About the Brothers: Nick G

I remember the first poem I ever wrote. I was in the first grade, and it was about what my week looked like: On Sunday I have swimming. On Monday, I have school. On Tuesday I got new shades. On Wednesday I look cool. On Thursday I had a spelling test -- I got them all but one. On Friday I can stay up late. On Saturday, I have fun. It's not much, but in its echo I've learned a lot about myself. Very pattern and schedule oriented, addicted to lyrical stylings, a bit of a poet, and I always want to end with a fun punchline.

Since then I've continued to write, even getting a few things published. And when I was thirteen I fell in love with all things Japanese, probably due to the kikkake that is the sublime world of Japanese cuisine. I've also gotten some translations of old Japanese poetry published, which I'm very happy about. Now I'm working to get one of my short stories published.

Nick and Ayumi.

I recently heard a phrase that stuck with me: "You're no longer a kid once you know what you want." And a little under two years ago, I met the love of my life. Maybe I didn't know it consciously, but I felt something inside me that did. That feeling kept growing and growing, steadily and swiftly, and that thing smacked me in the face. "Hello! You know what you want. This is it. So go get it. " Instantly, I realized what I wanted in life, and since then I have never stopped working to get there. Ayumi, you inspire me every day.

So when my close friend Aryan invited me to go on this trip, I knew I had to make it happen. I had a fantastic experience with a couple other best friends of mine, a few years ago, as we couch surfed around America. In some ways I feel like this is the next part of the same journey. Because all of us are seeking the same thing: growth in ourselves, and peace. I learn by doing, but I derive equal joy from being the observer. The photographer. The writer.

So that's what I decided to do now.

It's cost me an arm and a leg, but some things are more important than peripheral limbs anyways. This is it.

I'll be the primary photographer for this trip, and probably the lead writer as well. During our travels I hope to get some good writing in, and make progress on my recent project. I also hope to make some unforgettable memories with some of my best friends. Because of that I'll be sure to publish any pieces that come directly from this trip here, probably with a photo to inform it. That said, I hope you enjoy our exploits, as we couch surf around Northern Europe. Peace and love.