CHAPTER FOUR: ARTIFACTS AS STORY
“leaving my
job, family,
and friends.”
I took a big risk and headed to Quito, Ecuador for 3
months to work with a conservation photographer,
leaving my job, family, and friends. As a naturally
anxious person, this was a struggle being outside
my comfort zone for so long. Some days I would
be crushed by being homesick and highly anxious.
Now I look back and just remember the amazing
opportunities the trip brought me. That’s why
I’ve held on to this rock from Cotopaxi volcano.
It was from one of my favourite days going on a
mountain biking trip on Cotopaxi. I’ve always been
so interested in volcanoes and getting to ride on top
of the most active volcano in the world was riveting,
and brought me so much joy. It was one of the most
enjoyable days of my life to date.
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