For most of us, researching before traveling is a lot of fun. It lets us daydream without even leaving our house. And while it's not absolutely necessary, a little research before you travel (or while you're on the road) might save you a few headaches along the way.

The best thing about the Devil's Nose isn't the wonderful rickety old railroad cars or even the amazing scenery. It's that you get to take in all of that scenery from atop those rickety railroad cars.

I can't imagine my world without Tim, just like I can't imagine the world without Tim. He brings out the best in everyone he meets whether it's through his easygoing manner or his thoughtful ideas or his fabulous storytelling or his gentle nature. I love seeing how much people enjoy just being around him.

Prior to leaving on our round-the-world trip, Tim's dad asked how he thought we might change after our travels. Completely unsure at the time, I can't recall what answer we ended up sharing. But I'm glad he asked the question because it became something Tim and I spoke of often on the road.

I can't imagine not having these notebooks to look back on right now. And it's so funny that we wound up with them, not originally having had any idea why they'd become so precious to us.