Growing up I traveled a lot with my family and grew to absolutely love it.  I had the opportunity to participate in two mission trips in high school.  One was in Juarez, Mexico and the other in Key West, Florida.  Both of these trips gave me a better understanding of what life is like outside of my sheltered life in Iowa.  They opened my eyes to some of the more important things and life.  These mission trips were life changing experiences for me.

 

 

Playing with the beautiful children in Mexico

 

In Key West playing basketball with the kids

 

Once I came to college I continued my travels.  In May of 2007, my sophomore year, I traveled to Paris, France.  This was quite the experience.  Having absolutely no French background, everything was new to me.  I learned a great deal about the language and the country, but also a great deal about myself. 

 

Along with traveling, one of my favorite things to do is take pictures.  Photography can capture so many great moments; all the memories that you never want to forget.  Photography is definitely one of my passions and my camera goes nearly everywhere with me!  Below are a few photos I took while in Paris.

Capturing another beautiful spot in Monet's Gardens

 

 

 

Eiffel Tower-twinkles on the hour every night

Beautiful flowers at Monet's Gardens