An observation Ann Landers made once in her column has always stuck with me: how important it is for us to be able to "entertain ourselves, entertain others and entertain new ideas."

As I interviewed globetrotter Barbara Stecher, this month's Quest Maker, I thought about how opportunities for all three  happen so easily and so often when you travel, especially when you are on your own.

It has been true for me, since the first time I really traveled on my own as an adult. In 1981, I spent five weeks traveling throughout Great Britain. Some of the time I visited with friends; the rest of the time I spent traveling on my own.

When I was solo, I followed my interests or my whimsy, and in the process, had some marvelous escapades. I entertained myself.

In England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland I was exposed to new ideas in the local newspapers and in conversations I had while on the trains, in the shops or in the pubs. I entertained new ideas.

By myself, I discovered that I was much more likely to strike up conversations with others than if I had a companion. Plans for adventures with other travelers just seemed to happen. I entertained others.

By inventing sketchbooking as a way to capture her adventures, Barbara uncovered an avenue for striking up friendships with people all over the world. Whenever she picks up a sketchbook, she entertains herself. Whenever someone enjoys her sketchbooks, she entertains others. Whenever she really looks at what she sketches, she entertains new ideas.

As you will see, Barbara actively engages the world. She is a tremendously interested woman, whether she is traveling or at home in Annapolis pursuing her passions. To me, it is that quality of being interested that moves all of us forward on our own journeys.

Being a tremendously interested woman is the way I want to be. What about you?