Crunching Leaves

"Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.” - Greg Anderson

I'm cruising down a path, surrounded by the jewel tones of autumn; vibrant oranges, glowing golds, flaming reds. I'm in the middle of a loud silence- grasshoppers rustling in the drying grass, the breeze crackling through the trees, and yellow leaves crunching beneath my tires, tick-tick-tick-tick. This is the unique symphony of Utah in the Fall.

19 Months and Counting

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined."

-Henry David Thoreau

"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."

- Philippians 4:13

"You can do anything you put your mind to."

- My Mom 

These are three of my favorite and most encouraging quotes.
I see Henry's words every day at work in one of those cliche inspirational work posters. Except, this one actually is inspirational. I look at it every day and think to myself, "Hell yes!" and I'm freshly resolved to achieve the dreams that have been bouncing around my  head.

The Bible is self-explanatory. I basically have God on my side. 'Nuff said, right?

I'll get to my mom in a minute.

So, for those who don't know, a year and a couple months ago I went on a grand adventure to the UK and Ireland (and New York, too!) with my cousin. We planned it all ourselves, and we made it there and back again (like A Hobbit's Tale, but not by Bilbo). It was the first time I had gone anywhere without a parent, and the first time overseas! 

Upon returning home after 3 weeks of incredible adventures, I realized it was official, I was irreversibly infected with the travel bug. 

So, here I am, a year and some change and a few really awesome Stateside trips later. I'm so ready for my next adventure. 19 months from now I will be graduated with my bachelors of science, and the plan is I'll be on a plane on my way to Europe for several months! This is where my mom comes in. She always supports me, telling me that I can do anything that I really put my mind to. She's like my own personal inspiration poster. You should look into getting one, a Walking, Talking Inspiration Poster, though I don't think you can order them on Amazon...

 So, now begins the journey of saving, and planning, and dreaming! 

. 

Spain? Hell yes!