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The Barefoot Beat

  • North America, Travel Stories

    “Happy Ruins”

     I’m sitting in the shade gazing at the beautiful ruins of Tulum and trying to discourage a hungry iguana from eating my mango.These not-so-small critters are everywhere in Tulum! In the distance…

    June 26, 2013 by Mariah
  • Solo Female Travel, Travel Stories

    It happened to me

    I can sense him walking behind me, too close for comfort. I’ve ignored his shouts of “Hey, hey!” and picked up my pace. He comes up beside me and asks if I…

    June 23, 2013 by Mariah
  • Faith, Travel Stories

    A Traveler’s Prayer

    Thank you Lord for a safe place to rest my weary head tonight, for shelter and the privilege that comes with it. Thank you for directing my paths when I am helplessly…

    June 22, 2013 by Mariah
  • Life Musings

    Photo Friday- Postcards From Around the World

    I would like to introduce a series I’m starting next week called “Photo Friday” featuring you! I want to share your best photos from around the world each week in a postcard…

    June 21, 2013 by Mariah
  • North America, Travel Stories

    Revisiting the ruins of Teotihuacan

    We’re sitting half-way up on one of the platforms of the Pyramid of the Sun, resting our sore legs and catching our breath. Suddenly, the señora next to us starts shouting, “Ladies and…

    June 18, 2013 by Mariah
  • North America, Travel Stories

    The Colors of Guanajuato

    The cobblestone streets are glimmering from the quaint streetlamps reflecting light in puddles left over from an afternoon storm. Music fills the air as crowds gather to watch the Callejoneadas dance through…

    June 13, 2013 by Mariah
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About Me

About MeHello! I'm Mariah. I'm a travel writer, poet, and debut novelist living in Southeast Tennessee with my husband and son. In 2013, I quit my job as an ICU nurse to backpack solo around the world—a journey that became the foundation for my debut novel, "The Pattern Shop" (coming in 2026!). I started this blog to share those adventures and have been documenting my journey of finding home, healing, and a simple life of adventure ever since. When I'm not writing, you'll find me exploring the outdoors, advocating for social justice, and cultivating community. My hope is to inspire you to live your own life of love and adventure, wherever you are. Let's do this, together!

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