Even though I haven’t started really sharing recipes, travel, culture or anything else here as of yet- It doesn’t mean there hasn’t been much going on behind the scenes with me personally.

As life begins to open again- borders and tourism begins to open and we ease in to what is the “New Norm”, I have found myself more than ever over this last year and a half more interested in learning and expanding my knowledge. I don’t believe it was because the borders were closed and I couldn’t simply ‘go’ whenever I wanted, although- like many things- we tend to want what seem unattainable, albeit for a short amount of time.

My heart has always been in the experience of cultures, people, food and stories when traveling. Learning about the culture- and while I only speak two languages fluently- someone once told me that simply attempting the language in the country where ever your travels may take you- means a great deal to the locals, and I’ve found that to be true.

The past year of no travel has given me a lot of time to reflect on my previous travels and all that I loved about each place. Every time it comes back to the same responses, it doesn’t matter where the travel took place. Be it Prague, Bulgaria, Scotland, Austria, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Italy, England and the list goes on- It’s the people. The culture the ‘local’ spots that are off the beaten path from tourists and where you can find the locals gathering and sharing their own life stories, experiences and fun.

Those are what awaken my soul and bring me deep seated joy.

If you’ve ever traveled with me outside of the country- you’ve seen it first hand and maybe even found yourself annoyed by the fact that I love talking to the locals and hearing their stories-

It is in hearing someone else’s stories and life experiences that we not only see them, but also we expand ourselves.

Wherever we are- I encourage us all- to be all there. Fully present- as that moment is fleeting and should be enjoyed .