Away

Hello hello! I have been successfully avoiding writing in any way shape or form since school ended about a month ago... I have also read very little, explored very much, taken many-a-photo, worked my buns off in the gym, on the track and on the trails, and spent some serious quality time with friends and family. Now that I am away from home, I feel that I can relax a bit--it's strange how I give myself so many tasks and goals while I am in my own place, sleeping in my own bed, surrounded by things I know. One would think that home is a place to sit back and breathe, sleep, and recouperate. I manage to turn my home time into quite the opposite...I am constantly on my mountain bike, in the gym, attempting house projects, paddle-boarding, hanging out with friends, calling insurance companies, and organizing my next trip...it always comes so soon. And as that next trip is now upon me I am stepping back to realize that I need a bit of me time. I need some time to draw, write, read, take photos, and forget about the rest of the world. So I am going to do so.

During my 9 hour layover in the San Francisco airport yesterday, I realized I was constantly checking my phone and computer: text messaging, updating Twitter, Instagram, Whatsapp, checking out Facebook happenings, etc. I thought for a minute about what life would be like without these technical absurdities. And I have come to the conclusion that life can be lived without them. So here I go...a week without a virtual life. Considering the fact that I am in Maui, I don't suppose this will be too boring or difficult. I'm sure Julia and Stacey will keep my plenty busy, and I'll be in New Zealand and back to my crazy life in no time. When I get there I'll catch up with my blog: post photos, videos and perhaps words on the last few months of my life. But for now, I need a break. So goodbye virtual world and virtual friends. See you again very soon!

For now, enjoy this time-lapse video I created from a group-painting evening. Peace and love :)