TRAVEL- Once again, it’s the thought. Now that I’m 18, I love planning future getaways with my friends and even starting to save for those dreams. Whether it be a day trip to Phoenix, or a month-long vacation to Europe, I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me and my wanderlust. I love looking back at old pictures from New York, California, and other places too.

CONCERTS- Even though concerts are not technically going on right now, it’s the thought of future concerts that fills me with joy. I love reminiscing about old concerts and experiences and dreaming of new ones. I recently “attended” a virtual concert for AJR tiled “One Spectacular Night” and boy, was it a spectacular night. Since I didn’t get to go see them for their Neotheater Part 2 tour, this experience filled that void. My parents also got me Disturbed/Bad Wolves tickets for August, so I can’t wait!

PAINTING- Painting is somewhat like journaling, but I get to express myself artistically and creatively. Staying inside is the safest option, and painting is more accessible than going to Target. It’s something I can distract myself with for hours on end, and express emotion and creativity.

JOURNALING- Being able to write out my thoughts and emotions has helped me cope with stress for a while now. Especially since I can’t always go to the mall with a friend when I’m upset and need to talk, I can write things down to help myself think through any hard situations. It’s relaxing and therapeutic to always have that outlet, no matter what is going on in the world.

PHOTOGRAPHY- Taking pictures has always been a hobby of mine. During these times, taking pictures or seeing pictures makes me feel more connected to society. Seeing a picture of my grandma in the sweater I got her for Christmas or me taking a picture with my co-workers at work makes me feel better about the abnormalities of life. Pictures capture moments, even when you can’t be in those moments.

MY DOG- Calvin is the loyalest boy and he’s kept me company throughout the pandemic. Whether I’m doing homework or just watching Netflix, he’ll be there laying next to me. I absolutely love my dog and he makes me so happy. Seeing him play with a chew toy or eat a treat makes me happy and I’m so thankful to have him.

SUNSETS- Sunsets are always beautiful in Arizona, but there aren’t a lot of beautiful things recently. I can always count on a sunset to put a smile on my face. There’s usually one every night, so I always have something to look forward to. Each sunset is beautiful and different in its own way.

LONGBOARD- Longboarding has become an escape for me. I’m learning something new, getting some sunshine, and having fun. I’ve wanted to learn for such a long time now. I can either skate on my own for some me time, or skate with a friend to spice things up. I haven’t learned something new and on my own in a while, so this really makes me happy.

MASKS- Some believe they don’t work and they’re just a nuisance. I don’t despise wearing them because it’s making me safer, the people around me safer, and they can be really cute! I just turned a negative into a positive and bought really cute masks with Mickey Mouse, sharks, cacti, and Care Bears. It’s also fun to color coordinate outfits and makeup with masks. (Wear your masks! :))

WORK- My job and the people there have kept me sane recently. When I clock in, I can forget about all outside stressors and just focus on working and having fun with my co-workers. I’ve made some really great friends there, experienced unforgettable things, and made good money. I’ve had so many laughs and made great relationships with so many people there.