Beyond Boundaries

From Nostrana to Food Carts: A Love Letter to Portland’s Food Scene

What is your favorite restaurant?

There’s something magical about a perfectly balanced wood-fired pizza.

If you’ve ever dined at Nostrana in Portland, OR, you know exactly what I mean.

But while Nostrana is my go-to for a cozy, sit-down meal full of refined Italian flavors, Portland’s culinary heart beats just as loudly in its countless corner food carts, each one packed with personality, flavor, and community.

Why Nostrana Stands Out

Tucked away in Southeast Portland, Nostrana isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Known for its rustic Italian dishes and impeccable attention to seasonal ingredients, every visit feels like a warm invitation to slow down, savor, and celebrate the art of cooking.

Some personal highlights:

The Insalata Nostrana: A Caesar-style salad that somehow makes radicchio crave-worthy. Wood-fired Pizza: Crispy, blistered crust with toppings that rotate with the seasons. Housemade Pasta: Think velvety tagliatelle with ragu or delicate gnocchi that melts in your mouth.

Chef Cathy Whims, a six-time James Beard Award finalist, brings an authenticity that’s hard to replicate. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner, a special occasion, or just to treat yourself—it always delivers.

But Let’s Talk Food Carts…

Now here’s the contrast I love: Just a few blocks or neighborhoods away, you can stumble upon a food cart pod serving up mind-blowing Korean burritos, Venezuelan arepas, or vegan Thai bowls—all out of a repurposed trailer.

And that’s what makes Portland’s food scene so unique.

It’s both/and—not either/or.

While Nostrana might be my favorite for a sit-down meal, the joy of ordering street food in the rain, eating elbow-to-elbow with strangers at picnic tables, and discovering a hidden gem for under $15? That’s a different kind of magic.

A Few Must-Try Food Carts:

Matt’s BBQ – Arguably the best brisket west of Texas. Birrieria La Plaza – Their birria tacos are a spicy, cheesy dream. Desi PDX – Indian-fusion with locally sourced ingredients and gluten-free options.

High-End Meets Street Food: The Portland Way

What ties Nostrana and food carts together is more than geography. It’s Portland’s shared philosophy around community, creativity, and quality.

Whether it’s a chef-driven kitchen or a mom-and-pop cart, Portland values the story behind the food. It’s why locals support both—and why visitors leave with a new appreciation for how a city can taste.

Final Bite

If you’re visiting Portland, go ahead and make that reservation at Nostrana—you’ll thank yourself later. But also take time to wander through a food cart pod, try something unfamiliar, and experience the joy of delicious contrast.

Because in Portland, fine dining and street food aren’t rivals. They’re neighbors.

What High School Taught Me (That I Didn’t Learn in Class)

Describe something you learned in high school.

High school is supposed to be all about textbooks, pop quizzes, and SAT prep. But when I look back, the lessons that actually stuck with me had little to do with memorizing the periodic table or solving for x.

Instead, high school became a crash course in real life — and none of it was graded.

Here’s what I really learned:

1. How to Read a Room

You don’t need a psychology degree to sense when a teacher is having a bad day — or when your friends are about to pull a harmless prank that could somehow definitely get you Saturday detention.

Reading people’s moods, understanding the energy in a room, and adjusting your approach accordingly? High school was the perfect training ground. (And honestly, this skill has saved me more times than algebra ever has.)

Lesson: People skills > Problem sets.

2. The Power of Showing Up

There were days I didn’t feel like going. Days when everything felt overwhelming — tests, projects, drama, life. But showing up, even on the hard days, taught me something powerful:

Consistency beats talent.

It wasn’t always the smartest students who succeeded. It was the ones who kept showing up — to class, to practice, to life. Grit quietly outperformed genius.

Lesson: Half the battle is being there.

3. Failure Isn’t Fatal

Failing a test felt huge back then. Like the world might actually end.

(Spoiler: it didn’t.)

High school taught me how to stumble — hard — and still find a way to get back up. Whether it was bombing a speech in front of the whole class or completely blanking during finals, I learned that failure doesn’t define you.

What you do after failure does.

Lesson: Fall down seven times, get up eight.

4. Friendships Are Seasons

I thought the people I met in high school would be in my life forever. Some are. Most aren’t. And that’s okay.

High school taught me that not every friendship is meant to last forever. Some friends are there for a season — to teach you something, to walk with you through a chapter, to help you grow. And when that season ends, you can be grateful without holding on too tight.

Lesson: Let go with grace.

5. Being Yourself is Risky — and Worth It

Trying to fit in was exhausting. Pretending to like the same music, clothes, jokes — it felt safer. But the moments when I actually let people see the real me? That’s when the best connections happened.

High school gave me a glimpse into one of life’s hardest (but most rewarding) truths: Authenticity might cost you something, but living a life true to yourself is worth everything.

Lesson: Be real. The right people will find you.

Final Thoughts

If I had to sum it all up?

High school wasn’t just about grades and homework. It was a training ground for life — full of invisible lessons written between the lines.

And maybe the most important thing I learned is this:

You don’t stop learning when you leave school. You’re just getting started.

How Embracing Change Turned My Life into the Adventure I’d Always Dreamed Of

Describe one positive change you have made in your life.

There’s a moment, somewhere between the safe routines and the wild dreams, where you realize: something’s gotta give.

For me, that moment wasn’t dramatic — no midair epiphanies or sudden career implosions. It was quieter. A restlessness, like a suitcase packed too tightly, ready to burst. I wasn’t unhappy, exactly. But I wasn’t fully alive either.

And so, I did what most people dream of but few actually do: I made a change.

I Chose Adventure Over Comfort

The positive change I made was simple yet radical:

I stopped waiting for the “perfect time” and started living like the adventure had already begun.

I said yes to spontaneous trips. I traded “someday” for “now.” I shifted my mindset from “I have to” to “I get to.”

Instead of meticulously planning every detail of life, I decided to trust the journey a little more — in travel and in everything else.

That shift? It changed everything.

The World Opened Up

With this new mindset, every day felt like stepping onto a train bound for the unknown.

• I explored places I’d only seen in photos — hidden beaches, mountain towns tucked in the clouds, ancient cities humming with stories.

• I met people who lived differently — artists, travelers, entrepreneurs who taught me that “success” isn’t one-size-fits-all.

• I collected experiences, not things — early-morning hikes, late-night conversations under foreign skies, the adrenaline rush of getting lost and finding my way back.

The more I embraced adventure, the more life gave it back to me tenfold.

It Wasn’t Always Easy (But It Was Always Worth It)

Choosing change didn’t mean everything instantly got easier.

There were missed flights, awkward language barriers, and days when I questioned myself hard.

But growth never comes from standing still.

Every wrong turn became a story. Every setback turned into a lesson. And somehow, even the tough moments became part of the magic.

Here’s What I Learned

• Adventure starts where certainty ends.

Waiting to “have it all figured out” is a trap. The magic happens when you move before you’re ready.

• Life rewards courage.

The first step is always the hardest. But on the other side of fear is where the good stuff lives.

• You’re never truly lost.

Maybe just… rerouted for a better view.

If there’s a change you’ve been thinking about making — a dream you’ve put on the back burner — consider this your sign.

You don’t have to uproot your entire life. You just have to take one step toward the life you can’t stop thinking about.

The map isn’t drawn yet — and that’s exactly the point.

Adventure is waiting. You just have to say yes.

Reintroducing Myself: A Fresh Chapter in Travel and Self-Development

Hey there, friend —

Even though this blog has been around for a while, I realized it’s time for a little reintroduction. Whether you’re new here or have been following along since the early days, I’m so glad you’re part of this journey.

I’m Alex, a traveler at heart and a lifelong student of self-growth. What started as a simple space to document my trips has evolved into something much bigger — a place where travel and personal development meet.

Over the years, I’ve learned that travel isn’t just about visiting new places — it’s about expanding your mind, stepping out of your comfort zone, and coming home a slightly different (and better) version of yourself.

Here on the blog, you’ll find:

• Real stories from the road — the highs, the lows, and everything in between

• Practical tips for traveling smarter and more intentionally

• Lessons learned along the way that you can apply to your own growth journey

If you’re someone who believes that every passport stamp (and every new experience) helps you grow into your best self, you’re in the right place.

Thanks for being here — and stay tuned. The adventure’s just getting started.

Tell me: what’s the next destination on your journey — literal or personal? I’d love to hear in the comments!

The Most Fun Ways to Exercise: VR, Hiking, and Social Workouts

What’s the most fun way to exercise?

Let’s be honest—sometimes the hardest part of exercising is actually wanting to do it.

But what if your workouts felt less like a chore and more like… playtime?

Good news: they can. By tapping into fun, immersive activities like virtual reality (VR) fitness, hiking, and social workouts, you can get fit and actually look forward to it.

Here’s why these are the most fun ways to exercise—and how you can dive in.

1. Level Up Your Workouts with VR Fitness

Imagine boxing, dancing, or exploring distant planets—all without leaving your living room.

Virtual Reality (VR) fitness turns exercise into a full-body experience that’s exciting, engaging, and incredibly effective.

Games like Beat Saber, Supernatural, and Pistol Whip combine cardio, strength, and agility training with addictive gameplay. You’re not counting reps—you’re dodging obstacles and breaking high scores.

Benefits of VR Workouts:

• Burns serious calories without feeling like “exercise”

• Boosts hand-eye coordination and reaction time

• Accessible anytime, rain or shine

• Gamified challenges keep you motivated

Pro Tip: Start with 15-20 minute sessions and build up. VR workouts can be deceptively intense!

2. Reconnect with Nature: Hiking Adventures

Nothing beats fresh air, scenic views, and the pure vibe of nature.

Hiking is one of the most enjoyable ways to exercise—and you don’t have to scale a mountain to reap the benefits.

Whether it’s a casual trail walk or a more challenging trek, hiking strengthens your legs, core, and cardiovascular system while reducing stress and boosting mood.

Why Hiking Rocks:

• Low-impact, high-reward cardio

• Strengthens stabilizing muscles

• Nature boosts mental health (it’s science!)

• Every hike feels like a mini adventure

Pro Tip: Use apps like AllTrails to find trails that match your fitness level, and always bring water and sunscreen.

3. Make Fitness Social (and Way More Fun)

Want to stay consistent and have a blast? Exercise with others.

Social workouts like group classes, dance sessions, or even a weekend soccer game inject energy and accountability into your fitness routine.

Laughing, sweating, and moving with friends releases endorphins and builds stronger bonds—which means you’re more likely to stick with it long-term.

Top Ways to Work Out Socially:

• Join a local running club or hiking group

• Try group classes like Zumba, CrossFit, or spin

• Plan regular active outings (beach volleyball, anyone?)

• Even virtual fitness challenges with friends can keep things spicy

Pro Tip: Schedule workouts like social events. Treat them as non-negotiable fun dates with your friends (and yourself).

Final Thoughts: Move Your Body, Love the Process

Exercise doesn’t have to be boring.

When you blend VR, hiking, and social activities into your routine, fitness becomes less about “have to” and more about want to.

The best workout?

The one you actually enjoy doing.

Ready to upgrade your fitness game?

Start small: try a 10-minute VR session, plan a weekend hike, or invite a friend to a yoga class. Your future self (and your mood) will thank you.

If I Could Be Any Character, I’d Be Olaf from Frozen — Here’s Why

If you could be a character from a book or film, who would you be? Why?

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to step into the shoes—or, in this case, the snow boots—of a beloved character? If I had the chance to be anyone from a book or film, without a second thought, I’d choose Olaf from Frozen.

At first glance, it might seem like an unusual choice. Why pick a talking snowman when there are daring heroes, brilliant wizards, and fearless warriors to become? But hear me out—Olaf embodies qualities that many of us strive for but often forget to prioritize in our busy lives.

Pure Joy and Optimism

Olaf is the very definition of pure-hearted optimism. No matter what obstacles he faces, he approaches life with wonder and excitement. Whether he’s dreaming about summer or making new friends, Olaf reminds us that life is meant to be enjoyed, not just survived.

In a world that often feels weighed down by negativity and stress, wouldn’t it be refreshing to view everything with Olaf’s wide-eyed enthusiasm? To greet each day as a new adventure, to see the good in every situation, and to genuinely believe that “some people are worth melting for”?

Unshakable Loyalty

Another reason I’d love to be Olaf? His loyalty knows no bounds. He’s always there for Anna, Elsa, Kristoff, and Sven—no questions asked. His commitment to his friends is heartwarming and reminds us what true friendship looks like: being there for others, not because you have to, but because you want to.

In a time when connections can sometimes feel fleeting, Olaf’s steadfast loyalty is something I deeply admire and would be proud to embody.

Curiosity Without Fear

Olaf’s childlike curiosity is one of his most endearing traits. He doesn’t fear the unknown—instead, he embraces it. Whether it’s exploring the enchanted forest or imagining what summer feels like, Olaf is fearless when it comes to discovering new things.

How often do we hold ourselves back because we’re afraid of failing or looking foolish? Olaf shows us that it’s okay to be curious, to ask questions, and to chase new experiences without worrying about the outcome.

Humor That Brings People Together

Let’s be honest—Olaf is hilarious. His sense of humor lights up every scene he’s in, bringing smiles even during the tensest moments. Humor, when used kindly and warmly like Olaf’s, has the power to build bridges between people and brighten even the darkest days.

Who wouldn’t want to be someone who can make people laugh just by being themselves?

Living Proof That Magic Exists

Finally, Olaf represents the magical possibilities that come from love, creativity, and belief. He was created from Elsa’s powers, but it’s his heart—full of kindness and wonder—that makes him truly special. Being Olaf would be a daily reminder that magic doesn’t just exist in fairy tales—it exists in the love we show each other and the dreams we dare to follow.

In the end, choosing Olaf isn’t just about becoming a funny snowman (though that would definitely be a bonus).

It’s about embodying joy, loyalty, curiosity, humor, and magic—all the things that make life truly beautiful.

And honestly, in a world that sometimes feels too serious, wouldn’t it be amazing to be the one who reminds everyone that there’s still so much to smile about?

If you could be any character, who would you choose? Let me know in the comments!

The Wild Quest: Discovering the Best (and Worst) Animals to Keep as Pets

What animals make the best/worst pets?

Imagine stepping into a secret marketplace hidden deep in the jungle. Stalls brim with the rarest creatures on Earth — from mischievous monkeys to majestic miniature dragons (okay, fine, iguanas).

You have a mission: to choose your ultimate animal companion.

But beware: Not every creature is cut out for cozy domestic life.

Ready for the adventure? Here’s your insider’s guide to the best (and worst) animals to bring home.

Best Pets: Your Loyal Sidekicks

1. Dogs: The Classic Heroes

If pets were adventurers, dogs would be your fearless captains. Loyal, energetic, and bursting with love, dogs are the gold standard for a reason. They’ll hike mountains, sail rivers, and binge-watch Netflix marathons with you.

Perfect For: Active souls craving loyalty and endless tail wags.

2. Cats: The Mysterious Allies

Cats are the rogue adventurers — independent, sharp, and elegant. They don’t need a constant guide; they’re off finding their own side quests (like conquering the kitchen counter).

Perfect For: Those who respect independence and love a quiet, purring companion.

3. Guinea Pigs: The Gentle Companions

Guinea pigs may be small, but they’re brave little explorers at heart. They thrive on social interaction, love a good snack quest, and rarely cause trouble.

Perfect For: First-time pet owners and families with kids.

4. Parrots: The Feathered Scouts

With colors that rival a pirate’s treasure and a voice to match, parrots are lively, intelligent, and full of personality. Some can even join you in conversation — or teach you a few tricks.

Perfect For: Social adventurers with plenty of patience (and a love for earplugs).

5. Bearded Dragons: The Chill Warriors

They look fierce, but bearded dragons are as calm as a monk meditating on a mountaintop. Easy to care for and full of quirky charm, these reptiles bring a sense of the exotic without the chaos.

Perfect For: Low-maintenance adventurers who still crave a touch of the wild.

Worst Pets: Creatures Best Left in the Wild

1. Tigers: The Untamable Kings

Sure, a tiger cub looks cuddly now. Fast-forward a few months and you’re living with 600 pounds of teeth and muscle. Tigers are apex predators, not housemates.

Danger Level: Legendary. Leave them to rule the jungle.

2. Monkeys: The Trickster Spirits

Monkeys may seem like fun little buddies, but behind those curious eyes lies chaos. They’re highly intelligent — and highly destructive. Think endless messes, bites, and heartbreak.

Danger Level: High. Better to visit them in wildlife sanctuaries.

3. Ferrets (for some): The Tiny Tornadoes

Ferrets are adorable bundles of energy, but if you’re not ready for constant supervision (and a home-proofing mission), they’ll turn your life into a daily obstacle course.

Danger Level: Moderate. Best for ultra-patient adventurers.

4. Exotic Big Cats (Lions, Cheetahs): The Mythical Beasts

Thanks, TikTok, for making exotic pets look cool. In reality? Big cats are dangerous, expensive, and miserable in captivity. They’re built for the wild plains, not studio apartments.

Danger Level: Mythical-level disaster.

5. Slow Lorises: The Silent Tragedy

Yes, they’re adorable. But slow lorises are endangered, venomous, and often suffer horribly in the exotic pet trade.

Danger Level: Heartbreaking. Admire from afar.

The Final Map: Choose Wisely

In this grand adventure of choosing a pet, the real treasure isn’t just cuteness — it’s finding a companion who thrives alongside you.

Golden Rule:

If the animal belongs in the wild, let it stay wild.

The best pets are those who are just as happy to join your journey as you are to have them.

So whether you pick a faithful dog, a wise old cat, or a chill bearded dragon, remember: the right sidekick turns any life into an epic quest.

Ready to find your loyal companion?

Comment below with the pet you’d choose to take on your next adventure!

The Job I’d Do for Free (And Why It Matters)

What job would you do for free?

Ever think about the one thing you’d do even if nobody paid you?

For me, that answer comes surprisingly fast — I’d be a creative connector.

Not just any creative connector — but someone who helps people bring their ideas to life through the perfect mix of words, energy, and strategy.

In a world obsessed with chasing the next paycheck, it feels almost rebellious to say:

“I’d do this for free.”

But when passion and purpose collide, money becomes the bonus, not the motivation.

What Being a Creative Connector Means

It’s about more than just brainstorming or giving advice.

It’s about:

• Helping someone uncover their message when they feel lost for words.

• Sparking energy into ideas that have been sitting on a dusty shelf.

• Strategizing how to turn “just another idea” into something magnetic.

• Seeing potential in people they sometimes forget they have.

It’s coaching. It’s copywriting. It’s creating.

It’s seeing someone’s light turn on — and knowing you helped flip the switch.

Why I’d Do It for Free

Because honestly, there’s nothing more fulfilling than watching someone realize,

“Wait, I can actually DO this.”

I’d do it for free because:

• Connection fuels me. Real conversations, real progress — that’s what matters.

• Creativity never runs out. The more you give, the more you have.

• Impact leaves a legacy. Helping someone believe in themselves ripples far beyond the moment.

When you operate from that space, you don’t just build projects — you build people.

How This Changes Everything

Funny thing about doing something you love for free:

People notice.

When you’re deeply aligned with your purpose, opportunities find you.

Collaboration becomes effortless. Growth becomes exponential. And fulfillment?

It stops being a someday goal and becomes your everyday reality.

So, here’s a challenge for you:

What’s the one thing you’d do for free — and how can you do more of it starting today?

Drop it in the comments. Let’s build something bigger than ourselves.

Olympic Wanderlust: Exploring the World Through My Favorite Sports

What Olympic sports do you enjoy watching the most?

Watching the Olympics has always felt like embarking on a global adventure—each sport a new destination filled with its own unique culture, landscapes, and spirit of exploration. There are a few sports that particularly ignite my wanderlust and thirst for adventure, making each Olympic season a thrilling journey from my living room.

First, there’s Surfing. Debuting recently but long celebrated across the beaches of Hawaii, Australia, and Indonesia, Olympic surfing embodies freedom. Watching surfers harness the power of the ocean, gracefully navigating waves, transports me instantly to sun-soaked shores and vibrant coastal communities. It’s a sport that captures the spirit of adventure, urging us to chase perfect waves and stunning sunsets.

Next, the high-intensity excitement of Alpine Skiing takes me straight to snow-capped mountains and picturesque winter wonderlands. As athletes speed down steep, icy slopes, I’m captivated by the breathtaking scenery of destinations like the Swiss Alps or the Rocky Mountains. Alpine skiing blends adrenaline with awe-inspiring nature, echoing the thrill of travel and exploration in colder climates.

Then, there’s the timeless charm of Track and Field events. The marathon, in particular, symbolizes an epic journey itself—endurance, determination, and the joy of exploration on foot. Each step taken by these athletes resonates deeply with my own adventures, reminding me of vibrant city streets, winding mountain paths, and trails that stretch endlessly into the horizon.

Lastly, Diving adds a splash of elegance and daring to the Olympic lineup. The precise artistry combined with sheer courage required for diving reminds me of cliff diving adventures in exotic places like Mexico’s Cenotes or the stunning cliffs of Greece. It’s mesmerizing to watch athletes leap fearlessly, embracing both beauty and risk in every dive.

Together, these Olympic sports encapsulate my passion for travel and adventure. They inspire me not only to watch and admire from afar but to seek my own thrilling experiences around the globe. As the world gathers to celebrate these remarkable feats, my wanderlust is reignited, and I’m reminded that life’s greatest adventures often await beyond the familiar.

If I Could Name Something After Me: The Pendell Path

If you could have something named after you, what would it be?

If I could name something after myself, it wouldn’t be a skyscraper or a stadium. It wouldn’t be a company or even a scholarship fund—though those are all great. No, if I could truly leave my mark on the world in a way that reflects my deepest values—faith, freedom, growth, and adventure—it would be The Pendell Path.

Imagine this:

A rugged, winding trail that stretches across continents. A global route for the soul-seekers, the bold-hearted, and those who crave both the beauty of the earth and the fire of transformation. The Pendell Path would be more than a physical trail—it would be a pilgrimage of purpose. A rite of passage for those wanting to live fully, love deeply, serve greatly, and explore widely.

From the misty highlands of Peru to the rice terraces of Bali, from the red sands of Wadi Rum to the wild coastlines of Portugal—The Pendell Path would connect sacred lands and cultures. It would be a living, breathing adventure that invites you not just to see the world, but to change through it.

Each checkpoint would reflect a core theme:

• Courage: A mountain climb in Patagonia where fear meets faith.

• Discipline: A silent retreat in a desert monastery where stillness sharpens the soul.

• Brotherhood: A communal build project in Uganda where strangers become family.

• Wonder: A stargazing sanctuary in New Zealand where the cosmos reminds you how small—and sacred—you are.

It would be a trail for modern-day wayfarers seeking more than just pretty views. It would challenge you physically, mentally, spiritually—and return you to the world renewed.

Why call it The Pendell Path?

Because I believe life isn’t meant to be static. We are meant to journey. To grow. To fail forward. To run toward the uncomfortable. To seek God not only in cathedrals but in the windswept cliffs, the quiet forest paths, and the generosity of strangers. And because the greatest adventure isn’t outside of us—it’s the one happening within.

One day, maybe this path will be real. For now, I’m building it with every step I take, every story I live, every young man I coach, every life I pour into.

And you? What would you name after yourself if you could? What legacy of movement, meaning, and mission are you creating?

Because the world doesn’t need more monuments to ego.

It needs more trails to purpose.

Let’s blaze one together.

Want more posts like this? Follow my journey on [LinkedIn/Threads/YouTube] where I share real tools for building a purpose-driven life of health, wealth, and holy adventure.