When I was 18 years old, I met Deborah. She was a kindred spirit who would eventually become my college roommate, a partner in innocent "crime," a patient heart --- a special friend. But little did she know that when I first met her, the one thing I noticed most of all was her gorgeous pink suitcase. It was a big, vivid, luscious watermelon pink trunk in which to pack up the world, or at least an Italian bathing suit... or Paris-inspired evening gown ... or -- more likely-- faded jeans to wear on some imagined trek to the ends of the world.

Debbie and I dreamed of places we'd see, and people we'd meet in that infinite space called "sometime." Some of those dreams came to fruition, others are still waiting to be realized. But one thing is true: I do have my own pink suitcase... and as I travel or experience the world in some way that seems unique, I offer a companion ticket to anyone who ventures into this space. Together we'll explore the Pacific islands, some languid Caribbean corner or the exquisite elegance of Europe -- if we're lucky; the neighborhoods of Philadelphia or New York -- if our budget falls short; or merely the longings of my heart -- which will lead us to places as yet still undisclosed.

To the world-at-large I admit, this is my virgin blog. So be kind...