The universe is against me. I know it is. Why else would I be thwarted every time I attempt to leave on this trip?
I am currently staying with my girlfriend in East Lansing, Michigan because the first state I am visiting is going to be Indiana. It made sense to leave from here instead of my parent’s house in Royal Oak. Unfortunately, the apartment complex she lives in doesn’t have extra spaces for guests–at all. More on that in a minute.
Every single time I’ve tried leaving I get held back by one thing or another. Here is a list of events that have prevented me from leaving so far:
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Hello. My name is Cory and I bought a van.
In an effort to better understand my country and neighbors, I decided to take the van on a trip around the country to each and every one of the 50 states. Taking a leisurely drive around the country would be too easy, though. I will complete this whirlwind adventure in one year—52 weeks—and one state per week.
I am visiting both urban and rural areas to experience the diversity of each state, and capture the stories, values, and challenges of everyday Americans.
My entire trip is being documented from start to finish through this website. The website contains updated posts of my progress in the form of text, pictures, and video. The website also features a live stream of updated information that details my current location, direction, and speed—so you can follow along as I make my way from state to state.
Starting from my home state of Michigan, I am snaking my way through the country, visiting one state at a time. I am putting a focus on being spontaneous as I skip my way across the United States and work towards my goal.
Throughout the trip I must find a way to pay for food and, most importantly, gas. To do this, I am accepting varying levels of sponsorship from people just like you—from day sponsors to individuals who want to sponsor the entire trip in some manner.
You can still help even if you don't want to sponsor the trip. I am looking for people to submit suggestions of places or people for me to visit. Know of a cool place in your town? Tell me about it and I just might stop by.
I am updating the website several times a day while on the road, so be sure to check often for updates—and leave feedback!

Cory Mawhorter, Border Hopping.com