A Collection of Catching Up...

Once 2018 hit I was sure to update the blog more frequently. The conflict I was presenting myself with was that I had been lacking on so many experiences that each post that was to come were not present moments, but experiences that had come to past.I find enjoyment in reliving these times, however I am enjoying where I am right now so much that my inspiration is coming from now. 

I am now committing to share what comes to my thoughts, but not focusing solely on sharing what has already passed. Each day, month and place we have been has created an amazing part of this journey.

Can you believe it is coming to the end of January 2018? This month has swiftly flew by and so much has presented itself within the new year. Michael and I have been staying in Nelson at Fairfield for over a month now, and I truly have no complaints. Fairfield house is such a special place, and I feel connected to it. When I traveled to New Zealand back in March of 2107 I spent the majority of my time here. I believe that the humans that find themselves here, find a part of who they are. Fairfield leaves an incredible imprint. 

Since arrival to the home I have been greeted with many familiar faces and many new. The travelers that we get to create a community with are all so amazing and beautiful. Spending the holidays here at Fairfield created some of the most treasured memories. It was incredibly strange at first leading up to Christmas, as there is no snow, not plenty of decor and few Christmas trees. Unlike in the States, Michigan in particular. Other than that difference, the weather was unbelievably hot and beautiful. For Christmas Day we had a community lunch/dinner, so much deliciousness. Michael and I made a lentil, mushroom rosemary loaf inside of filo dough, it was savory and delicious. There were so Many desserts as well - silken tofu mousse with fresh berries, cookies, cakes, crepes and so much more. The neat thing is that all our cultures could create and coincide together. That is the beauty of travel, the humans you meet and the acceptance you share. I dream the day everyone experiences this acceptance and love. 

New Years 2 0 1 8. Have I mentioned that I have been alcohol free since leaving Michigan? I can admit the holidays were the toughest battle within, watching everyone celebrate with alcohol was tempting, however I made it! I had a moment before leaving where I just was so sick of how it made me feel, and that thought that it does nothing for me - as in, it does not serve me anymore, it does not serve my growth. That doesn’t stop me from having a great time! I have had so much fun without alcohol. Before I use to have a drink to "let loose” or even feel comfortable dancing in public. Now I have come to a place of peace with who I am, I will bust a move and get down without a drop of drink. I honestly can say I love it. I feel free, and I don’t have a hangover the next day. I have felt amazing.

On New Years Eve everyone at Fairfield celebrated with a DIY Pizza party and then headed into town for the 80’s fest. Which we did not know was themed 80’s. Truly the warmth of NZ has been so great, I would be 95% okay without winter in Michigan for the remainder of my lifetime. We danced into the new year, sweaty, free and smiles.

On New Years day Michael and I soaked up the Sun at Cable Bay. One of my favorite places. The water so clear and blue as I remembered. Returning to New Zealand has been one of the best decisions I have made, to have Michael here makes it that much better. 

When I was living on a day to day routine with work, friends and the ‘norm’ it is sometimes hard to embrace the ,”each day is a new day” attitude. Here, and whilst traveling, each day is a new experience, and sometimes you have no clue what you will be doing when you wake. It is so enriching for an individual who struggles with mundane routine. Somedays I am a hairdresser, somedays a gardener, somedays a bartender, somedays a cleaning lady, somedays an event promoter, other days a barista…I wear whatever hat suits for the day. I  L O V. E it. The ever-changing days, roles and objectives. I love the stories and faces. The paths we cross are for a reason, and a season.

In the hat of the hairdresser I have been pleased to be able to create a lovely look for the beautiful Emilie. Emilie is another traveler , from the South of France. Her spirit and energy is so positive and beautiful. When you’re around her she lights up a room and ignites a wonderful feeling. 

Here is the Before/After of our lovely transformation. 

Using GKHair’s Miami Bombshell Clay Lightener (no toning necessary) and hand painted a contouring balayage effect. Very natural and soft.

Whilst being at Fairfield I have had the pleasure of being able to style the hair for the woman cast of the Summer Shakespeare. This years play was The Twelfth Night. The era for this was chosen to be the 1920-30s so I got to embrace headbands, finger waves and soft romantic curls. Doing hair for theatre has not really been something I experienced much with, however it sparked something for me. Being a part of the magic that happens here in Nelson has been such a blessing. Like I said, Fairfield helps you discover more of who you are.

Until next time, Xoxo