Category Archives: Travel

the end of the leopard lounge

Posted on September 9, 2023 by Tom Childers

This is kind of a eulogy. One of my favorite parts of Burning Man has always been a little camp-within-our-camp, created by a manic bunch of guys from southern California. VW Bus Camp doesn’t have much shared infrastructure, but many … Continue reading →

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ttitd vi

Posted on September 7, 2023 by Tom Childers

Welcome home. That’s what the greeters say when you finally get to the gate, and it feels true. For the sixth time, I was back to That Thing In The Desert. Again our trusty Westy, Mojave, has carried us without … Continue reading →

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ttitd v

Posted on September 25, 2022 by Tom Childers

After a three-year hiatus, Burning Man happened again this year. I eagerly prepared early, not knowing if I would get a ticket, or what I would experience. I have learned that clear resolve and intention makes things happen, so I’ve … Continue reading →

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defecting from bimmer world

Posted on July 5, 2022 by Tom Childers

I’ve been an unabashed fan of BMWs for more than 40 years, however the last two years of owning an E70 X5 have cured me of much enthusiasm. While the black SUV has been supremely comfortable, it has proven to … Continue reading →

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mojave adventure

Posted on May 11, 2021 by Tom Childers

It seems that our longer trips with our Westy camper are fated to become Adventures, and we’ve had a rather entertaining two weeks on the latest. Jen was traveling to Santa Fe, NM for a retreat, when Mz. Parker’s engine … Continue reading →

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walkabout west, part 4

Posted on October 8, 2020 by Tom Childers

Ah, Mormon country. I’ve been at at my stepsister’s home in Idaho Falls, Idaho, for a couple of days catching up and visiting her and her family. This is the northernmost point of my journey. Camille and Michael are a … Continue reading →

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walkabout west, part 3

Posted on October 2, 2020 by Tom Childers

Santa Fe is the easternmost spot on my journey, and from here, I’m heading north and west. Shannon wanted to visit her family ancestral lands near Shiprock, NM, and I was only too happy to tag along. So we packed … Continue reading →

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walkabout west, part 2

Posted on September 22, 2020 by Tom Childers

Day two is chilly, and I am hiding in my snug sleeping bag as dawn breaks. Finally my desire for coffee and a hot soak gets the better of me, and I emerge into the frosty air and fire up … Continue reading →

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walkabout west, part 1

Posted on September 20, 2020 by Tom Childers

Sheltering in place for 6 months has been good, but it’s time for an exploration. I’m learning that this is a good and necessary part of my soul, both the comfort and security of my home with Jen, and traveling … Continue reading →

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ttitd iv

Posted on September 19, 2019 by Tom Childers

This was my fourth year at Burning Man, my first solo trip, and my first art build. Last year at this time, Jen an I were wiped out after nine days on the playa, and the noise and chaos at … Continue reading →

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