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Nature’s Beauty

Sunshine after a thunderstorm in Pescadero, CA

Inspirational People

Caroline Leon

Landmarks & Ruins

The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey

10 Years of Travel Photography

Sri Lanka Train Ride - Ella

Baseball

The American Flag is unfurled in centerfield during the 2013 MLB All Star Game pregame ceremony at Citi Field in Queens, NYC

Cityscapes

The town of Yangshou in Guangxi, China

Transportation

A cloverleaf traffic intersection in Dubai, UAE

What’s Backpacking Like

Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand

South Korea

The changing of the guards at Deoksugung Palace in Seoul, South Korea

Trains of the World

A train goes through a tunnel in the Pingxi Line Railroad - Taiwan

New York City – Fine Art Photography

A view of Manhattan from the Top of the Rock

Roosevelt Island, NYC – Fine Art Photography

The Tram soars above Roosevelt Island, in the middle of the East River in NYC

Peru

The classic Machu Picchu postcard shot.

Chiang Mai, Thailand

Yi Peng sky lantern celebration at the Mae Jo University in Chiang Mai, Thailand

India

Sunrise at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India

Route 66

Route 66 in Essex, CA

San Francisco

San Francisco skyline from Treasure Island

Sri Lanka

Central America

A sunrise over Lago Atitlan in Guatemala, as seen from Casa Del Mundo

South America

Copacabana has the most spectacular sunsets.

Turkey

Sunrise and hot air balloons over Kapadokya, Turkey

Yosemite National Park

Sunrise over Half Dome, as seen from Glacier Point in Yosemite National Park

Myanmar (Burma)

Monk sunrise in Bagan, Burma

Laos

Ecuador

The Quilotoa Volcano in Ecuador

Taiwan

United States of America

The Iwa Jima Memorial is located just outside of Washington, DC in Arlington, Virginia

Bolivia

Santuario de la Virgen del Socavon in Oruro, Bolivia

China

A cormorant fisherman in Yangshou, China

Vietnam

A local building in a rice field in Sapa, Vietnam

Asia

A devotee is surrounded by 12,999 monks in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Washington, DC

The Jefferson Memorial during cherry blossom season in Washington, DC

Philippines

The Bay-Yo Rice Terraces in Bontoc, Mountain Province, Cordilleras, Philippines

Germany

Nicaragua

Thailand

Mae Perm gets a bath from his mahoot at Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Hong Kong

London, England

London's Big Ben clocktower, as seen at night from the busy streets below

Santa Cruz, CA • a photo gallery

A 6-week online learning experience

Let a National Geographic Storyteller show you how to:

Bring loved ones along on your life’s journey.
Share your favorite travel stories.
Improve your photography.
Organize your photo library.
Ignite your creative spark at home.

LEARN MORE & ENROLL NOW

Hi. I’m Greg Goodman

Photographic Storyteller • Entrepreneur • Truthsayer • Dad

@Adventures of a GoodMan, I use my travel archives to help fuel wanderlust – while creating new art that reflects my current life’s journey.

@Goodman Creatives, I help business owners get more clients with ease and flow through a mix of web design, marketing, and coaching.

@Greg Goodman, I dedicate myself to radical honesty on social media, giving voice to the internal struggles we all face — but seldom talk of.

A Journey Awaits

Adventures of a GoodMan is the graphic novel of my life and the next chapter is still being written.

Here are 4 good places to start your journey.

Sri Lanka Train Ride - Ella

PHOTOGRAPHY

Imagery from 14 years of world travel

Sunrise at the Golden Temple in Amritsar, India

STORYTELLING

Travel guides, journals & photo essays

Monk sunrise in Bagan, Burma

GRATITUDE

28-days of thank you’s and honest reflections

10,000 Thai lanterns go off in one giant wish at the Yi Peng festival in Chiang Mai

TUTORIALS

Fuse Photos & Stories to share your life’s journey

Get Travel Photos & Stories

Beautify your inbox. — Sign up to get weekly travel inspiration from our beautiful world ++ tips on how to share your life’s journey with friends and family.

Follow me On Instagram

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 16

The story of how I got this photo is one of my favorites from a decade of backpacking ...⁠
⁠
After spending an afternoon looking for a unique vantage point of the Petronas Towers, I came across a broken fountain in a park below their towering spires.⁠
⁠
Inside that fountain were beautiful metal statues of whales, dolphins, and other ocean animals — any of which would make a great compliment to the skyscrapers above.⁠
⁠
So, as my wife photographed me from a nearby bench, I kicked off my flip flops and waded through knee-high water to get right under this whale.⁠
⁠
Although every single passerby took a long look at the foreigner in the fountain, no one said anything and I was able to get one of the most special photographs of the Petronas Towers that I’ve ever seen!⁠
⁠
WHAT ARE THE PETRONAS TOWERS?⁠
⁠
In addition to being the centerpiece of Entrapment the 1999 movie starring Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta Jones ...⁠
⁠
From 1998 – 2004, the Petronas Towers were the world’s tallest buildings at 1,558 feet each.⁠
⁠
Although several individual buildings have since claimed the record, Malaysia’s Petronas Towers remain the world’s tallest twin buildings.⁠

The story of how I got this photo is one of my favorites from a decade of backpacking ...⁠
⁠
After spending an afternoon looking for a unique vantage point of the Petronas Towers, I came across a broken fountain in a park below their towering spires.⁠
⁠
Inside that fountain were beautiful metal statues of whales, dolphins, and other ocean animals — any of which would make a great compliment to the skyscrapers above.⁠
⁠
So, as my wife photographed me from a nearby bench, I kicked off my flip flops and waded through knee-high water to get right under this whale.⁠
⁠
Although every single passerby took a long look at the foreigner in the fountain, no one said anything and I was able to get one of the most special photographs of the Petronas Towers that I’ve ever seen!⁠
⁠
WHAT ARE THE PETRONAS TOWERS?⁠
⁠
In addition to being the centerpiece of Entrapment the 1999 movie starring Sean Connery and Catherine Zeta Jones ...⁠
⁠
From 1998 – 2004, the Petronas Towers were the world’s tallest buildings at 1,558 feet each.⁠
⁠
Although several individual buildings have since claimed the record, Malaysia’s Petronas Towers remain the world’s tallest twin buildings.⁠ ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 15

I hope you’re having a treemendous day.

I hope you’re having a treemendous day. ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 15

What is this woman looking at?⁠
⁠
** Wrong answers only **

What is this woman looking at?⁠
⁠
** Wrong answers only ** ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 14

This is a Puja alongside the Ganges River in Rishikesh, India.⁠
⁠
A puja is a religious ritual offered to various deities, distinguished persons or special guests. ⁠
⁠
It is meant as a sign of honor, worship and devotional attention. ⁠
⁠
Traditional acts of a puja include bowing, making offerings and chanting. ⁠
⁠
The primary locations for a puja are in the home or at a temple, though it technically can take place anywhere.⁠
⁠
While many pujas are long in length and double as religious ceremonies, the act of offering a puja can be as simple as sending a flower down the Ganges River and saying a prayer. ⁠
⁠
In my three weeks in Rishikesh, I attended and performed pujas of all shapes and sizes, including a sunset puja.⁠
⁠
These common religious ceremonies are performed every evening on ghats (steps leading down to a water source or river: often the Ganges) across India. ⁠
⁠
For roughly an hour, men stand alongside the water on platforms and use a variety of candles, incense, holy water, fire and other objects to pray. ⁠
⁠
The men chant for most of the time while holding these objects in the air and offering them to the gods in a circular motion.⁠
⁠
Have you ever experienced a puja?

This is a Puja alongside the Ganges River in Rishikesh, India.⁠
⁠
A puja is a religious ritual offered to various deities, distinguished persons or special guests. ⁠
⁠
It is meant as a sign of honor, worship and devotional attention. ⁠
⁠
Traditional acts of a puja include bowing, making offerings and chanting. ⁠
⁠
The primary locations for a puja are in the home or at a temple, though it technically can take place anywhere.⁠
⁠
While many pujas are long in length and double as religious ceremonies, the act of offering a puja can be as simple as sending a flower down the Ganges River and saying a prayer. ⁠
⁠
In my three weeks in Rishikesh, I attended and performed pujas of all shapes and sizes, including a sunset puja.⁠
⁠
These common religious ceremonies are performed every evening on ghats (steps leading down to a water source or river: often the Ganges) across India. ⁠
⁠
For roughly an hour, men stand alongside the water on platforms and use a variety of candles, incense, holy water, fire and other objects to pray. ⁠
⁠
The men chant for most of the time while holding these objects in the air and offering them to the gods in a circular motion.⁠
⁠
Have you ever experienced a puja? ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 13

𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗯𝗲 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂.⁠
⁠
Especially when you're looking at life through a camera.⁠
⁠
The mundane becomes magnificent. ⁠
⁠
Small details become a big deal. ⁠
⁠
Local landmarks become fantastic photo opps. ⁠
⁠
A trip into the backyard inspires the same awe and wonder as an adventure abroad. ⁠
⁠
With a simple mindset shift, every day becomes an exploration.⁠
⁠
Thanks to smartphones, we can all feel the travel photography spark ... regardless of how far we are from home. ⁠
⁠
If inspiration lurks around every corner …⁠
⁠
What's inspiring YOU this week?⁠
⁠
Would love to see your favorite photo(s).⁠
⁠
Or …⁠
⁠
Perhaps you’ll join me on a 6-week online learning experience.⁠
⁠
𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬⁠
𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙂𝙚𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤:⁠
⁠
✔️ Improve your photography⁠
⁠
✔️ Write the stories behind your favorite photos.⁠
⁠
✔️ Share your passion on social media, a website, or in a book.⁠
⁠
✔️ Bring friends and family along on your life’s journey … even if you can't be with them physically.⁠
⁠
✔️ Ignite your creative spark at home.⁠
⁠
✔️ Organize your photo archives.⁠
⁠
✔️ Stay connected in a disconnected world.⁠
⁠
Thoughts?⁠
⁠
Intrigued?⁠
⁠
Wanna learn more?⁠
⁠
Drop a YES! 👇 in that place 👇 where you write stuff 👇 and let’s talk.⁠
⁠
A Journey Awaits!

𝗛𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗯𝗲 𝗷𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝘀 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝘀 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝗶𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂.⁠
⁠
Especially when you're looking at life through a camera.⁠
⁠
The mundane becomes magnificent. ⁠
⁠
Small details become a big deal. ⁠
⁠
Local landmarks become fantastic photo opps. ⁠
⁠
A trip into the backyard inspires the same awe and wonder as an adventure abroad. ⁠
⁠
With a simple mindset shift, every day becomes an exploration.⁠
⁠
Thanks to smartphones, we can all feel the travel photography spark ... regardless of how far we are from home. ⁠
⁠
If inspiration lurks around every corner …⁠
⁠
What's inspiring YOU this week?⁠
⁠
Would love to see your favorite photo(s).⁠
⁠
Or …⁠
⁠
Perhaps you’ll join me on a 6-week online learning experience.⁠
⁠
𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬⁠
𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙂𝙚𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤:⁠
⁠
✔️ Improve your photography⁠
⁠
✔️ Write the stories behind your favorite photos.⁠
⁠
✔️ Share your passion on social media, a website, or in a book.⁠
⁠
✔️ Bring friends and family along on your life’s journey … even if you can't be with them physically.⁠
⁠
✔️ Ignite your creative spark at home.⁠
⁠
✔️ Organize your photo archives.⁠
⁠
✔️ Stay connected in a disconnected world.⁠
⁠
Thoughts?⁠
⁠
Intrigued?⁠
⁠
Wanna learn more?⁠
⁠
Drop a YES! 👇 in that place 👇 where you write stuff 👇 and let’s talk.⁠
⁠
A Journey Awaits! ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 12

𝐎𝐌𝐆 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫! 📸✍️⁠
⁠
I’ve been dreaming about creating my Photographic Storytelling course for 15 years.⁠
⁠
Granted, online courses were not really a thing back in 2005.⁠
⁠
We were still on Friendster and AOL.⁠
⁠
But still … the idea was percolating in my head.⁠
⁠
Carrie and I were in the middle of our decade of world travel.⁠
⁠
My blog was full of words and images that shared a comprehensive narrative.⁠
⁠
» Highs.⁠
» Lows.⁠
» YES!⁠
» No⁠
» Nature.⁠
» Cities.⁠
⁠
» Small details.⁠
» Big pictures.⁠
» Transit.⁠
» Travel.⁠
» Love.⁠
» Life.⁠
⁠
A visual journal of a fish out of water who was constantly catapulted out of his comfort zone.⁠
⁠
An insider look at the realities of life as a long-term traveler.⁠
⁠
There was no business goal.⁠
⁠
I followed my heart and trusted that success would follow.⁠
⁠
And it did.⁠
⁠
Now, I’m rekindling that spark.⁠
⁠
I’m about to say YES! to a 15-year-old dream.⁠
⁠
The wait is over …⁠
⁠
The finishing touches are being applied …⁠
⁠
It’s time for …⁠
⁠
⁠
𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬⁠
⁠
𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙂𝙚𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤:⁠
⁠
✔️ Bring friends and family along on your life’s journey … even if they can’t be by your side.⁠
⁠
✔️ Ignite your creative spark at home.⁠
⁠
✔️ Dazzle readers with whimsical wordplay and soulful storytelling⁠
⁠
✔️ Add pop and pizzaz to your photography.⁠
⁠
✔️ Create order in the chaos of your photo library.⁠
⁠
✔️ Breathe new life into old travels.⁠
⁠
✔️ Stay connected in a disconnected world.⁠
⁠
⁠
If you want to learn more about this 6-week online experience, drop a YES! 👇down there.⁠
⁠
Let’s do this together.⁠
⁠
A JOURNEY AWAITS!

𝐎𝐌𝐆 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫! 📸✍️⁠
⁠
I’ve been dreaming about creating my Photographic Storytelling course for 15 years.⁠
⁠
Granted, online courses were not really a thing back in 2005.⁠
⁠
We were still on Friendster and AOL.⁠
⁠
But still … the idea was percolating in my head.⁠
⁠
Carrie and I were in the middle of our decade of world travel.⁠
⁠
My blog was full of words and images that shared a comprehensive narrative.⁠
⁠
» Highs.⁠
» Lows.⁠
» YES!⁠
» No⁠
» Nature.⁠
» Cities.⁠
⁠
» Small details.⁠
» Big pictures.⁠
» Transit.⁠
» Travel.⁠
» Love.⁠
» Life.⁠
⁠
A visual journal of a fish out of water who was constantly catapulted out of his comfort zone.⁠
⁠
An insider look at the realities of life as a long-term traveler.⁠
⁠
There was no business goal.⁠
⁠
I followed my heart and trusted that success would follow.⁠
⁠
And it did.⁠
⁠
Now, I’m rekindling that spark.⁠
⁠
I’m about to say YES! to a 15-year-old dream.⁠
⁠
The wait is over …⁠
⁠
The finishing touches are being applied …⁠
⁠
It’s time for …⁠
⁠
⁠
𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬⁠
⁠
𝙇𝙚𝙩 𝙖 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙂𝙚𝙤𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙧 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤:⁠
⁠
✔️ Bring friends and family along on your life’s journey … even if they can’t be by your side.⁠
⁠
✔️ Ignite your creative spark at home.⁠
⁠
✔️ Dazzle readers with whimsical wordplay and soulful storytelling⁠
⁠
✔️ Add pop and pizzaz to your photography.⁠
⁠
✔️ Create order in the chaos of your photo library.⁠
⁠
✔️ Breathe new life into old travels.⁠
⁠
✔️ Stay connected in a disconnected world.⁠
⁠
⁠
If you want to learn more about this 6-week online experience, drop a YES! 👇down there.⁠
⁠
Let’s do this together.⁠
⁠
A JOURNEY AWAITS! ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 11

Would the photo be better without the little airplane going over the mosque?

Would the photo be better without the little airplane going over the mosque? ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 10

I still remember being shocked by how golden California is.

I mean, considering it’s called the Golden State, it shouldn’t have been too surprising.

But, I could not have imagined that for most of the year, the rolling green hills I had seen on TV would actually be brown and dead.

Fortunately, it’s currently the rainy season.

That means things are green for a few months.

On a recent drive through one of my favorite corridors, I stuck my phone out the car window and snapped this beauty.

This pass of highway 580 is always a highlight of any drive - both for my kids and for me.

I love watching the windmills slowly turning on the rolling hillside.

And, when it’s green, that’s just an added bonus.

To me, it feels like that old Windows 95 desktop. Remember that?

I still remember being shocked by how golden California is.

I mean, considering it’s called the Golden State, it shouldn’t have been too surprising.

But, I could not have imagined that for most of the year, the rolling green hills I had seen on TV would actually be brown and dead.

Fortunately, it’s currently the rainy season.

That means things are green for a few months.

On a recent drive through one of my favorite corridors, I stuck my phone out the car window and snapped this beauty.

This pass of highway 580 is always a highlight of any drive - both for my kids and for me.

I love watching the windmills slowly turning on the rolling hillside.

And, when it’s green, that’s just an added bonus.

To me, it feels like that old Windows 95 desktop. Remember that? ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 10

How does this photo make you feel?

How does this photo make you feel? ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 9

"OMG! —— Oh. My. God! —— A BLIMP!!!!!"⁠
⁠
I still remember my glee as the blimp passed through the sky - perfectly positioning itself in between the spires of the Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral).⁠
⁠
Squeals of joy and excitement squeaked out of my mouth as I pressed the shutter.⁠
⁠
Even before the blimp's arrival, I was excited about the photo.⁠
⁠
Specifically, the positioning of the Hohenzollern Bridge up against the cathedral with the golden hour sun setting behind the spire.⁠
⁠
I had spent a lot of time wandering the Rhine riverside to find the spot.⁠
⁠
And then ... A BLIMP!⁠
⁠
Even now, 9 years later, I still am in awe of my luck.⁠
⁠
Thank you, blimp!⁠
⁠

"OMG! —— Oh. My. God! —— A BLIMP!!!!!"⁠
⁠
I still remember my glee as the blimp passed through the sky - perfectly positioning itself in between the spires of the Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral).⁠
⁠
Squeals of joy and excitement squeaked out of my mouth as I pressed the shutter.⁠
⁠
Even before the blimp's arrival, I was excited about the photo.⁠
⁠
Specifically, the positioning of the Hohenzollern Bridge up against the cathedral with the golden hour sun setting behind the spire.⁠
⁠
I had spent a lot of time wandering the Rhine riverside to find the spot.⁠
⁠
And then ... A BLIMP!⁠
⁠
Even now, 9 years later, I still am in awe of my luck.⁠
⁠
Thank you, blimp!⁠
⁠ ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 8

Hong Kong has the coolest neon signs!

Hong Kong has the coolest neon signs! ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 8

Happy Friday from foggy, fun, fantastic Santa Cruz, California

May you have an incredible weekend doing something that brings you joy.

Happy Friday from foggy, fun, fantastic Santa Cruz, California

May you have an incredible weekend doing something that brings you joy. ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 7

I had a really tough morning.

Lots of conflict with my son, Bodhi.

I could go into all the reasons.

» Stubborn.
» Angry.
» Tired.
» Yelling
» Highly emotional.
» Unreachable.
» Strong-willed.

Unable to stop, take a breath, and reset.

Yes. You guessed it.

I’m talking about both of us.

The Goodman boys on auto pilot.

Except the difference is, Bodhi is a 6-year-old child and I am a 41-year-old man.

As the adult, it is my responsibility to do what he is not yet capable of.

To regulate my own emotions.

To take a moment, reset, and respond from a heart space.

To hold space for everything Bodhi and his sister Luna are going through.

After hours of conflict, Carrie and the kids finally left for a day trip to San Francisco about an hour ago.

I have so much work to do.

So many ideas bouncing around my mind that I want to dedicate time to.

However, I when they left, I knew what my body, mind, soul, and self needed most was self-love and self-care.

So, after zoning out on the couch for about 10 minutes, I took action.

Put on my boots and went for a calming walk through the forest behind my house.

Came home and put my tush on the cush for a 10 minute meditation.

Then, I finally sat down at my desk.

That’s where I am now.

Why am I sharing all this?

It’s not for a pat on the back.

My friends, I share this because we all go there.

We all go to the dark place … whether we are parents or not.

What separates us from our children is that we have the capacity to take that moment.

Our brains are fully formed - even if they tend to run on autopilot and stale patterns.

It’s so essential to use our willpower.

To choose the path of awareness instead of the easy path of pushing the feelings away yet again.

When it feels the most difficult … thats when it’s the most essential.

How are you taking care of yourself today?

What coping strategies do you use?

Would love to hear whatever you want to share.

Thanks for reading and have a beautiful day. Q

Love,
Greg Goodman

I had a really tough morning.

Lots of conflict with my son, Bodhi.

I could go into all the reasons.

» Stubborn.
» Angry.
» Tired.
» Yelling
» Highly emotional.
» Unreachable.
» Strong-willed.

Unable to stop, take a breath, and reset.

Yes. You guessed it.

I’m talking about both of us.

The Goodman boys on auto pilot.

Except the difference is, Bodhi is a 6-year-old child and I am a 41-year-old man.

As the adult, it is my responsibility to do what he is not yet capable of.

To regulate my own emotions.

To take a moment, reset, and respond from a heart space.

To hold space for everything Bodhi and his sister Luna are going through.

After hours of conflict, Carrie and the kids finally left for a day trip to San Francisco about an hour ago.

I have so much work to do.

So many ideas bouncing around my mind that I want to dedicate time to.

However, I when they left, I knew what my body, mind, soul, and self needed most was self-love and self-care.

So, after zoning out on the couch for about 10 minutes, I took action.

Put on my boots and went for a calming walk through the forest behind my house.

Came home and put my tush on the cush for a 10 minute meditation.

Then, I finally sat down at my desk.

That’s where I am now.

Why am I sharing all this?

It’s not for a pat on the back.

My friends, I share this because we all go there.

We all go to the dark place … whether we are parents or not.

What separates us from our children is that we have the capacity to take that moment.

Our brains are fully formed - even if they tend to run on autopilot and stale patterns.

It’s so essential to use our willpower.

To choose the path of awareness instead of the easy path of pushing the feelings away yet again.

When it feels the most difficult … thats when it’s the most essential.

How are you taking care of yourself today?

What coping strategies do you use?

Would love to hear whatever you want to share.

Thanks for reading and have a beautiful day. Q

Love,
Greg Goodman ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 6

Have you ever heard of a “King Tides” event?

Here’s the short version …

King tides occur when the orbits and alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun combine to produce the greatest tidal effects of the year.

During low tide, the water is so far out that normally-hidden parts of the shoreline are uncovered … revealing a treasure trove of underwater life:

» Sea anemones
» Starfish
» Urchins
» Seaweed
» Fish
» Moss ...

And hundreds of humans walking around: taking it all in.

The King Tides are a favorite event for children of all ages.

Before moving to Santa Cruz, CA, I had no idea such things existed.

Now, they are a an annual family tradition.

The photos you see here are from the first King Tide of 2022.

Have you ever heard of a “King Tides” event?

Here’s the short version …

King tides occur when the orbits and alignment of the Earth, moon, and sun combine to produce the greatest tidal effects of the year.

During low tide, the water is so far out that normally-hidden parts of the shoreline are uncovered … revealing a treasure trove of underwater life:

» Sea anemones
» Starfish
» Urchins
» Seaweed
» Fish
» Moss ...

And hundreds of humans walking around: taking it all in.

The King Tides are a favorite event for children of all ages.

Before moving to Santa Cruz, CA, I had no idea such things existed.

Now, they are a an annual family tradition.

The photos you see here are from the first King Tide of 2022. ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 5

Carrie and I never planned to visit Patagonia.

The only reason we were in ChileSantiago was to visit the big heads on Easter Island.

As backpackers on a 6-month adventure across South America, we rarely planned things in advance.

It was kinda our thing.

So, when we arrived in Santiago with no plane tickets and dreams of leaving for Easter Island a few days later, we naturally assumed that everything would work out.

Oops!

Turns out, it was spring break in Chile.

Although flights were available the next day, the soonest return ticket was 40 days later.

So, we changed plans and went to Patagonia.

𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝘆 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱.

A place of unparalleled and untouched natural beauty.

Spanning southern Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is the most southern land a human can walk on Earth.

But, more than that, Patagonia is a place where we can rediscover the special connection humans used to have with nature.

The vast region is home to a wide array of topographies and environments.

» Mountains
» Lakes
» Fjords
» Glaciers
» Deserts
» Tablelands
» Steppes
» Pachamama!

𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗻𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗿.

When most people visit Patagonia, they plan their trip months or years in advance.

They pack a wide assortment of proper all-weather hiking and camping gear.

» Go on epic treks.
» Reconnect with nature.
» Prebook their tours.
» All that good stuff.

That was not our experience.

Carrie and my backpacks were filled with shorts, light hiking gear, and thin rain coats.

After visiting every travel agent in town, we learned that all multi-day treks were booked … and all warm rental gear was sold out

OK …
now what …

We had 10 days to play in Patagonia before our return flight …

Then, we remembered a piece of advice we had gotten from a fellow traveler.

Every day, cruises of Patagonia leave from Punta Arenas (where we were).

The majority of them are undersold.

If you go to the cruise office in person, you could sometimes score a sweet deal.

And that’s exactly what we did.

— KEEP READING IN THE COMMENTS ——

Carrie and I never planned to visit Patagonia.

The only reason we were in ChileSantiago was to visit the big heads on Easter Island.

As backpackers on a 6-month adventure across South America, we rarely planned things in advance.

It was kinda our thing.

So, when we arrived in Santiago with no plane tickets and dreams of leaving for Easter Island a few days later, we naturally assumed that everything would work out.

Oops!

Turns out, it was spring break in Chile.

Although flights were available the next day, the soonest return ticket was 40 days later.

So, we changed plans and went to Patagonia.

𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘆 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀, 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝘆 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱.

A place of unparalleled and untouched natural beauty.

Spanning southern Chile and Argentina, Patagonia is the most southern land a human can walk on Earth.

But, more than that, Patagonia is a place where we can rediscover the special connection humans used to have with nature.

The vast region is home to a wide array of topographies and environments.

» Mountains
» Lakes
» Fjords
» Glaciers
» Deserts
» Tablelands
» Steppes
» Pachamama!

𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗻𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗿 𝗴𝗲𝗮𝗿.

When most people visit Patagonia, they plan their trip months or years in advance.

They pack a wide assortment of proper all-weather hiking and camping gear.

» Go on epic treks.
» Reconnect with nature.
» Prebook their tours.
» All that good stuff.

That was not our experience.

Carrie and my backpacks were filled with shorts, light hiking gear, and thin rain coats.

After visiting every travel agent in town, we learned that all multi-day treks were booked … and all warm rental gear was sold out

OK …
now what …

We had 10 days to play in Patagonia before our return flight …

Then, we remembered a piece of advice we had gotten from a fellow traveler.

Every day, cruises of Patagonia leave from Punta Arenas (where we were).

The majority of them are undersold.

If you go to the cruise office in person, you could sometimes score a sweet deal.

And that’s exactly what we did.

— KEEP READING IN THE COMMENTS —— ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 4

How cool is this?

It’s an exhibition called “Ocean of Light: Submergence” at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History.

Here’s the official description:

“Step inside an immersive and interactive installation of lights, sounds, and movement created by U.K.-based digital arts collective Squidsoup.

Each step, touch, noise, and shift elicits responses from the thousands of lights dangling around you.

The culmination of a five-year research project exploring interactive media, Squidsoup has built a hybrid environment where virtual and physical worlds collide.

Immerse yourself in the waves of blues to greens to pinks as the sea of light takes you through the gallery.”

How cool is this?

It’s an exhibition called “Ocean of Light: Submergence” at the Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History.

Here’s the official description:

“Step inside an immersive and interactive installation of lights, sounds, and movement created by U.K.-based digital arts collective Squidsoup.

Each step, touch, noise, and shift elicits responses from the thousands of lights dangling around you.

The culmination of a five-year research project exploring interactive media, Squidsoup has built a hybrid environment where virtual and physical worlds collide.

Immerse yourself in the waves of blues to greens to pinks as the sea of light takes you through the gallery.” ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 3

Ever have one of those days where you just don’t want to be around other people?

Everything is annoying.

Everyone drives ya nuts.

You want to break out of the funk … but just can’t get yourself there.

You try everything.

… Meditation.
… Breathing.
… Taking a walk.
… Zoning out on the phone …

That was me last week.

And of course, it was a completely full day with my kids, wife +++ my wife’s aunt who is visiting.

I was a Grumpy Gus.

A Frowny Fran.

Not pleasant to be around.

As much as I wanted, I just couldn’t shift my mindset.

So, we decided to get out of the house and catch the sunset at a nearby beach.

I had the foresight to bring my DSLR with me.

I pretty much never use it anymore.

But, after seeing someone else’s epic sunset photos on Instagram, I was feeling inspired.

When we arrived, the sun was already kissing the horizon.

So I ran.

Fiddled with my camera settings on the go.

Found a nice spot to frame the nearby lighthouse.

Held the viewfinder to my eye …

… and felt the world outside my lens quickly melted away.

There was no grumpiness.

No distractions.

No broken record in my mind.

Just the present moment.

The satisfying feeling of my camera shaking with each shutter click.

The joy and excitement of framing each shot, setting my settings, and seeing how it came out.

Then, adjusting as needed and trying again.

Photography really is my Zen place.

What about you?

How do you break out of a funk?

Ever have one of those days where you just don’t want to be around other people?

Everything is annoying.

Everyone drives ya nuts.

You want to break out of the funk … but just can’t get yourself there.

You try everything.

… Meditation.
… Breathing.
… Taking a walk.
… Zoning out on the phone …

That was me last week.

And of course, it was a completely full day with my kids, wife +++ my wife’s aunt who is visiting.

I was a Grumpy Gus.

A Frowny Fran.

Not pleasant to be around.

As much as I wanted, I just couldn’t shift my mindset.

So, we decided to get out of the house and catch the sunset at a nearby beach.

I had the foresight to bring my DSLR with me.

I pretty much never use it anymore.

But, after seeing someone else’s epic sunset photos on Instagram, I was feeling inspired.

When we arrived, the sun was already kissing the horizon.

So I ran.

Fiddled with my camera settings on the go.

Found a nice spot to frame the nearby lighthouse.

Held the viewfinder to my eye …

… and felt the world outside my lens quickly melted away.

There was no grumpiness.

No distractions.

No broken record in my mind.

Just the present moment.

The satisfying feeling of my camera shaking with each shutter click.

The joy and excitement of framing each shot, setting my settings, and seeing how it came out.

Then, adjusting as needed and trying again.

Photography really is my Zen place.

What about you?

How do you break out of a funk? ...

adventuresofagoodman

Jan 2

How are you going to take better care of yourself in 2022?

I had a chance to answer that question as my first activity of the new year.

After an epic NYE day at the Santa Cruz boardwalk as a family and a harmonious meal at our favorite sushi restaurant, we were home by 8.

The kids were exhausted and went down quickly.

After snuggling then to sleep, Carrie and I laid in our family bed talking about life, our 2022 intentions, and reminiscing about past New Year’s Eves.

Before long, I was fast asleep.

Drool dangling.

Deep in dreams.

When I woke up and realized what had happened, it was only 10:30.

Carrie had no intentions of leaving bed - even before we fell asleep.

I, on the other hand, had not missed a NYE countdown since childhood.

So, with my mind still swimming in sleep, I left the bedroom.

Maybe I would watch a movie to wake me up …

Or meditate.

Or do some recordings for ”From Taking Photos to Making Memories.”

The mindless movie route seemed like the path of least resistance

So, laid down on the couch with my laptop … and promptly fell asleep before hitting play.

That wasn’t going to work!

Next, I pet the cat on the beanbag chair … and fell asleep again.

My mind and body were in a battle of wills.

“Do the thing.”

“Wake yourself up.”

“It’s New Years - you gotta stay up.”

“But I’m sooooooo tired!”

At this point, I decided to listen to my body.

Why was I fighting it?

Why should I force myself to stay awake for another hour just to say happy new year to myself and promptly go to bed?

Wouldn’t a better New Years tradition be to respect my body?

To go lay with my family and usher in 2022 with sweet dreams in the company of those I love most?

And that’s exactly what I did.

May your 2022 be full of listening to your body and respecting your needs.

Happy new year 🎊🎈 🎆

Love,
Greg

Ps. All photos are from our New Years Eve family outing to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk.

How are you going to take better care of yourself in 2022?

I had a chance to answer that question as my first activity of the new year.

After an epic NYE day at the Santa Cruz boardwalk as a family and a harmonious meal at our favorite sushi restaurant, we were home by 8.

The kids were exhausted and went down quickly.

After snuggling then to sleep, Carrie and I laid in our family bed talking about life, our 2022 intentions, and reminiscing about past New Year’s Eves.

Before long, I was fast asleep.

Drool dangling.

Deep in dreams.

When I woke up and realized what had happened, it was only 10:30.

Carrie had no intentions of leaving bed - even before we fell asleep.

I, on the other hand, had not missed a NYE countdown since childhood.

So, with my mind still swimming in sleep, I left the bedroom.

Maybe I would watch a movie to wake me up …

Or meditate.

Or do some recordings for ”From Taking Photos to Making Memories.”

The mindless movie route seemed like the path of least resistance

So, laid down on the couch with my laptop … and promptly fell asleep before hitting play.

That wasn’t going to work!

Next, I pet the cat on the beanbag chair … and fell asleep again.

My mind and body were in a battle of wills.

“Do the thing.”

“Wake yourself up.”

“It’s New Years - you gotta stay up.”

“But I’m sooooooo tired!”

At this point, I decided to listen to my body.

Why was I fighting it?

Why should I force myself to stay awake for another hour just to say happy new year to myself and promptly go to bed?

Wouldn’t a better New Years tradition be to respect my body?

To go lay with my family and usher in 2022 with sweet dreams in the company of those I love most?

And that’s exactly what I did.

May your 2022 be full of listening to your body and respecting your needs.

Happy new year 🎊🎈 🎆

Love,
Greg

Ps. All photos are from our New Years Eve family outing to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk. ...

adventuresofagoodman

Dec 31

𝐀 𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐢𝐝𝐨𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫, 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟏

Is it possible to organize a year?

How can we possibly categorize 365 days of entertaining events and magical moments?

As I sort through a year of photos, choosing my favorites becomes a Herculean task.

If my goal is to create a carefully curated collection of images, how can I choose?

When Carrie and I were traveling, it was simple.

I would pick a few dozen of my best fine art photos.

» Landmarks.  » Sunsets.
» Natural beauty.
» A cute photo of the two of us in an epic place.

Most photos would link to a story.

The end. 
Now, as parents of two kids, life moves so quickly.

If you don’t stop to look around once in a while, you might miss it.

** 5 bonus points if you get the reference.

Good thing my phone is with me at all times. Capturing the big moments and little details.

But, to go back to the original question, how can I possibly trim that all down to a small collection of photos.

How do I even organize them?

By location? Pretty much everything is within a 50 mile radius of our home. In fact, the majority were photographed right in my own backyard.

By season?

I live in California, we pretty much have two seasons. Sunny and rainy.

By milestones and holidays? There are too many of those to count.

𝐈𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟏, 𝐈 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐨𝐰.

» Red
» Orange
» Yellow
» Green
» Blue
» Violet
++
» Black
» White
» Rainbow
» Family

I also allowed myself to make a larger collection than usual.

Because like a rainbow, life is full of colorful moments …

Any limitations are self-imposed …

We can choose to follow the rules or make our own.

That sounds like a life worth living to me!

So, without further ado, here they are.

𝐀 𝐤𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐢𝐝𝐨𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫, 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟏

Is it possible to organize a year?

How can we possibly categorize 365 days of entertaining events and magical moments?

As I sort through a year of photos, choosing my favorites becomes a Herculean task.

If my goal is to create a carefully curated collection of images, how can I choose?

When Carrie and I were traveling, it was simple.

I would pick a few dozen of my best fine art photos.

» Landmarks.  » Sunsets.
» Natural beauty.
» A cute photo of the two of us in an epic place.

Most photos would link to a story.

The end. 
Now, as parents of two kids, life moves so quickly.

If you don’t stop to look around once in a while, you might miss it.

** 5 bonus points if you get the reference.

Good thing my phone is with me at all times. Capturing the big moments and little details.

But, to go back to the original question, how can I possibly trim that all down to a small collection of photos.

How do I even organize them?

By location? Pretty much everything is within a 50 mile radius of our home. In fact, the majority were photographed right in my own backyard.

By season?

I live in California, we pretty much have two seasons. Sunny and rainy.

By milestones and holidays? There are too many of those to count.

𝐈𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟏, 𝐈 𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐦𝐲 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐢𝐧 𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐬 𝐛𝐲 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐛𝐨𝐰.

» Red
» Orange
» Yellow
» Green
» Blue
» Violet
++
» Black
» White
» Rainbow
» Family

I also allowed myself to make a larger collection than usual.

Because like a rainbow, life is full of colorful moments …

Any limitations are self-imposed …

We can choose to follow the rules or make our own.

That sounds like a life worth living to me!

So, without further ado, here they are. ...

adventuresofagoodman

Dec 30

There are so many things to do in Santa Cruz, California.⁠
⁠
So many hidden local treasures.⁠
⁠
Epic hikes through redwood forests.⁠
⁠
Mystery spots.⁠
⁠
Small, non-crowded beaches.⁠
⁠
Yet, even after living here for 6 years, my favorite place to go is still one of the most touristic ...⁠
⁠
It's West Cliff Drive.⁠
⁠
Flanking the Pacific Ocean, this 4-mile road offers sweeping seascape views.⁠
⁠
Whatever you love to look at, it's there.⁠
⁠
Waves.⁠
Trees.⁠
Rocks.⁠
Surfers.⁠
Lighthouses.⁠
Seals.⁠
Seagulls.⁠
⁠
The list goes on.⁠
⁠
So, the next time you're in Santa Cruz, go where the tourists go and check out West Cliff Drive.⁠
⁠
Then, reach out and say hi to me and I'll share my favorite hidden spots for your next adventure.⁠
⁠
Love,⁠
Greg Goodman

There are so many things to do in Santa Cruz, California.⁠
⁠
So many hidden local treasures.⁠
⁠
Epic hikes through redwood forests.⁠
⁠
Mystery spots.⁠
⁠
Small, non-crowded beaches.⁠
⁠
Yet, even after living here for 6 years, my favorite place to go is still one of the most touristic ...⁠
⁠
It's West Cliff Drive.⁠
⁠
Flanking the Pacific Ocean, this 4-mile road offers sweeping seascape views.⁠
⁠
Whatever you love to look at, it's there.⁠
⁠
Waves.⁠
Trees.⁠
Rocks.⁠
Surfers.⁠
Lighthouses.⁠
Seals.⁠
Seagulls.⁠
⁠
The list goes on.⁠
⁠
So, the next time you're in Santa Cruz, go where the tourists go and check out West Cliff Drive.⁠
⁠
Then, reach out and say hi to me and I'll share my favorite hidden spots for your next adventure.⁠
⁠
Love,⁠
Greg Goodman ...

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