About

The blog

This blog of mine was started way back in the summer of 2011. While technically I have been apart of the blogging world for nearly 4 years now it's safe to say I have not been consistent, until recently when a fire was lite (also known as post-graduate boredom). Initially this blog began simply as a motivation tool used to get my butt running, and then my world got rocked with a short term missions trip to Rwanda (1, 2, 3, 4) and Ethiopia (1 & 2). Two days. That's all that it took for me to decide Rwanda, specifically the Noel Orphanage in Gisenyi, was where I needed to be. I emailed my parents I had some big news and finished off the trip excited about what was in store. With my mind made up and God's clear "go" I moved to Rwanda four months later. For the next year God did some serious work both in and through me. I had the opportunity to travel to Uganda (1, 2, 3), Kenya (1, 2, 3, 4, 5), and Tanzania. Through God's leading I started a business for the local men where they were able to learn a new skill while making an income (I have since merged His Imbaraga with Tara's business No.41). And I met some amazing people that will always have a place in my heart. Since returning to the states I have actually managed to graduate from college with a B.S. in Psychology and move out of my parents house. Which means to say I am officially considered a grown-up. This unknown territory has led to this blogs new focus: figuring it out. Content will range from day-to-day life, travel, recipes, DIY projects, natural living, budgeting, what God is teaching me, and all the embarrassing in between moments. I hope you stick around!

The girl behind the blog

I should probably start with me name. My name is Elise and I am 20-something or another, also known as 24. I love to run and do absurd workout videos whenever I can, but I also enjoy a good binge on Netflix where my bum doesn't leave the couch several hours. My love of burgers, pizza, cookies, and soft serve ice cream is my main motivation for the moving and grooving that occurs. I've always had a love affair with writing. When I was in the first grade I wrote and illustrated a book about a dinosaur. It was entered into a contest and I won. Like a boss. Since then I've been riding the high. With a love of writing comes a love of books. My favorite book of all time is Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand and my not-so-guilty pleasure would easily be Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling. I have a single tattoo that I gave about .5 seconds of thought to. I love it and am ready for #2. I come from a military family so wanderlust is in my blood. There are two main men in my life: only one of them is human. I have had a heart for children and missions for as long as I can remember. I dream of traveling the world, experiencing different cultures, meeting new people, and serving others where I can. If you want to know anymore please feel free to contact me!

My personal favorites