My life has never been normal – in fact, what is normal? It is jam packed with adventure, drama, love, and did I mention more drama? I have gone through things that would make you cringe, and make you scream. If I told you the stories from my life so far, your jaws would drop.

My step-dad went into a coma because of a doctors mistake and then passed away within days of my high school graduation. I decided to postpone college to spend time with my family, to cope with this sudden grief and the tragic passing in our lives. After a couple of years my family and I decided to move to a new state, and I ultimately decided that it was time to go back to school. However, a few months into my first semester at college, my mother got diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

I have been AWOL from twitter, blogging and social media in general. With school and taking care of my mom after surgery that quite possibly saved her life- thanks to a fantastic doctor in California, to which I cannot thank enough; as well as the support of my amazing friends and family. It became quite difficult to focus on blogging, or my career in general. I sort of disappeared from the blogging world, and I am slowly making my way back in.

No. My Life is not normal, but it makes me stronger than ever. I learned not to take things for granted. I learned to be loyal to my family and friends. I make an effort to say I love you to my family and friends. I also learned that my mother is amazing and so strong willed. The fact that she showed cancer who’s boss is just awe inspiring. Through all the trials and tribulations, all the curve-balls and the roller coaster rides I have endured, I am incredibly lucky to have the support of my amazing friends and family, without them I would not be who I am today. Thank you everyone 🙂

I am excited to start the next chapter in my life- in which I will be Sailing around the world with Semester at Sea! Stay tuned for more details, as well as where in the world I will be going next! Hope you enjoyed the bittersweet lowdown.