the earth ink

This isn’t how it was supposed to be – my life, that is. I was meant to follow the example of generations before me: Grow up in my homogenous “safe” community, earn good grades in school, make friends, play outside, and graduate from high school. Then I would dash off to a reputable university to obtain a degree—and that coveted Mrs. degree with the man of my dreams. Then, I would settle down in my small safe hometown and push the refresh and repeat button for my own child. I am literally on the other side of the world from those initial 22 years of aspirations. When I graduated with only a degree in communication I started facing the raw disappointment that my life would not follow the plan handed down from most of my family and female role models. I still desire pieces of that carefully preconceived notion about life’s path. But, I can see that every sentence of my story is woven like a thread into a fantastically intricate tapestry of experiences. None of my moments are worth retu...

Hosting the 2010 Summer Olympics, Vancouver found the perfect place for the Olympic Torch to burn bright during the Games. The non-traditional torch burned hot and bright against the mountains in the backdrop. I arrived back home from some travels just on time for the Vancouver Winter Olympics. A good friend of mine and I went into the City for a fabulous day celebrating Canada and goodwill toward everyone. The streets were electric, the skies blue, the people red and white with Canadian pride, and smiles were a permanent fixture on nearly every face. The perfectly warm temperatures were great for wandering the vibrant city streets, but a little less than welcome for snow sport enthusiasts! The permanent Olympic torch is the crowning snapshot on a picture-perfect day in Vancouver.