Travel Deeper. Write Boldly. Live Fully.

Hello! I’m Mary O.

Welcome! I’m a writer and passionate about writing books, guides, and articles that inform, empower, and inspire.

I write about diverse topics, but I am most passionate about writing about writing, people, places, travel, and living well, focusing on matters of particular interest to Africans and African Americans.

So, whether you are starting a new writing project, planning a travel adventure, or seeking ways to live the life you want for yourself, my guides are created with you in mind!

Learn More

Travel Blog

  • The Strange, Beautiful Pull of a Country You’ve Never Been To
    Have you ever felt an unexplainable pull to visit a country you’ve never set foot in? A place you have no ties to—no family roots, no ancestral connections, no practical reason to go—but still, something deep inside whispers, Go there. It’s a funny kind of pull, isn’t it? Mysterious. Intangible. Almost otherworldly. It makes you….
  • Vegan and Vegetarian Meals in West Africa
    What’s the Difference Between Vegan and Vegetarian? Before we get into the delicious plant-based food options in West Africa, let’s clarify the basics. Vegetarians avoid meat, poultry, and fish but may consume dairy and eggs. Vegans take it a step further—no animal products at all, including dairy, eggs, and honey. If it comes from an….
  • What to Do Before You Go: A Checklist for Senior Travelers
    So, you want to travel, but you’re feeling a little unsure? Don’t let age—or uncertainty—hold you back! Pack those bags and get moving. Sure, we have a few extra concerns as we age—mobility, travel companions, logistics—but none of these things should stop you from going for it! My What to Do Before You Go Checklist….

Writing Inspiration

  • How to Avoid Feeling Overwhelmed When You Write: Little by Little
    Writing can feel overwhelming sometimes, can’t it? The deadlines, the ideas swirling around, the pressure to get it all done—it can be a lot. If you’re feeling this way, take a moment to breathe and look to nature for some wisdom. There’s an African proverb that says, “Little by little, the bird builds its nest.”….

Mary’s Picks

Ready to explore the world, express yourself through writing, or live your best life after 50?

Whether you’re here for the inspiration, the tips, or the free guide, you’re in the right place. When you sign up, you will receive inspiring reflections and gentle prompts that invite you to travel deeper, write boldly, and live more fully—wherever you are on your journey as a welcome gift, you’ll also get my free guide: Travel Deeper, Write Boldly, Live Fully — packed with ideas to help you travel with purpose, write what’s in your heart, and live fully in this season of life. Sign up now to stay connected, get inspired, and grab the guide (or not — it’s totally up to you).

Join My List!

A Red Sunflower Website