the countdown begins

"People who really want to make a difference in the world usually do it, in one way or another. And I’ve noticed something about people who make a difference in the world: They hold the unshakable conviction that individuals are extremely important, that every life matters. They get excited over one smile. They are willing to feed one stomach, educate one mind, and treat one wound. They aren’t determined to revolutionize the world all at once; they’re satisfied with small changes. Over time, though, the small changes add up. Sometimes they even transform cities and nations, and yes, the world."

Beth Clark

Words that speak to me tonight. As I prepare for my trip to Kenya in a month, I am reminded of the specific people I met this summer. The ones who changed my life forever. I find it hard to feel as if I have a greater purpose when in the Western world. I know this is not my home forever and I have a horrible habit of rushing everything. But, for everything there is a season, and that is what is replaying in my head all night. Contentment. The goal of the year. 

And with that, my heart waits for Kenya. But I am here now, and I am going to use this time to the fullest. 

 

A bit of this and that!

It's the new year, so I'll be better about posting....haha. No promises there but hopefully! Anyways since my last post all kind of things have happened. I am currently writing from North Carolina where I am visiting my sister for he holidays. These past two weeks of vacation have been a much need break from reality and I am not quite sure I will ever be ready for reality again.
Since coming home, I have caught up with friends, hugged everyone in my family (multiple times at that), taken my sisters engagement photos, caught up with a friend I made in Africa, brought in the New Year with the Avett Brothers, and had quality sister time with my best friend.
My New Year is definitely off to a great start. What did you all do for New Years? I'm not much of a New Years person, or a resolutions person, but I like the symbolizing behind the New Year. A clean slate. That's pretty cool.

L'Automne

While winter is fast approaching here, but I think Thanksgiving is the perfect time to think about all the wonderful things about the fall season. The leaves, the colours, the smells, the chill in the wind, the warmth of pumpkin-y baked goods, and the list goes on. Fall and winter are my two favourite seasons, mainly because I love the fashion associated with them and also because the mood around those seasons is so unexplainable and beautiful. I think Kinfolk did an amazing job capturing the essence of fall (as always) in this short little video.

Autumn Senses | Vol. 5 from Kinfolk on Vimeo.

And on a more personal note, I just got back from spending a fun evening with some girls from my community group. I am really growing to love all of them (and the boys too!) and look forward to spending at least one night a week with them. Tonight was a shower for a lady from Initiative who just had a baby boy. He was TOO cute. I can't get over it. I seriously should not be allowed to hang out with children, baby envy forever. 

I hope you are all having a wonderful week, and for those celebrating, have a wonderful thanksgiving tomorrow!

American Thanksgiving, Musings, and Life in General

Why hello there, to all my new followers and all those who have put up with my LONG MIA sessions recently. But, as school is coming to a close (who am I kidding, more like as school is getting more serious), I am trying to focus a bit on my blog, my friends and life.

Since, I am an American, stuck up here in Canada for the wonderful holiday of Thanksgiving, I have rounded up two southern girls to celebrate with me! Not being with family on Thanksgiving is still a bit weird, but growing up happens and moving out happens and it's new. Everything is new. And this is different, but not bad different, just different different.

So here is to new traditions!

On another note, way back in October (honestly feels like years ago), the Canadian celebrated their Thanksgiving and I was lucky enough to join in on this celebration of thankfulness! I was invited to one of my best friends places in Ontario. It was nothing short of magical. We spent the long weekend roaming around her tiny town, wandering in the forest, chatting with her family and eating SO much food. I have nothing to complain about.

Please explain to me how life gets any better than this. Also, there were about a million more photos that I didn't post but I'm sure they will show up at one point!

What are you thankful for this holiday season?

"Personally I like going places where I don’t speak the language, don’t know anybody, don’t know my way around and don’t have any delusions that I’m in control. Disoriented, even frightened, I feel alive, awake in ways I never am at home."

Michael Mewshaw 

As many of you have probably figured out by not, traveling is my passion. I love the excitement of a new place, or even a same place that I get to revisit. I love soaking in life and experiences; languages and site; food and drink. The only problem with being an adventurer, is the times that lack adventure. The times when routine sets in and you have to settle your mind somehow. This is me right now. I am having a difficult time being content with life currently. I long to be on a plane, long to be taken to a far away land. Contentment is a double edged sword as I look at. Being content where you are is good, but never stop striving for what is in store for you.  I am trying my hardest to seek what he wants for me, and learning day by day what that is. 

{Live Without an Off Switch}

Hello all, and welcome new followers! So sorry for the crazy lack of posting but this school thing and job this is a bit overwhelming. Thanks so much for the sweet comments on my new home and enjoyed reading all of them :) 

Today is the release date of the latest edition of Off Switch magazine, which I was featured in! The theme of this issue is "Lessons Learned" and I wrote a story about my Kenyan Adventures. Katie, the head girl behind this amazing magazine, has this to say about Off Switch, "Off Switch Magazine is a quarterly print magazine aimed at inspiring readers to live without an off switch. By showcasing the talent of folks around the country who are following their passions with energy and enthusiasm, we hope to motivate others to pursue their dreams." I would highly recommend checking out Off Switch and maybe buying a copy for your self! I am so blessed to be a part of this and can't wait till my copy arrives!

Forgot to add the link! But you can find the Volume 4 here.

 I have several more exciting posts coming soon :) 

{New Home}

After a long week of moving and unpacking and buying (lots of buying, thanks mom!), the apartment is almost all ready for life! Sorry about the long hiatus, I am just sure you were all on the edge of your seat waiting to hear about my life... haha, or not. This apartment is so perfect- perfect location, perfect size and with the perfect room mate! Here are a few photos of our living room and kitchen.

We have been enjoying exploring our new area and being in the center of things. Its a whole different world over here! Now its relaxation and adventures until school starts! And in other exciting news, I am now working for a wonderful wedding photography company here in Montreal, Blushing Brides Studio. Check them out! It is such an amazing opportunity and I can't wait to see what comes of it!

Have an awesome Tuesday everyone!