After many years teaching, I decided to explore our world on my own - to visit those places I have read about in books and short stories.  There is so much to see in this great land and so many new people to meet.  I want to know their stories, too.  Having spent many years in the Midwest, I know that, although there are differences in attitudes, we are all of one mind on the really important issues.  The many responses to the recent terrible floods in Texas and Louisiana show that we are a good people willing to sacrifice for those less fortunate and for those in trouble.  That is the American Spirit I want to witness and explore.