Where I’ve Been: Tracking It
Travel Blog • Jenna Schnuer • 03.27.09 | 11:31 AM ET
Photo courtesy of Amy Ruppel.Since I (semi-permanently) dismissed the idea of getting a tattooed map of the U.S. on my person in order to mark off, one tattoo pin at a time, where I’ve traveled, I’ve been on the hunt for a new way to detail where I’ve been. (Please don’t recommend a scrapbook. I’m not that girl.) I think Facebook “where I’ve been” maps are annoying and show-offy. And a traditional pinned map still appeals but ... I just haven’t found a U.S. map I want to stare down at all the time. But, today, I found my new I’ve-been-there collection idea: prints of artist Amy Ruppel’s state birds pieces. As my bank account allows it, I’m going to build the collection, bird by bird. I guess I’d better clear some wall space.
How do you mark your territory?
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Freelancer Jenna Schnuer writes about travel, food, culture, books, and life's quirky bits (and bites) for publications including American Way, National Geographic Traveler, Southern Living, and many others. She also co-writes Flyover America, a site filled with quieter stories from around the U.S. Send Jenna an email or, if you're so inclined, follow her on Twitter.
Sophia Dembling 03.27.09 | 12:17 PM ET
Ah, those are lovely. I might have to have Texas. And I know a good framer… ;)
I like postcards and refrigerator magnets.
Jenna Schnuer 03.27.09 | 1:13 PM ET
So pretty, right? For anybody who thinks “hmmm, those feel a little familiar.” The artist did some work with Target a bit back—so you might recognize her style from their ads. I just love her stuff. Her pieces are instant relaxation.
And yes, I hear you do know a marvelous framer there in TX, Sophie…if I lived closer, I’d show up on his shop step with some of these myself.
W. Robinson 03.27.09 | 3:37 PM ET
Facebook’s “Where I’ve Been” might have been cool when they started, but I really don’t see their appeal any longer. Perhaps they are really just used to track users and sell their information. Most people can’t even afford to do much traveling these days anyway. It was a fad.
Jenna Schnuer 03.27.09 | 3:42 PM ET
Yeah, I have to admit that I’m getting a leetle paranoid about FB quizzes and all. Too much life tracking—not enough benefit to the user for offering up all that info.
Grizzly Bear Mom 03.27.09 | 5:56 PM ET
I thought that we were trying to keep all our information private, and have always thought that “A wise sheik never lets his enemies know how many wives or camels he has”. Translation: Don’t let people know your business unless its in your best interest. You would be amazed what comes back to haunt people.
Craig Howat 03.27.09 | 8:26 PM ET
I enjoy purchasing patches of the places I vist. They adorn my schoolbag!
Jenna Schnuer 03.27.09 | 11:52 PM ET
I love it Craig. No matter where you move for the rest of your life, please don’t ever let the temptation to clear clutter (a silly notion, but some go through it) push you toward getting rid of it. That bag’s a keeper.
Emma 03.30.09 | 6:41 PM ET
I don’t know how this works domestically, but when I travel to other countries I always buy a stamp or two just for a keepsake.