Welcome to Steemit! I used to live in IL, now I'm in BC, Canada. lol! Love the Pacific NW.

I enjoy travel, photography, books, so many of the things you stated here. I too am a dabbler in many things. I saw your post via @mountainwashere's resteem (yay for friends). There's a lot to learn on this platform, but if you learn a little each day, stick with it, and have fun, you'll meet some amazing people. Steem on! :)