Wednesday, September 30, 2015

A Year in Washington

I have been pretty inactive on my blog. I wanted to post all throughout my first year in Washington, as we can see that didn't happen. What I will say is that I was out living life. Lots of things happened over the course of the year and I wouldn't trade any of it. I am so grateful for the experiences I had, the people I met and the places I traveled to.

The goal for the coming months is to try and update the blog with my life. Short and sweet, but with lots of pictures. As we can see before, I can't guarantee anything.

A Year In Review







I came to Leavenworth, WA in August of 2014. I quickly grew to love my new home. I found a simply wonderful family (April, Don, and Carter) and housemate, (Yolie).




Photo Credit: Annette Jouard



















I was introduced to one of the best AmeriCorps group, Intermountain AmeriCorps.
Day of Service at WRI


I was given the tools to understand how to best serve. I also met some of the most giving, gracious, kind and simply fabulous souls. I could not have asked for a better group of people to go through service with.

Beautiful March morning

Having fun with fire science

My AmeriCorps service site, was absolutely fantastic. I served at Wenatchee River Institute, an environmental education non-profit.

Julia, Myself, Dee--Showing off our
new pedicures and Chacos of course


Here I met some of the best supervisors (Dee and Julia), had some amazing experiences, and learned a lot about what my dream job is.
















I made lots of new friends in the Leavenworth community.

23rd Birthday Pie Bonanza
They have all touched me in their own way. I am grateful for all of the advice, laughter and love they have shown me over the course of the year.

Griffith Observatory 






Unfortunately, in January I broke up with my long-term boyfriend. We ended on amicable terms and still keep in touch.






Photo Credit: Daniella Espinoza



Had my best friend come and visit me in Washington. I was able to spend an entire week showing her the beauty of my new home.



Photo Credit: Daniella Espinoza
















Many memories were made during this unforgettable trip. We even got matching tattoos.



I was introduced to hiking by some very patient and amazing people. Since then I have gone a multitude of hikes.

Colchuck Hike 

Stuart Lake Hike




By no means am I an expert. If anything, I like to say I "leisurely" hike. ;)


Looking out towards Mount Rainer








While I find some hikes very difficult, I still feel accomplished at the end. I am grateful for this new passion.





Looking toward downtown Vancouver




Traveled to Vancouver, British Columbia in Canada. I fell in love with this city and revived my wonderlust.






I have found a place that I am not quite ready to leave and am doing what I can to stay.

Sleeping Lady

"The Mountains are Calling and I Must Go."--John Muir

Until next time!

Much Love,
Taylor