Los Angeles, CA
I’ve lived in Los Angeles since 1998. 21 years ago I moved from San Diego to Los Angeles so I could finish school, get my BA at CSUN and defer repayment on my student loans.
On Wednesday, May 15, I caught the 10pm Amtrak from LA to San Antonio. I thought a 2-day train ride would be a great way to get my thoughts together before leaving the US for my first international stop, Mexico City. I also really love the train and the fact that it’s a great place for drawing is an added bonus.
When I arrived at LA Union Station I was feeling nervous. Maybe because I was leaving behind most everything I’ve known for over 21 years, maybe it was fear of all the unknown ahead, maybe it was both or maybe it was something else all together. Instead of trying to figure out why I was nervous, I decided to use that energy for good.
I met a fellow blogger and train enthusiast name Rick, who was on a 23 day Amtrak adventure through the US. Rick snapped this pic of me and my sketchbook.
San Antonio, TX
I arrived in San Antonio at 5am, Friday, May 17. I had two suitcases and a backpack with me. Later, 2 boxes arrived at my Mom’s via UPS. That’s it, that’s everything I own.
Since Friday, I’ve been getting use to the heat and humidity of Texas, which I hope will serve as adequate preparation for life in Mexico City.
As of today, the plan is to stay in Texas for approximately one month, buy and test clothes and shoes for comfort and consolidate my two suitcases into one, 45L rolling backpack.
If there is anything you want to know or any questions I can answer, drop me a note in the comments below.
Katy Rebecca Abramson says:
GO SCHALONDA!!!
Jason Cook says:
I’m excited to keep up with your journeys. Excited for you.
Jorge says:
So cool, enjoy reading and traveling with you through your blog. miss u and that beautiful smile. keep it up and safe travels
Schalonda says:
Thanks Jorge,
Hopefully I’ll visit as many places as you 🙂