Skating across America

She sits in an office chair with an aura of relaxation, like sharing a latte with an old friend. Her smile implies innocence but is really a positive outlook on life that opens unexpected doors on her journey from one of the southern most points of the U.S. to near the northwestern most.

Yanise Ho, social media as "The Bladress," recently passed through Sidney on her way to Portland, Ore., via rollerblades.

Yes, this young woman is taking in the countryside a few miles at a time, separated from the road by a handful of polymer wheels that keep her moving from one community, one overnight stay,...