As I’m approaching the end of a recent and, frankly, totally disorganized trip, a dear friend of mine sent me an unrelated text:

“Goodness still exists in this crazy world.”

I love this statement, especially coming from someone who has faced nearly a decade of challenges and still manages to be a source of joy, strength, and hope for those around her.

So I thought I’d jot down some travel notes, using goodness as a framework.

Join me as I look for goodness in our amazing country, especially in places that are deeply connected to me…

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Over the past two weeks, I have traveled through historic cities, small towns, and coastal communities by car, train, subway, and foot. What stayed with me most was the people. Again and again, I found quiet reminders that goodness exists.

Philadelphia
America’s beginnings are woven into this city, but so is its living heritage. At the Plough and Stars Irish pub, so close to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, musicians carried on traditions passed through generations, while visitors gathered around the Rocky statue, celebrating perseverance and possibility.

Rock Hall, Maryland

Hanging out with special friends, listening to local music, sailing on the Chesapeake, and admiring ospreys nesting left me with peace and joy. At Eastern Neck Nature Preserve, quiet beauty overwhelmed me. The stronger impression of this gentle place was a community where neighbors know one another and seniors remain valued.

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City stirred fond memories of childhood trips and simpler times. In a world that seems to change at breakneck speed, there’s something comforting about a place that has managed to hold onto much of its character while remaining clean, welcoming, and family-friendly.

Jamestown

Along the James River, the ruins of America’s first English settlement invite reflection on the courage, hardship, and determination of those who arrived here more than four centuries ago. Learning that my roots trace back to this original settlement was awe-inspiring, especially since I grew up knowing very little about my family’s history.

Williamsburg

This is a charming town where beautiful colonial architecture and dedicated preservation keep history alive and relevant.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is a vibrant community where contemporary life unfolds among remarkably preserved colonial streets and buildings.

Washington, D.C.

Cleaner and greener than ten years ago, our capital city left me proud to be an American. Beyond the negative headlines, I found families enjoying museums, people going about their daily lives, and a city that felt welcoming , safe, and well cared for.

Sharon, Connecticut

In Sharon, I spent time with an aunt I only came to know later in life. At 81, she divides her time between her fancy Manhattan “apartment” and her 60-acre property in Connecticut’s rolling hills. Despite a lifetime of success, she remains endlessly curious, finding joy in people, and also the cows, sheep, birds, and ever-changing skies. I left hoping I’ll greet my eighties with the same appreciation for the simple things.

By Rail

From Amtrak to subways—Penn Station, Grand Central, to Union Station—I was reminded how much we accomplish together. Millions of strangers moving efficiently through shared spaces is its own kind of quiet miracle. And, don’t forget the amazing architecture!

Yes, Goodness Exists

Travel has a way of improving perspective. While news most often floods us with conflict and division, I encountered people preserving history, sharing music, protecting natural places, welcoming visitors, and strengthening their communities.

Goodness rarely makes headlines. It lives in ordinary moments and everyday actions.

This journey was a reminder that despite our differences and challenges, goodness exists—and it’s far more common than we sometimes think. Be well, my friends! ❤️

#travel #maryland #oceancity #rockhall #easternshore #philly #washingtondc #jamestown #williamsburg #sharon #amtrak #lovelife #goodnessexists