Last weekend, I attended my niece Sammy’s high school graduation party. Despite the fact that I cannot believe how time has passed, I had a great time. The party was an interesting mix of family, Sammy’s friends and family friends. Aside from talking about Sam, her college choice (Southern Illinois University) and the current success of the Blackhawks, I found one other great conversation topic — travel.

My family always asks me about what’s new at GT and where I have traveled. I discussed my recent trips to Detroit, Philadelphia and New York and my upcoming trips to Minneapolis, Indianapolis and Houston. Some of the younger crowd asked me about my recent trips to Citizen’s Bank Park in Philly and Citi Field in New York. In return, I heard many stories of spring break in various parts of Florida.

From the friends, I heard tales of trips to San Diego, Dallas, Toronto, Boston, Greece and the Bahamas. Some even said they got tips from GT. As I drove home that evening, I thought about how travel provided such a conversational link. I especially liked hearing stories of the same destinations as told by completely unconnected people, even more so if I had my own experience there. The different perspectives are fascinating.

As it got late (or early), a few of us even made a group trip plan. The logistics aren’t set, but it will include stops at SIU, the University of Illinois (for my nephew’s girlfriend) and Indianapolis (for a Colts game).

— John Wroblewski, distribution specialist