Ashley M. Halligan is a freelance writer living her dream of being geographically independent out in the world and on the open road. As the founder of Pilgrim Magazine, storytelling and human narratives are her biggest loves, with work appearing in publications like Backpacker and Alaska magazines. She believes in slow living, mindful journeys, and cross-country roadtrips. Ashley also has an affinity for live music, Jack Cousteau (her dog), red wine, the Beat Gen, house slippers as shoes, grandads, mountains, the Redwoods, and a dreamy island called Faial. You can follow her adventures on Instagram at @byashleymhalligan or say hello: curious@pilgrimmag.com.