

Eastwood plays the bitter old man as best he can without turning him into a complete monster. Think Archie Bunker on steroids. There was some laughter in the audience with each hate filled and political incorrect rant, albeit a bit uncomfortable.

Despite Eastwood's iconic image on the screen, the supporting cast is largely unknown, so the film has an "independent" feel to it. Be prepared for a couple of lump in the throat moments, because for all of Eastwood's bad ass attitude, you can't help but feel for the guy.

A Korean War vet, he lived and played by the set of rules he was given, but he never got, or accepted that the rules of the game have changed from one generation to the next. His confessed sins are so shocking in their simplicity that it's no wonder he possesses disdain for the excesses and lack of discipline demonstrated by each successive generation.

With the immigration debate raging in America today, it's interesting that the screenwriter and director (Eastwood) chose to center the story around the Hmong community. Ironically, his immigrant neighbors demonstrate the "American" values Walt longs for while his own family turns his stomach. This film is a flagrant study on the absurdities of our stereotypes on just about everything and everyone. It isn't perfect or without its issues, but overall, Gran Torino aims and hits its target pretty darn well.

Lost in America Recommends with * * * * *

Life & Death an Interview w/ Chris Boskoff

2009-01-17T23:21:00.001-08:00

Our own mortality is something that we rarely want to ponder or face. However, death is a fact of life. Most of us would prefer going to sleep at some ripe old age and never wake up after a lifetime of living. Then there are those of us who live with reckless abandonment and enjoy life on the edge.

Chris Boskoff is a young guy who was careening down the path of living without concern...then he had an accident that stopped his heart from beating, put him in a coma and caused him to suffer traumatic brain injury. He had to learn how to walk and talk again. He was extremely fortunate. I feel fortunate that he would share his his amazing story with us at Lost in America!

Click Play to Hear Chris Boskoffs Story

Economic Downturn....

2009-01-10T21:40:00.000-08:00

The economic downturn and slowing economy hit close to home this week. I was laid-off from my job on Saturday. Tuesday, I visited the unemployment office. I was told I would be eligible to receive $230 a week. Hardly enough to be able to live on Maui. I need to make that much per day! Needless to say, it was a major blow and I began to feel regret and doubt about the decisions and choices I have made over the past couple of years. How could I have been so foolish to follow my dream and passion of being a photographer?

An hour later despair had begun to set in. I bought a sandwich and wandered into the local bookstore and sat down in the coffee shop to eat. My head was spinning. I sat there feeling about as low as I can remember. After all I have worked for and been through, I wondered if I could face this financial and personal challenge staring at me.

Then, at my lowest moment and feeling a deep dread, over the sound system I heard…

I see trees of green, red roses too
I see them bloom for me and you
And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

I see skies of blue and clouds of white
The bright blessed day, the dark sacred night
And I think to myself what a wonderful world.

The colors of the rainbow so pretty in the sky
Are also on the faces of people going by
I see friends shaking hands saying how do you do
They’re really saying I love you.

I hear babies crying, I watch them grow
They’ll learn much more than I’ll never know
And I think to myself what a wonderful world
Yes I think to myself what a wonderful world

A sense of relief washed over me. In that moment, in this week, I was left with no doubt that there is a life beyond what we experience in this body on this planet.

The song was my dad’s favorite and the one he insisted be played at his funeral.

CLICK: www.KeithBreitbach.com

2007-06-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

ANNOUNCING MY NEW WEBSITE!

I am happy to announce my new photography and podcast website:

www.KeithBreitbach.com

Nearly a year has passed since I began this blog and journey.

I had no idea what the outcome would be when I bought that
first camera back in Nebraska at the Walmart off the interstate.

But, I have found my inspiration and will continue pursuing
my passion and keep working to take it to higher levels.

Thanks for your support and encouragement.

Mahalo.

Keith

Hawaiian Garden...

2007-05-24T14:30:00.000-07:00

The Colors of the Rainbow...

2007-01-31T01:30:00.000-08:00

I was in the right place at the right time with my camera yesterday evening. I see a lot of rainbows around the island, but the camera isn't always so close at hand.

Postcards from Maui

2007-01-20T19:21:00.000-08:00

The magnificent whales have returned to the Hawaiian waters for the winter.

When taking photos, I try to see the ordinary in an unordinary way. Color, light, form, conventional function and solitude can make for an interesting photo if you take the time to look and see.

These settings abound, regardless of where in the world you find yourself.

Here on Maui we have palm trees, boogie boards and sunsets.

But the sun is always setting somewhere.

Another Beautiful Day in Paradise

2007-01-06T19:21:00.000-08:00

Everyday on Maui is great, especially when I'm able to kickback on the shoreline and watch the sun dip below the horizon. I took these photos on a partly cloudy evening last week from a west side beach park. That fiery orange ball is the sun slowly slipping behind the island of Lanai.

You can click any of the photos on the site and a larger version will display.

Full Moon Fever

2007-01-05T04:58:00.000-08:00

Here it is, the first full moon of 2007.

I was howling as I snapped this one.

Moon Over Maui.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-02T14:07:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year and Welcome back to the Lost in America Blog.
After several months off, I am back and ready to add more photos and offer up more of my wit filled ramblings.

All things considered, 2006 was a great year filled with an equal amount of hard work and lazy days filled with laughter. This blog has reflected mostly the latter. The blog has also served as a point of inspiration to renew my passion for photography. What started out as a whim way back in July when I swung in to that Walmart to buy my first camera, has now become my renewed passion and hopefully rewarding business.

2007 will see the creation of my photography business on Maui. Stay tuned as I will be posting many photos in the coming days.

If you or anyone you know is coming to Maui to get married or vacation, please let me know and I will be happy to shoot the occasion.

My Dubuque friends Terry Stewart, Judy Schmidt and their daughter Rachel were on island over the Christmas holiday. I had the pleasure of showing them around the island and they indulged me with the opportunity to act as their own private paparazzi.

Aloha Rachel, Terry and Judy!

2006-09-01T19:30:00.000-07:00

If I've learnt anything on this road trip across vast parts of America and to the South Pacific, it's that life is certainly more livable when we are able to unplug, unwind and tune-out.

I realized some time ago, and have once again been reminded, that an interesting life is best created by actively seeking out and recognizing authentic people and places. My life, work and travels have opened some interesting doors and I consider myself fortunate to have journeyed down countless paths that have led me to cross more than just time zones.

For me, travel is the best way to understand the meaning of authenticity. I don't believe there is anything authentic about watching television or other people following their dreams. You have to follow your own bliss and seek out your own adventure.

I must be honest, I began this blog on a whim with the hope that a few people would enjoy the chronicles of my journey. The responses and reactions to my postings and photos have been positive and supportive. I thank you for taking an interest and I sincerely hope this effort has perhaps inspired others to take a leap of faith. To go from the known to the unknown. It has been a bona fide journey that has opened me to many wonderful friends, people, places as well as providing countless reminder of all the exciting possibilities available. If you are still reading this, I encourage you to try and do the same.

Life is short.

Maybe you don't have 2 months, but surely you can find 2 weeks, 2 days or even 2 hours to break away from the routine and try something new.

I've also learnt that perhaps I am not "lost in America" - rather - America is lost on me.

I don't mean that in the sense that America is a lost cause. Although I know some certainly do feel that way. Rather, there does not appear to be a unifying thread tying the country together. Perhaps there never was and it's just one of those myths perpetuated by my memory or desire for greater meaning from everyday life. Yeah, I know the country is filled with ubiquity and obnoxious homogeneous clutter. My goal has been to see the ordinary in an un-ordinary way. I've tried to shift my paradigm if you will.

I've not watched much television over the last few months - actually most of this year...I was busy working 15 hour days during the first six months and traveling the last couple. So while flipping through the channels the other day I couldn't help but become repulsed and nauseous at what is passing for news.

It's time to yank the cable from the TV.

Yeah...yeah...yeah, there may have been a brief moment after 9/11 where people were united in their shock, fear and grief, and no, I'm not talking about Janet Jackson's wardrobe malfunction! Kidding aside, those were strange days and our emotional buttons were being pushed hard so we would be led to think we were all having a moment together. But emotions are things you process in your own personal way...nobody can ever feel exactly what you are feeling.

These days the stories and facts have become as twisted and turned around as a gulf coast hurricane. Nobody knows what is really happening from one day to the next or what reality is. Our collective memories are constantly being scrubbed clean.

Now the war in Iraq and our politics is the equivalent of a level 3 hurricane ripping through and tearing us apart. Really, what brings people together anymore? The media? I am convinced that it is a greater threat than Crystal Meth in that it is designed to perpetuate the dulling of our intellects and our ability to process anything of value. Overdosing on it will kill your spirit and our collective soul.

It has already been five years since 9/11 happened and I wonder what could possibly shock us out of our submission?

Even Katrina, only a year later, now seems like a bad B-movie. Honestly, after the few benefit concerts and Kanye West's brief moment of clairvoyant ramblings about George Bush hating black people, what do those of us who weren't directly impacted feel, care or even remember? Those images and resulting outrage turned out to be as temporary as a henna tattoo.

My most poignant moment happened while attending the services of my friend's mom who drowned outside of Biloxi. For me, spending time with his family and friends was the only authentic moment attached to the national disaster. Watching Anderson Cooper or the dupes at Fox News droning on about the drowning just doesn't do it for me anymore.

Yesterday's news story was nothing but countless hours of callous reporters calculating and drawing conclusions about a decade old cold blooded killing of little girl in Colorado and the titillating tales of young girls forced into polymigamist marriages inside a quasi religious cult.

It's time to pull the plug.

Okay...no more ranting!

The summer is winding down and I will be soon journeying back to Iowa for several weeks until returning to Maui for the winter. I am contemplating the continuation of the blog and its evolution. So, consider this a warning or promise...I will do my best to continue posting more photos, stories and thoughts from my wandering mind as I continue on this journey called life.

Just Another Day in Paradise...

2006-09-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

The view from my condo in Honokowai - Maui's west side.

The evening sunset from Kaanapali Beach...just a stones throw from the condo.

Aloha from Maui!

2006-08-27T17:47:00.000-07:00

After my Seattle painting gig was up, I decided to catch a last minute flight to the Valley Isle for a short 10 day stay.

Besides checking in on business and a little beach time...

I fit in a round of golf with Brother Brad, baby Drake and Father-in-Law Alvin.

After losing a half-dozen balls, I decided the day would be a lot more pleasant if I didn't keep score...F O U R !

Wheels up! Mystery Destination Coming Soon.

2006-08-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Leavin home, out on the road
Ive been down before
Ridin along in this big ol jet plane
Ive been thinkin about my home
But my love light seems so far away
And I feel like its all been done
Somebodys tryin to make me stay
You know Ive got to be movin on

Oh, oh big ol jet airliner
Dont carry me too far away
Oh, oh big ol jet airliner
Cause its here that Ive got to stay

Goodbye to all my friends at home
Goodbye to people Ive trusted
Ive got to go out and make my way
I might get rich you know I might get busted
But my heart keeps calling me backwards
As I get on the 707
Ridin high I got tears in my eyes
You know you got to go through hell
Before you get to heaven

The Fremont Market - The Center of the Universe

2006-08-20T16:59:00.000-07:00

Seattle's neighborhoods are famous and regarded for their own unique character, but their weekend and farmer's markets certainly add to their charm and urban vibe.

Sunday morning I awoke and decided to stroll through the Fremont Market - the neighborhood in which I am currently staying and use to call home about a decade ago. The neighborhood has changed a lot over the past 10 years from bohemian artists to urban yuppies, but at least the sites, sounds, colors and funky junk of the market has stayed mostly true to form.

Sculpture in Seattle

2006-08-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the privilege of attending my good friend's gallery opening. John Leglar, a Dubuque native, put his sculpture on display for all to see and buy. John's creates great stone sculpture and he's an impressive guy because he stays true to his calling. it's not easy being an artist, but people like John are a great reminder that it's okay to follow one's bliss. If you would like to learn more about John's artwork - email me and i'll put you in contact.

John's sculptures are inspired by nature, sea life and chemistry.

I told him to borrow the glasses and look a bit more artsy and less earthy.

No Coffee...

2006-08-13T05:10:00.000-07:00

Well, after much contemplation I have decided not to pursue the coffee shop. It had many positive possibilities, but in the end I decided now was not the time to pursue a business such as this. Between the condo on Maui and the house in Iowa - a coffee shop in Seattle may have spread me a bit too thin. So it's back to the drawing board.

Seattle = Coffee

2006-08-08T01:29:00.000-07:00

Seattle has become synonymous with a particular corporate coffee company, but it's also filled with local shops and roasters all over town.

Last night I stumbled upon this ad and needless to say - it caught my attention.

"I have a coffee shop on the burke gillman trail. I just bought it and I am unable to run the shop due to unforeseen circustances. I would like someone to take over the shop for $5,000. That is just enough to cover the supplies. the lease is $415 a month which includes everything w s g & wifi. The shop has tons of potential if someone put the work in. If your interested contact me"

So I went and looked at it this afternoon - it's great! And I have the first option to buy it. So, I am now seriously exploring the possibility of owning my own coffee shop in Seattle. I need/want to look into a few more important details, but right now I am thinking I may do it. Here are a couple of photos of the place. It is small, but located on a heavily travelled bike path and, like the ad says, it does have a lot of potential. I may add some Hawaiian shaved ice to the summer menu.

It's currently called the Trailside Cafe, but I am thinking of naming it "Comet Coffee" after my favorite Washington, D.C. coffee house. I use to joke with my friend Sid that I was going to move to Seattle and open my own Comet someday. I've also thought of calling it - "The Broken Spoke"...or "Eh Brah Cafe"

If you owned a coffee shop on a bike path in Seattle, what would you name it?

Now accepting submission. Stay tuned for updates on this latest business venture.

Lost in Seattle

2006-08-08T00:57:00.000-07:00

Hey there - thanks for stopping by. I'm sorry for not posting as much since my arrival in Seattle. If you've ever experienced a summer in Seattle, you know how perfect the weather can be with blue skies and temperatures much more tolerable than most of the rest of the country. I've been doing my best to enjoy all of it.

I've also decided to pick-up some extra work while I'm in town. So, I've taken a job as a painter. Last week I did an interior and this week I am doing an exterior. I'm not going to be making a career out of it, but I have been enjoying the work. It's certainly a lot different than the political campaign I was engaged in earlier this year. No phone, compute or office - just me and my paint brush.

A bird's eye view of Seattle. I'll be posting more photos soon.

View of the ship canal, Gasworks park and Lake Union from Queen Ann Hill

Seattle...Ya Sure Ya Betcha!

2006-07-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Seattle a few days ago -just in time for the Ballard Seafood Festival.

That's been one of the things I've always loved about Seattle...It's neighborhoods and the festivals that take place all summer long. There is never a shortage of things to do during the summer here.

I spent Saturday afternoon enjoying a salmon burger and a beer in Ballard with my dear sweet friend Misha. We then zipped up to the other side of town for the Capital Hill Block Party - a street concert that rocked until midnight.

It's great to be back here in the Emerald City, and during the coming weeks I will be filling up the blog with all sorts of new and exciting adventures and photos as I rediscover Seattle and other great spots around the Pacific Northwest.

Postcards from the Oregon Coast

2006-07-25T23:10:00.000-07:00

The sea was rough that day...

Another Roadside Attraction

2006-07-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I've always been a huge fan (sucker) for those goofy roadside attractions and curiosities. If you've ever driven through South Dakota you know exactly what I am talking about, because you just had to stop off at the grandaddy of roadside fun - Wall Drug. Their free ice water for the road weary is always a welcomed respite.

I once cajoled my brother and sister to detour a couple hours out of the way so we could make a visit to the Royal Gorge Bridge near Colorado Springs. Okay, they weren't too happy about getting lost and then arriving as the park was closing, but I made up for it by bribing the manager to let us go across the bridge anyway. Anne and Brad complained the whole time - at least until the flash bulbs popped. The two of them lit up like 4 year olds at a birthday party. The highlight of that attraction was standing next to the spot where the television show "That's Incredible" filmed someone setting a world record bunge jump. But, I digress...

Although, fewer and fewer of them exist, America is filled with these silly little roadside attract...err...distractions. However, you usually have to venture off the Interstate and travel the two lane highways and back roads to find them. I say, what the hell, pull over and take a look.

Yesterday, while driving up 101 through northern California and southern Oregon, I found two fine examples:

This cannot be politically correct.

Nor can it be anatomically correct.

Not to be mistaken for Johnny Depp and Pirates of the Caribbean.

At this museum, they have taken "stuffing the aminal" quite literally.

King of the Road...

2006-07-24T02:11:00.000-07:00

Trailer for sale or rent

Rooms to let...fifty cents.

No phone, no pool, no pets

I ain't got no cigarettes

Ah, but..two hours of pushin' broom

Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room

I'm a man of means by no means

King of the road.

Trailer for sale or rent

Rooms to let...fifty cents.
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain't got no cigarettes
Ah, but..two hours of pushin' broom
Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room
I'm a man of means by no means
King of the road.

I know every engineer on every train

All of their children, and all of their names
And every handout in every town
And every lock that ain't locked
When no one's around.

I sing,

Trailers for sale or rent
Rooms to let, fifty cents
No phone, no pool, no pets
I ain't got no cigarettes
Ah, but, two hours of pushin' broom
Buys an eight by twelve four-bit room
I'm a man of means by no means
King of the road.

It's been a great relaxing 5 days in Humboldt County and Arcata, but it's time once again to hit the road. The weather has been near perfect, although the locals have been trying to convince me that it's usually grey and overcast most of the time here. I think it's just their way of keeping Arcata a secret from the rest of the country.

This is one naturally beautiful spot, with friendly people and a town/county with plenty of character and community. The above photos were taken over the weekend at the Arcata Saturday Farmer's Market centered around the town's plaza.

A big thanks again to Jim, Pam, Alexis and Mr. Pickles for treating me like family - I love you guys.

Postcards from Arcata, California - Humboldt County

2006-07-21T22:17:00.000-07:00

I had been hoping to take a photo that best epitomizes life in Arcata. I think I found it all with this car. You may CLICK this car photo and you will get a pretty good idea of what life and politics are like in Humboldt County.

There is nothing quite like a walk through the redwoods to clear your mind.

And if you spend enough time in the forest you may even hear the trees conversing.

Arcata's famed town square.

The home of my friends Jim and Pam. Yep, the same friends who invited me to Lake Tahoe also have a home in Arcata. They insisted I come and stay with them here as I work my way up 101. Again, how could I refuse? They built this little gem surrounded by 10 acres of forest. It's like living in a tree house!

Postcards from California's Highway 101

2006-07-21T00:13:00.000-07:00

Hugging trees in Northern California

I stopped to use John McCaffrey's roadside facilities and ended up staying for an hour or more. After signing John's guest book, he generously offered some refreshments and great conversation under his makeshift mist filled outdoor lounge.

John McCaffrey shares his roadside philosophies and witticisms along with some of Humboldt County's finest produce. When traveling along Highway 101, keep an eye out for John's roadside John.

Hitchhiker Ryan. He shared the story of how he had died in a motorcycle accident a few years ago, but was brought back to life by a friend. He says he now lives without fear...until experiencing my driving anyway.

Some of John McCaffrey's eclectic collection of stuff transformed into roadside art.

Slow Down You're Moving Too Fast...

2006-07-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

You've got to make the moment last.

When I was a kid, on family road trips, it was always the same old story. Six kids jammed into the family station wagon, van or some boat of a car from 1970 something.

The back seat was my straight jacket. My siblings the prison guards and parents the wardens. It always felt as though I was being transported to some State Penitentiary. When we would cross the river and state lines, I knew I was in real trouble. The ride would be long.

Sandwiched between my fellow prisoners, my feet would be burning up and I'd start to squirm. I would dream of the car slowing enough and making a run for it. Maybe my parents knew the plot being hatched in the back seat and that's why they refused to pull over when any of us would proclaim the need to relieve ourselves, or the opportunity to stretch our legs in the yard. With six kids, it seemed the rules of the road required at least four kids yelling for a pit stop. Only then would my Dad, sensing a back seat riot, pull-over.

Inevitably I would be allowed to lose my shackles, or in laymen's terms, my shoes and socks. Everyone in the car always took delight in telling me to calm down, but the only thing to come down was the window and out would go my naked feet.

I understood then why folks referred to their feet as tired dogs. And like the family pet, my feet delighted in the fresh air slipping through my toes at 55 M.P.H. It's the only time I'd smile on one of these trips.

Those were the days of traveling on two lane highways. When you would pass through vibrant little towns rather than bypass them. And you would see things that didn't exist where you lived. Small town cafes, funky gas stations and peculiar roadside attractions. It was well before the days of acronym travel: Kids with A.D.D. driving in SUVs watching DVDs.

Back then we were just hyper, tired & fighting. The landscape and small towns outside the car window was the only movie worth watching and our imagination created stories behind the towns and doors of little houses dotting the rural landscape or occasional city we'd pass through. Every new city was an interesting place in my mind. I think my brothers and I created C.S.I Peoria back in 1978.

I made an oath to myself back then: When I grew-up and had my hands on the wheel, I'd pull over whenever and wherever I wanted. If a place looked interesting, I'd slow down, pull over to take a closer look. And if I had to go to the bathroom, I wasn't going to "hold it!"

In Laytonville, California along highway 101, just across the Humboldt County line you will find John McCaffrey and his funky machine shed. I pulled over to borrow his bathroom and he pointed across the highway and told me to help myself.

What can I say...I made a promise!

Road Rule #1 - Always stop if you see something interesting.

2006-07-20T14:08:00.000-07:00

While on a trip such as this, you never know where you will be from one day to the next. I have always found it to be a great way to travel. When I fell asleep Tuesday night, I was convinced that I would stay in San Francisco for another day. I was finding it pretty relaxing to hang-out in North Beach and at Michelle's apartment. She was encouraging me to stay. We were having a great time together and she has a great space in a great neighborhood.

But something happened during the night. I awoke around 8:AM and decided "today...is a good day to travel."

The day before, I placed an ad on Craigslist offering a ride to north on Highway 101. Gas is now around $3.25 a gallon and I figured it'd be nice to have some help paying for it, along with the company and helping a fellow traveler out. I received a couple of emails, but nothing firm.

I sprung out of bed...okay...I drug myself out of bed and started to pack-up when the phone rang.

It was an 808 (Hawaii) area code and my initial thought was - "what does Brad (brother) want now?"

Turns out it was a woman responding to my ad. We were going back and forth on times and directions when she said it probably wouldn't workout for her.

So, I says to her I says, "but you've got an 808 area code, that's Hawaii. Where are you from?"

and she says to me she says, "I'm from the Big Island, but I use to live in Seattle."

So, can you guess what I says to her next? Yep...you know it!

"Well, since you are from Hawaii, I will swing by and pick you up at noon." I couldn't pass-up another Hawaii connection.

Michelle and I said our tearful goodbyes to one another. We are planning to see one another again on Maui sometime later this fall. I then followed her across the Golden Gate Bridge to Marin where she was going to work and I was going to pick-up my internet travel companion.

Turns out Susan is a St. Paul native who has recently sold her home in Seattle after some 30 years of living there. She spent some time on the Big Island and her current journey is taking her back to Hawaii, but first she is visiting friends around the west coast and is networking for rides through Craigslist.

The newfangled high-tech hitchhiker for a new millennium. Just put your sign out on the information super-highway and wait for a ride.

We tossed her belonging in the back and hit the road. Destination: Arcata, California and Humboldt County.

It was nice to have someone riding shotgun and we got along well as we discovered all that we had in common between Seattle and Hawaii. Our 4 hour trip up highway 101 turned into 8. The road unwound and we crossed path's with a few unique people along the way. And when we saw something interesting, we stopped.

Be sure to blog on as I will be posting Highway 101 photos and stories later.

Thanks Michelle!

2006-07-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

I'm going up the country, babe don't you wanna go

I'm going to some place where I've never been before

I'm going, I'm going where the water tastes like wine

Well I'm going where the water tastes like wine
We can jump in the water, stay drunk all the time

I'm gonna leave this city, got to get away
I'm gonna leave this city, got to get away
All this fussing and fighting, man, you know I sure can't stay
Now baby, pack your leaving trunk, you know we've got to leave today
Just exactly where we're going I cannot say, but We might even leave

the USA 'Cause there's a brand new game that I want to play
No use of you running, or screaming and crying
'Cause you've got a home as long as I've got mine

The Perfect Slice at Golden Boy Pizza

2006-07-17T04:04:00.000-07:00

I'm a big believer in serendipity and I'm also a big believer in good pizza.

I once drove 2000 miles from Iowa City to Port Townsend, Washington for a slice from Waterfront Pizza...hey it's good stuff.

Tonight I was feeling some hunger and hearing some growling from the old Buddha belly. The clock was pushing past 10 p.m. and most of the restaurants in North Beach were pulling the plugs on the neon signs. I pushed on thinking I'd find something worthwhile - this is San Francisco after all.

Standing on the corner of Green St., I spotted a colorful, yet non-descript sign simply stating: Pizza Slice. I thought to myself - "that's exactly what I need"

From the sidewalk, I scanned and salivated at the deep, square pans lining the window. My search was over. I stepped inside, bellied up to the bar and rubbed elbows with everyone else in the know about this place. I ordered a square and washed it down with a beer. Mmmmm, that was so good...I ordered another.

Have you ever been in a restaurant so perfectly cluttered that you know nobody planned for it to turn out that way? I'm not talking anything like that crap they put on the walls at Applebee's. Golden Boy's walls are plastered with photos, stickers, and random paraphernalia and memorabilia from long forgotten everyday San Francisco life. Combine this with an inspiring soundtrack filling the narrow space along witha damn good slice of pizza and you've got magic happening here.

I learned from the lady sitting next to me that the place has been around for awhile now and that I would probably find it listed in guide books should I go looking.

To paraphrase: "Guide book? I don't need no stinking guide book." Who needs a guide book when I've got serendipity leading me?

The Art of Winston Smith

2006-07-16T16:31:00.000-07:00

I had the good fortune to meet montage artist Winston Smith and his wife Chick last night. They are Michelle's neighbors and we chatted for a bit on the sun porch. He was even kind enough to give me a signed poster he created for the next Greg Palast book.

You may recognize some of his work as he's done several album for The Dead Kennedys & Green Day, book and magazine covers along with his own pieces.

Winston, thanks again for the poster and hopefully we'll be able to grab a beer before I hit the road in a couple days.

With a view like this...

2006-07-15T19:03:00.000-07:00

I may never leave! Here is a glimpse of the view from Michelle's sun porch. You can literally spend hours here just watching the boats, ships and fog roll in and out. That's Alcatraz Island in the distance.

Michelle says the name of this church is Saint Peter Paul & Mary, but I think she's confusing it with something else.

Then one foggy Saturday...

2006-07-15T18:35:00.000-07:00

Michelle and I ventured for a walk across the Golden Gate Bridge. As you can see by these photos - it was enshrouded by that famed San Francisco fog.

Postcards from San Francisco

2006-07-15T03:01:00.000-07:00

Greetings from the city by the bay.

On the Road Again...

2006-07-14T21:49:00.000-07:00

I've arrived at my next destination. Traffic was brutal once I entered the city, but now that I've found a parking spot I am happy to be in San Francisco.

My friend Michelle, another Maui connection, invited me to stay at her S.F. apartment for a few days.

Michelle worked with brother Brad at Gerard's restaurant. She made her generous offer upon receiving my blog announcement. Once again the generosity of friends and the aloha spirit of Maui continues to play a prominent role in this journey.

Michelle's place is in the North Beach neighborhood and it offers some dramatic views of the city. I'll be taking plenty of pictures over the next couple of days.

Morning Coffee & Bagels at Syd's

2006-07-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise when I ventured to Tahoe City this morning to find a cup of java and a bagel only to stumble upon a place named Syd's Bagelry & Espresso.

Some of you know who Sid is, but for those who don't - my old buddy Sid ran the best deli, liqueur store and social parlor in Washington D.C.

He and his wife Bernice use to serve up the best bagels within a 200 mile radius of the District. I became a Comet regular back in 2001, when I moved into my Adams Morgan apartment just across the street. I spent many a mornings at Sid's table and he became a dear friend. Sadly, Sid passed away in the spring of 2005.

I know the name is spelled slightly different, but it was a nice to have a cuppa joe, bagel and a reminder of my old friend out here on the road.

Thanks for the emails and a New Mystery Destination

2006-07-13T01:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who took the time to drop me an email. Your correspondence is much appreciated. I received many responses, so I may not be able to write back in a timely manner. I hope you'll understand.

One of the emails I received included also an invite, so I have now made that individual's location my next destination. Like the invitation to Tahoe, this latest one also is too good to pass up. I am loading the van up tomorrow and hitting the road once again. You will have to log-in and see where I land next.

Vrrrrrroooooom!

postcards from Tahoe

2006-07-13T01:19:00.000-07:00

My farewell dinner. It's been a great few days in Tahoe. Mostly low-key time spent helping Jim remodel a condo and just hanging out with no agenda. It's been nice. My last night in Tahoe was spent having dinner at a restaurant overlooking the lake.

This is Mr. Pickles. I was a little leery when I first met him, but he has turned out to be a great dog and a lot of fun on the trip. Jim and Pam are taking care of him -I guess you could say Pickles is their grandog.

Made it to Lake Tahoe

2006-07-12T15:57:00.000-07:00

Keith & Pam resting after a fun-filled afternoon of sailing on Lake Tahoe.

That's Jim & Pam - AKA Captain & Tenile

After spending two days on the road and sleeping in the back of the van at rest stops, it was a great feeling to finally arrive in Lake Tahoe on Saturday afternoon.

It's pretty remarkable to travel across 1,700 miles of the American landscape and marvel at the vast nothingness only to find, just beyond Reno, one of the world's most wonderful oasis.

I found my friends Jim and Pam and I have been enjoying their company since my arrival.

Our friendship is one of those rare crossing of paths that now goes back 3 years ago to Maui. We shared the same yard while we were renting cabanas on Front Street in Lahaina. We then ended up purchasing condos near one another in Honokowai. They've become great friends of mine, my brother Brad and his wife Kim.

They were gracious enough to invite me to spend time with them at their home in Lake Tahoe and to do some sailing on their boat. What a treat!

More Images From the Road

2006-07-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

Me losing my mind somewhere in Wyoming. I never want to drive I-80 again!

Nebraska, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada and California

2006-07-10T15:22:00.000-07:00

Photo: Early Morning outside of Salt Lake City. I slept at a rest stop and hit the road - this was shot at 75mph out the passenger window.

Driving across these plains states only leads me to ask one question - what the hell do people do out here?

There certainly is something about living in the middle of nowhere and I can understand the appeal to a degree. I even found myself thinking as I pushed forward at 75 mph - gee, what a nice trailer...I could live there. But then I would roll the window down, yelp..."Hot Diggity Dog" and get some fresh air in the van...and come to my senses.

I finally broke down and bought a digital camera. I've been wanting to purchase one for years, but of course I want the $2000 camera and of course I will never spend $2k on a camera.

But as I pulled off the interstate in Grand Island, Nebraska last Friday morning I saw a sign...Wal-Mart.

Let me tell you, the Wal-Mart in Grand Island looks just like the Wal-Mart in Dubuque Iowa. Ahhh, I felt like I had never left home. I found the cure for homesickness. Just visit the nearest Wal-Mart in anytown U.S.A.

A nice young gal sold me the display model for about $100 off the original asking price, so you will now experience full color shots from my trip. I will begin with some exciting ones from the road.

First Stop

2006-07-06T18:01:00.000-07:00

Leaving Dubuque, Iowa

2006-07-06T17:43:00.000-07:00

Photo: The view from the Great River Road in Balltown, Iowa. We placed a bench here as a memorial to my dad, Joe Breitbach. He grew-up in the home just down the road next to Iowa's oldest restaurant and bar - Breitbach's.

The next time you find yourself on the Iowa side of the Great River Road, be sure to stop off in Balltown to enjoy the view and fill-up at Breitbach's. Be sure to tell cousin Mike that Keith sent you.

Okay - here is the first blog posting to begin my odd-issy across America. I am leaving the heartland of America and my hometown of Dubuque for a two month's journey to Lake Tahoe and the west coast. I will eventually arrive in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. I have a slight outline of an itinerary, but nothing set in stone.

Be sure to check-in and see how the trip is going.

It's now going on 6pm, Thursday, July 6th, 2006 and when my last audio book finishes downloading, I will hit the road. First stop: Iowa City and then west on Interstate 80.

Forward.