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July 09, 2006
About the Trip
Who and Why:
I am PJ Chmiel, a 28-year old graphic designer, one who likes to have a change of scenery every few years to keep life interesting. For the past 4 years I have worked in Chicago for Scooterworks USA and the Genuine Scooter Company. At other times in my life I've lived in Virginia, Minnesota, Japan and Michigan. I feel it's time for another change but I'm not sure where to move next, so I'm taking my new Stella scooter, named the Ramblin' Man, out on the road for 6 or 7 weeks to explore Parts Unknown (as well as some Known). Camping sometimes, roadside Motels sometimes, friends' couches once in a while, whatever it takes to avoid the dreaded Vagrancy.
Where:
Having limited time and money, I chose to focus on the Eastern and Southern portions of the US since the country is so enormous and this half has a greater density (and is smaller than the West). I will also be seeing a little bit of Canada for the first time, a few hundred miles around Lake Huron down to Toronto and again to see Montreal. I'm trying to see most states between Illinois, Maine, Florida and Louisiana. Probably skipping West Virginia, Ohio, and most of Indiana, but I've spent time in all of those states before. I'll be seeing less than I'd like to of Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Mississippi, Texas and Missouri, but the vast nature of the country and limited timeframe means that I have to compromise somewhat to cover all of this ground on non-Interstate roads. "Choosing my battles," etc. For more info about where I'm going, see "The Itinerary."
When:
Early August through mid-September, if all goes according to plan. It would've been ideal to postpone it a month and enjoy some cooler weather, but this is the way it's working out, so it will probably be quite hot for much of the trip.
Posted by pj at July 9, 2006 08:38 PM
Comments
Pizznad,
your a welcome guest in our shack for your time in Toronto.
WE can get some yummy vegan grubbage and show you the town.....plus I can take the bike into the shop and spruce it up if need be...Earl change ect.
So keep me posted on dated homes...dont forget I can also get you set up with my folks in the Nickel City when you pass through
XOXO G
Posted by: Kim & Glen at July 16, 2006 09:19 PM
PJ! I'm a big fan of your work. In fact, one of your brochures is pinned to the wall near my desk.
When you come through Chattavegas, you need to hook up with the crew at Hill City United. We're doing a rally in August too, checkout hillonwheelsrally.com
Posted by: Josiah at July 27, 2006 01:38 PM
Best of luck and a safe journey!
Posted by: Craig at July 31, 2006 08:11 PM