A weekend of raising up beauty: initial thoughts & reflections

I could think and reflect for hours, weeks and months about what this experience was, how it impacted me, and how it’s truly life-changing in all the best ways. And though i’m sure i’ll be thinking, reflecting, and reminiscing non stop for quite a while, I wanted to share some initial thoughts and takeaways about what this weekend was to me, and how it truly has changed not only what my business can become, but who I can become, already.

When people ask me about Beautycounter, or often times when I bring it up in conversation, the initial reaction is always: “oh is that one of THOSE companies?” 🙄 I think anyone in network marketing can relate when I say that hearing that comment can get so. damn. old. What I want to counter with & ask is, what do you really NOT like about “those types of companies???”

I’m so damn proud of the work I do. I’m so damn proud to represent a brand like Beautycounter. Its mission, its drive, its ultimate purpose to get cleaner, safer products into the hands of all. Because we shouldn’t have to compromise on our health when it comes to what we’re putting on our bodies. And as I sat back this weekend and reflected, I think I’ve somewhat re defined my “why.” I will always do beautycounter because the mission and the purpose of this company is near and dear to my heart, as someone who has dealt with environmental & chemical allergens and numerous health issues. This work will always be meaningful as someone who studied and is deeply passionate about environmental advocacy, access, responsible sourcing, and sustainability. It will always be meaningful to me, as someone who LOVES sharing, educating & inspiring others. However, something changed this weekend. As I listened to people talk about their why’s, I realized there’s truly one underlying reason I do beautycounter. Why I wholeheartedly push & share & educate, even throughout an accelerated masters, working with multiple freelance clients, a full time job, raising a puppy, a health coach training program - all while also trying to be a present and thoughtful daughter, sister, friend, and girlfriend all at the same time.

I do this for my future babies and family. I do this because I don’t ever want my future children to have to worry about the products they’re using, the health issues associated with using the wrong ones, and the worry, fear & anxiety that comes with living in a country that does nothing to protect our bodies; nothing to protect us from harmful chemicals, toxins and hormone disrupters that FILL our retail aisles; that FILL our beauty and personal care products.

Did you know that the average American women leaves the house with over 168 chemicals on her body daily??? Or that the FDA bans only 11 harmful ingredients while the European Union bans over 1300?? (Beautycounter bans over 2,800 and counting.)

This business and this passion of mine is also the very reason I’ll be working on a year long health coach certification training program starting next month. With the ultimate goal of helping others recognize what they’re putting into and onto their bodies. To lead a happier, healthier, safer life.

I attended this years annual Beautycounter LEAD conference in Charlotte NC, with my mentor and amazing friend Gabby. (everyone needs a gabby!!!) I really went in with zero expectations. After all, I do Beautycounter “for fun.” I do it for “extra money.” When people ask me about Beautycounter, these are always my answers. I don’t often share my why. I so often hide behind this invisible wall of fear. Fear that people will think i’m weird or crazy for being in network marketing. Fear that people will wonder what i’m doing having numerous jobs and still being completely unsure of what I want to spend the rest of my life doing. However, one thing will always remain the same: I want to help people. I want to educate, inspire, and serve others. I want to share the knowledge I have to help others live cleaner, safer lives. And I want to keep learning so that I can keep sharing and inspiring & lifting others up. That’s what this weekend was all about.

Founder, Gregg Renfrew!!!

I am leaving Charlotte with not only a toolbox chalk-full of information, resources, and knowledge, but with the confidence, inspiration and motivation to continue sharing, educating & inspiring. And most of all, I’m leaving with the true and genuine understanding that now, I don’t have to be afraid. I don’t have to come up with excuses about why I do beautycounter. I don’t have to feel ashamed, ever, of the work I do. Though I’ve never been one to care a TON about what others think of me; I am only human. I am also what I like to call, a “baby adult.” And I really do not have it all figured out yet. These past couple of years; living through a global pandemic, addressing anxiety, panic & mental health issues I deal with - all of these things have tested me. I struggled, as did most. I still struggle. But one thing has changed - now, I give myself permission to be fully transparent; to share, inspire, and be completely raw and authentic about who I am and what I love. About what I struggle with, how I struggle with it, and how I’ve taken steps to give myself a toolbox that will enable me to move forward in all aspects of my life.

I was able to learn from women this weekend who have made Beautycounter their full time jobs; who work with beautycounter because of their own allergens, health issues, cancer stories, and more. I learned from inspiring leaders like Jay Shetty & Michelle Poler (if you’ve never heard of them, here’s your sign to follow them/learn about who they are! I ordered Michelle’s book during her session, shhh). They talked with us about using fear to propel us forward. How fear might equal obstacle. But how what follows is opportunity - and that’s the best thing that can happen to us. How instead of asking what’s the worst that could happen - to start asking “What’s the BEST that could happen?”

I thought this weekend would be all about growing my Beautycounter business. Did I think that would be awesome? Yes!! What I was missing though, was that this weekend was so much more than that. It was about truly discovering what makes me remarkable. It was about connection, storytelling, and learning. It was about lifting up people, and raising up beauty. It was full of unexpected moments, both individually and shared - and it was beautiful.

I’m so proud of the work I do. I love having multiple jobs, and I honestly love having no idea what I’ll do next. Over the past few years if I’ve learned anything about myself, it’s that my passion, curiosity and drive are three things that truly set me apart. They allow me to explore so many different paths. That started at a very young age with homeschooling, years of self exploratory dual enrollment courses; to two gap years and 2 online degrees, a flexible remote job I love, and a business I adore building - along with so many significant life moments like raising my own dog, meeting the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, and enjoying endless amazing moments with my family and friends. These 3 things (curiosity, drive & passion) have led me to my next step: becoming a certified health coach. I’m not exactly sure if I’ll ever “stick with one thing,” but I am sure of one thing: I will always continue to share what I’m passionate about wholeheartedly. Beautycounter has inspired me to stick with what I love doing, and to do it bravely, without any apologies.

I’ll be writing a series of posts about LEAD, beautycounter, low tox living, a “first look” at my first month in my IIN health coach program, and more over the next few weeks/months, but I want to end this post with a quote that resonated with me most this week:

“What if everything you are and what you’ve become is nothing compared to everything you’re about to be.”

Thanks for coming on this journey with me. Here’s to becoming everything we’re about to be. ✨🩷

xx

A

the next step

Because I always say i’m going to update the blog more — here goes!!

I don’t wanna be one of those people who says “life has been crazy!” 

But actually, life has been crazy — in all the best ways. I am in the final semester of my accelerated MBA program, and I’ll be done full time in May, with just one course left to take the month of June. I am amazed at how quickly this program flew by, and even more amazed I actually get to say I have my MBA this summer! I could not be more grateful I decided to choose this path post grad with my Bachelors in Environmental Studies. I’m currently working part time as a social media strategist, part time as a receptionist at a community college, and part time as a content curator for a small coffee company. I run my Beautycounter Biz on the side, and also recently picked up more freelance clients. I love staying busy.

I’ve always been somewhat of a “multipotentialite.” That’s not a brag for even a second — because in a lot of ways I think it comes with challenges.  Multipotentialite is a term coined by Emilie Wapnick to describe individuals with many interests and creative pursuits. We have many paths, and we pursue them all, either sequentially or simultaneously (or both). For more on that, watch Emily’s incredible Ted Talk. I think it sums up just about everything I’ve ever misunderstood about myself. 

Emilie Wapnick: Why some of us don't have one true calling | TED Talk

I’m 4 months into an incredible part time job as a social media strategist for a marketing and design agency. I work fully remote and create my own schedule. I am passionate about the work I do for clients, and always excited to take on something new at work — whether that be email campaigns, graphic design, PR work, different forms of marketing, or unique certifications to gain new knowledge and skills. I truly love my job, which is why I accepted a full time offer come May. I am thrilled to be a part of such a fun, motivated team of people — and I absolutely love that we never stop learning.

As I wrap up my MBA, continue to do freelance work, and prep to go full time at my current position in just a few weeks, I can’t help but wonder if my “multipotentialite” persona has started to define how I lead my life and continue to shape my future — and I’m totally okay with it.

the big news

Yesterday I made a decision to enroll in a year long health coach training program through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. My mom attended IIN when it was an in person program in NYC, back when I was just six years old. What she gained from the program changed my family, and though I didn’t know it at age six, altered the course of my future. Food played a pivotal role in my life from a young age. Organic, whole, local foods became the norm after my moms experience at IIN, and an emphasis on balance and the “90/10” (occasionally more like 80/20) lifestyle was what helped me to understand our relationship with food, health & general wellness, and how important it truly is. Integrative health and nutrition became a lifestyle, and one I’m forever thankful for. 

As a child I dealt with asthma and numerous allergies. As I grew up, and holistic & integrative health became a core part of our lifestyle as a family, we started seeing a chiropractor. Within a few months of regular visits, I was able to discontinue nebulizer treatments. I still go to the chiropractor monthly.

Food was always an interesting battle. As a child I dealt with numerous allergies. In middle and high school I cut out gluten, dairy, and refined sugars. I tried the autoimmune protocol “diet,” and attempted other nutritional changes in hopes of relieving all different symptoms I had been experiencing. All of these diet and lifestyle changes impacted me positively, and working with a functional medicine doctor changed my perspective on how we interact with food and how so often we don’t recognize the connections between our mental health and food. I didn’t end up sticking with any one “lifestyle” (I hate the word diet) specifically, but I’m grateful to have learned what I did about myself, my relationship with food, and my body. I am grateful I had the knowledge (& means) I did to create these changes and find what worked best for me during that time. Having the resources and ability to meet with holistic health coaches, nutritionists, and functional medicine doctors, has helped me get to the root of my symptoms. It’s helped me identify the relationship between the foods we eat & anxiety, the ways we move our bodies & stress, and more. It’s helped me pinpoint who I am as a person & what I need to live my life wholly & unapologetically.  

What works best for me is balance. Through my mom and through my own passion and interest for food, I’ve learned how powerful it truly is to have balance in the way we eat, the way we move, and the ways in which we go about our daily lives. I was briefly vegetarian, gluten free, dairy free, and refined sugar free (all at different times) & what I have found works best for me is a real, true to its core, balanced way of eating that includes ALL food groups. I switched out the processed bread for my Nannies homemade sourdough or locally baked Sourdough (but I also will 100% order chicken parm or a burger out to eat:). I eat dairy free ice cream at home because I enjoy it — but I will also have my dairy queen blizzards & Somerset ice cream because it makes me happy. I love making my coffee at home but I will 110% drink Dunks when I forget to make my own, or because sometimes you just crave that familiarity, you know? Balance. is. key. And indulging will forever be good for you. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

 My family has always placed an emphasis on buying local, shopping small, and indulging when we want to. For a few years we raised our own pigs and chickens for slaughter. At the time, I don’t think I recognized how truly incredible this was —  our animals lived a happy and healthy life on our own little farm, and then they became food for our family. We knew exactly where they came from (our backyard!!) and what they ate. After we stopped raising our own animals, we continued to purchase from food cooperatives and local farms to continue our support of buying local & shopping small. Knowing where our food came from was, and still is, key. 

At age 16, I got a job at a local juice bar. My job helped me learn more about the power of whole foods — and how different veggies, fruits & superfoods effect our bodies & provide us with nutrients so vital to our wellbeing. I was lucky enough to work a part time job through high school that I absolutely loved and was so passionate about. 

My homeschooling journey also led me to this decision. I have to say my favorite part about being homeschooled was the endless field trips. Homeschooling was all about soaking up situations, trying new things, and leaning into daily life experiences. The idea was that the world was our classroom & our science labs were our backyards. Though it sounds cliche, I don’t think there’s anything I’m more grateful for. The perks of homeschooling are endless — one of my favorites being that I was able to learn from so many moms — moms who were nurses, teachers, yoga instructors, business professionals, and more. For example, I started yoga classes in middle school, because a homeschooling mom was an instructor at a local studio. She taught a yoga class at our co-op, and I later attended her classes at the studio as well. Yoga is again a huge part of my life today. I was introduced to cooking classes by a mom who loved to cook, science classes by a mom who worked as a nurse, and more. I took theatre courses and nutrition classes at community college just because I wanted to. Homeschooling is the true definition of lifelong learning — and it’s a huge part of the reason I decided to enroll in Nutrition school at IIN — because I’m not ever going to be done learning. I am hugely passionate about Integrative health, wellness, and balanced living, so I’m choosing to nurture that passion — just like my mom (and every homeschooling mom out there:) would’ve told me to do. 

and that’s what got me here.

Food changes everything, but our health is determined by much more than just the food we eat. We also have to work to nourish the areas of our lives that feed our soul, like fostering positive relationships, having fulfilling careers, and finding joy and purpose in what we do. This is what integrative nutrition really is. It’s the integration of all dimensions of our well-being to create true health and happiness. And I can’t wait to dive further into how integrative nutrition plays a role in my life, and eventually help others find the answer to that question too.

I start school (again!) in September and couldn’t be more excited for this next step. Cheers to unleashing the wisdom and potential to nourish, heal and thrive in our own ways. 🤎

p.s. greens are good for you but forget to eat the chocolate cake :’)

Xo

Anna 

New Year’s resolutions: yes or no?

I know there are so many controversial feelings when it comes to New Year’s Resolutions. Some people (like me a few years ago), used to hate them. If you’re going to start something, why wait until January and use the new year as an excuse to procrastinate? June, July, August, March April — they’re all great months to begin tackling goals you’ve set for yourself. Though I still believe that growth is constant and goals should be created and worked on all throughout the year, I now have a bit of a different mindset. Maybe it’s changed as I’ve gotten older, or maybe it’s because I’ve learned to love the feeling of a new year beginning; to me that feels like growth in a whole new way — a time to reflect on the past (because yes, 2022 is now in the past?!), and to look towards an even brighter future. Though I can’t complain at all about my 2022 — I feel really lucky to have had the year that I did, I am even more eager to start this new chapter; the one where my educational journey comes to a close, and I take new steps into the full time career I’ve been working towards. The one where I continue on with the goals I set for myself in 2022, but also begin to tackle new goals and resolutions I’ve set for myself, to further my growth as an individual, sister, friend, girlfriend, daughter, and stranger. If living through a global pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we shouldn’t take anything for granted. And I think that’s something to reflect on as one year comes to a close, and a new one begins.

But why is it that so many people struggle with New Year’s Resolutions? According to the time management firm Franklin Covey, one third of resolutioners don’t make it past the end of January.

The reason being is that they’re just not choosing the right resolutions. And a resolution may be wrong for one of three main reasons:

• It’s a resolution created based on what someone else (or society) is telling you to change.

• It’s too vague.

• You don’t have a realistic plan for achieving your resolution.

Your goals should be SMART, which is an acronym that stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound. It may work for management, but it can also work in setting your personal resolutions, too.

Another problem with resolutions is that we make them so much more complex than they need to be. A lot of people think, “Well, I have a whole year so I’m going to attack and achieve this huge goal.” There’s nothing wrong with setting big goals for yourself, but I honestly think we put too much pressure on ourselves to change drastic parts of our life and routine in just 365 days, and that’s where New Year’s Resolutions get a bad wrap, or go terribly wrong. I wanted to share something that my mom shared on Facebook right before the new year. It resonated with me, as I tried to understand my back and forth feelings about New Year’s resolutions.

“Why do we start a new year, with promises to improve? Who began this tradition of never-ending pressure? I say, the end of a year should be filled with congratulation, for all we survived. And I say a new year should start with promises to be kinder to ourselves, to understand better just how much we bear, as humans on this exhausting treadmill of life. And if we are to promise more, let’s pledge to rest, before our bodies force us” (Donna Ashworth).

I think that I have finally come to a full understanding of my feelings surrounding New Year’s resolutions. I like to set them, but I also like to spend time reflecting on 2022 and the wild ride that it was. I like to look back at photos, talk about trips, and recognize my personal growth. I don’t like to throw 2022 away so quickly, and set myself resolutions that only focus on the person I want to be in the new year. I think there’s something to be said about taking time to ease into 2023, and be thankful for the growth experienced in the year prior & the memories made. I think the goals we set for ourselves should be achievable, and should be made to make us feel better, not worse. I also believe that working on the same goals you did in 2022 is more than okay. Someone once told me, instead of striving for perfection, strive for continued progress — you’ll be much happier with the person you become when you choose to let go of this idea of “perfect.”

---

Though I shared these thoughts in an Instagram post last week, I wanted to document them here too. And instead of listing out my new year’s resolutions (though I do have them!), I want to instead share some lessons I learned in 2022 — as I reflect on the year that I had.

1. It’s okay to not have it all figured out. It’s okay to change your mind a million times and still not know what’s next.

2. It’s healthier to let go of what’s not serving you than to keep trying at something that’s not bringing either joy, growth, or positivity to your life. Life is so short. I promise you will feel better if you quit the job, internship, etc. Holding onto it because you think it’s what you “need” to be doing will not bring you joy.

3. You don’t need to be the best at everything you do. The pressure we put on ourselves to excel in every aspect of our lives isn’t necessary. What you’re doing right now is enough.

4. Finding time for fun every single day will without a doubt increase your happiness level. While you’re at it — going outside and getting fresh air, no matter how cold it is, will boost your mood 10 times out of 10.

5. If they’re good ones, having 1-2 friends is more than enough — quality over quantity.

6. Social media only shows the highlights (!!!!!!!!!)

7. Your mom is always right + will have your back even if you’re wrong.

8. People will judge you no matter what you do, so you might as well do what you want.

9. Raising a puppy in your twenties will be the best decision you ever make.

10. The most significant memories of your life are in the everyday moments you overlook.

---

Though I’ve spent a lot of time in the last couple of weeks writing down my New Year’s Resolutions, I’ve also made a new habit out of reflecting on the last year and setting myself goals based on what I’ve seen myself achieve already. Where did I see growth? Where could improve? And of course, reminding myself along the way that if I’m promising to give more in the new year, to also allow myself rest, and give myself grace.

And my motivation going into the new year, as reminders to myself and to others:

• It costs $0 to be kind. It truly takes more time and energy to be mean than to be nice.

• If people don’t like what you’re doing, it literally does not matter. Allow yourself to care for a second (we’re all human), and then let it go. It’s your life, not theirs.

• Listening to actually understand people, rather than to just respond, makes the world of a difference in how you interact with others. Listen more.

Here’s to a happy and healthy new year, and one filled with lots (or zero) resolutions moving forward into 2023.

Xo,

A

going into the new year

Some thoughts as we enter the new year. Some goals, resolutions, feelings & emotions as we take steps into 2023.

the wildest ride

As we enter the new year, I’ve spent some time reflecting on what it means to be human in a world that has been drastically altered since a pandemic swept our country and entire world over the course of 2+ years. I’ve spent time reflecting on how my role as an employee, sister, friend, daughter, girlfriend, and person has changed. I’ve thought about just how much I have truly changed in the last 3 years. No one can say they had any idea what was coming our way in 2020. All I know is that I am endlessly thankful I was able to travel the world for a year prior to it completely shutting down, and I’m even more grateful that my family (though the majority did get COVID) were all safe and healthy throughout this scary period of time. Though it may have been one of the toughest years, it also catapulted me into some of the most immense growth periods of my young adult life. I entered into the unknown that was online pandemic-college. I planned to spend one semester at home while covid “blew over,” and two years later finished my degree from my home — never knowing my entire collegiate experience would have happened from my kitchen table. I adjusted well, as the girl who was homeschooled for 10 years. I knew the drill. I adjusted quickly to remote learning, and actually learned to love it. I watched scientific documentaries about environmental policy and change from my bed, I zoomed into labs from my kitchen table and dissected animals (much to my moms dismay), on my desk. I grew close to certain Professors even having never met them in person, and I learned to appreciate how flexible and adaptable human beings truly are. Though this period of time was full of unknowns, and the world literally revolved in fear, I began to appreciate things like lockdown with my family — as it gave us time to just slow down. We made tiktoks daily, worked out and made time for self care, and just enjoyed not living in chaos. I graduated with my Bachelors degree this year, bought a puppy, started graduate school for my M.B.A., and got on planes to Turks and Caicos, Philly, Mexico, then to Germany for a few amazing trips with some of the best people. I still managed to create space for my passion for travel even during a global pandemic. I made time and space for concerts, trips to the Cape, nights into Boston, and family vacations up North with my family. We managed to celebrate all holidays together, counting our blessings as we steered clear of infection for the time being. We celebrated milestones, birthdays, new jobs and more — all while making sure to be thankful for what we did have, during the weirdest and scariest time of our lives.

2021 threw us for a loop as we tirelessly worked to manage living throughout another year plagued with COVID. It was also the year we took a spontaneous trip to Iceland and explored some of the most incredible spots in a country so strikingly beautiful. We hiked in New Hampshire and stayed a night in a hut at the peak, we celebrated family reunions up North, and we spent most every weekend on the Cape, soaking up the sun, sand, and limited time we had left of summer. I made trips to Alaska and Cancun in 2021 — masking up and braving airports, planes, and public transportation to enjoy two incredible trips despite COVID and the state of our world. We celebrated small wins — like going out to eat again, and finally spending more time with friends. We made the annual trip to New Hampshire with family and brought the Christmas festivities into the barn to avoid small spaces and the fear of COVID. Through all of it, we managed to make the most of what we had, which was plenty. Leo and I crossed state borders (I think illegal at the time????) to spend time in Lincoln NH in an attempt to create some sort of normalcy.

2020-2022 were the weirdest years of my life. But honestly, they were also some of the best. Though I know its widely unpopular, my genuine opinion is that COVID actually helped us in some ways. Suddenly large chunks of the day were no longer taken up by commuting or nonessential meetings. With the shutdown came a sense of flexibility that was not there before. The pandemic created a world in which people slowed down for a bit. It also created a sense of loneliness, loss, and fear — but it also connected us in so many ways. I choose to look back on it and remember it for those reasons. I reflect on '“lockdown” and sometimes truly miss the pace of that time, when ‘just being’ was the norm, and “being productive” wasn’t measured by how much you were working, how many classes you were taking, etc. but by how many new recipes you made that week, or how many new tiktok dances you attempted. The newfound slow pace may not always be easy to maintain, but continuing to follow that pace I think will lead to a greater appreciation for life and a greater level of happiness. Covid really did teach us the importance of slowing down and appreciating the little things; let’s hope it’s here to stay.

beautycounter biz

Back in August, I took a leap and joined Beautycounter, a clean beauty company I love and adore, as an Independent consultant. I joined because I purchased so much from the company and figured the 25% discount would be worth it. When I finally got over the self-consciousness and insecurity of “trying to be an influencer", (because yes, I do want to be an influencer), I started sharing more about Beautycounter, their list of questionable, toxic ingredients that are never included in any of their formulas or packaging, their B-Corp Certification, and their advocacy regarding clean beauty laws and legislation on social media. I became really passionate about advocating for a company that shared my values, and one that had supported me so much through journey in making switches to cleaner and safer products. Through Beautycounter, I also realized my passion for using social and new media to create positive change and it pushed me to show up authentically. I have started utilizing my platforms to highlight what’s important in my life: family, my relationship, travel, my puppy, clean beauty, social justice, daily life, and more.

it’s ok to change your mind (1, 2, 3, or a million times)

A few months ago, I started an internship in Environmental Consulting. I’m not going to pretend I gave it a lot of time or attempted to stick it out even though I didn’t enjoy it — because I didn’t. I instead followed my gut intuition, which was telling me this wasn’t it for me, and I quit. For a few days I felt bad about myself. I felt like I had failed, and I felt like people would judge me. Finally, I chose to let that all go, and remember the fact that as long as I was happy, it didn’t matter. I had previously spent so much time worrying about what other people would think of me, that I didn’t do certain things for that I really wanted to do. At 22, I can finally say I have (mostly) thrown that worry away, and I am shameless as ever about wanting to be an influencer, and just doing what I want to be doing. Though sometimes I feel stupid, still notice things like how many followers I have, etc. I have started to build a better mindset around it: I will show up exactly how I am, and people can either take it or leave it. A few months ago, I started an internship in social media and marketing strategy with a B-Corp certified coffee company called Deans Beans, and have more recently landed a part time position as a Social Media Content Curator and Accounts Manager at Birdhouse Marketing & Design, which will begin come January. I am passionate about leveraging new media to creatively and effectively market companies and showcase their mission, vision, and goals.

thankful

Combining my passions for arts and creativity with business as a vehicle for positive change, I feel I have finally found my niche, and what makes me tick. I’m eager and excited for the next chapter in this work. Come May, I will hopefully be working full time in this field, as my graduate program comes to a close. As I reflect on 2022, but also all the way back to 2020, I’m thankful for a lot. I have started to make a habit out of writing down things I’m grateful for each night. Even if the day wasn’t the best or wasn’t my favorite, I can always find at least 5-10 things I’m thankful for at the end of each day. Being present and thankful for each moment is something I am committing myself to in the New Year. Though it’s also been a “resolution” in past years, I’m giving myself a fresh start to keep actively working at this. I't’s so easy to get caught up in social media, doom scrolling, and comparisons. I find myself doing it far too often, and I have been consciously focusing on catching myself when I do, pivoting my mind away from others’ lives and timelines, and instead focusing on my own.

I hope to conquer new goals in my Beautycounter business in 2023, make strides in my education and knowledge regarding marketing and creative design by taking master classes and refining my skills, and take time for myself as I enter the workforce and finish my journey in school (at least for the time being:).

I have goals of getting involved in theatre again, beginning to learn a new language, and making time to read more. I want to continue advocating for what’s important to me, and continue not giving a fuck what other people think. Because though cliche, the saying is really so true: people will judge you no matter what you do, so you might as well do what you want.

Though I haven’t previously been a fan of new year’s resolutions (if you wanna start something, today is as good a day as any:) I am genuinely advocating for goals and resolutions for the new year. Let 2023 be a new chapter, and set yourself some goals you want to achieve this coming year. (and let this serve as a reminder that it’s totally ok to have some or all of the same goals as you did in 2022). Baby steps are steps.

x,

a

clean beauty, chemical toxins + our unregulated cosmetics industry

I’ve been wanting to write about this for quite a while now, and have finally managed to find the time to sit down and put my thoughts together. Firstly, I want to preface this post by saying that I am not an industry expert, nor an expert in cosmetics or chemical toxins. I have simply dedicated a lot of time to learning more about clean beauty, and our current beauty industry standards.

Even before starting as a consultant with Beautycounter, I spent a lot of time learning about the ingredients in my products. As someone who dealt with numerous unknown rashes, spent too many hours at the doctors office, the dermatologist, and more — I needed answers. After receiving allergy patch testing from Mass General Hospital in Boston, I found many of my answers. I received a laundry list of chemicals and product ingredients I was allergic to. Not only did I learn that these were common allergens for many, but many of them were actually known chemical toxins and ingredients that NEVER should be included in products in the first place. I was also told to stop using a normal razor, and to purchase a nickel-free one instead, because I had developed a nickel allergy. According to research reviewed and published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, “Depending on the dose and length of exposure, as an immunotoxic and carcinogen agent, Ni can cause a variety of health effects” (Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2020). I questioned why our razors were being produced using nickel in the first place, if so many people had such horrible reactions to the heavy metal. I have since then learned a lot about Nickel and the effects it can have on human health. (In case you’re looking for a nickel-free razor, Billie is a great brand:)

When I was little, I dealt with pretty bad asthma as well. After my mom started taking us to the chiropractor and threw out all of our Yankee candles and fragranced products, my asthma just about disappeared. I’ve alway known I'm sensitive to common chemicals and fragrances. As a teenager, I just pretended I wasn’t: because that’s so much easier, right? Not really. I paid the price when using products like Bath and Body Works body mists, scented lotions, etc. and burning smelly scented candles in my room on a daily basis. I paid the price, because I constantly dealt with horrible headaches, bad asthma, itchy rashes; you name it. These products were literally harming my health, and I turned a blind eye because I just wanted to be able to use what everyone else was using.

When I graduated high school, I started to pay more attention to what I was eating. I did a candida diet for a few months where I cut out all sugars, I tried the Autoimmune Protocol Diet, where I cut out nightshade vegetables and starches that increased inflammation. I was gluten-free, dairy-free, etc. I became fascinated by how and why I felt the way I did. The answers were in the food I was consuming, and the products I was using. Though I no longer follow any strict food diet or regimen, I do pay attention to the ingredients included in the foods I eat, and lead a balanced lifestyle when it comes to diet. I know what makes me feel good, and what doesn’t.

However, when it came to products, I became fascinated by WHY so many ingredients in our products were not regulated by the FDA. Chemicals and contaminants linked to cancer can be found in food, water and many other everyday products. However, no category of consumer products is subject to less government oversight than cosmetics and other personal care products. Although many of the chemicals and contaminants in cosmetics and personal care products may pose limited risk, exposure to some has been linked to serious health problems, including cancer.

Since 2009, 595 cosmetics manufacturers have reported using 88 chemicals, in more than 73,000 products, that have been linked to cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. As consumers, we use a wide variety of cosmetics and personal care products. Few consumer products contribute as many chemical exposures as cosmetics and other personal care products. “Each day, American women use an average of 12 personal care products that contain 168 different chemicals. Men use an average of six personal care products that contain 85 different chemicals. Many of these products are applied directly to the skin, the body’s largest organ, where ingredients can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream” (Faber, EWG, 2020).

A recent story some may be familiar with, is the Class Action complaint recently filed in New York against Sephora USA Inc. The complaint alleges “that a number of cosmetic products tagged “Clean at Sephora” are loaded with synthetic ingredients, including some known to cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.” More specifically, the case contends that “a significant percentage” of the items bearing the “Clean at Sephora” seal contain ingredients “inconsistent with how consumers understand” the term “clean.” The lawsuit says that as a result of Sephora’s “false and misleading representations,” certain items are more costly than similar products that are “represented in a non-misleading way.” The suit points out that Sephora’s Saie Mascara 101 contains “numerous synthetic ingredients, several of which have been reported to cause possible harms.” Per the complaint, the mascara’s predominant ingredient is a compound of glycerol and stearic acid that’s manufactured via a chemical reaction and sourced as a bioproduct in biodiesel production.

So what do I do if no one is regulating my products? The short answer is, right now it’s up to us. Today more than ever, we need to be conscious consumers, especially when it comes to the products we’re putting on our skin, and the food we’re putting in our body.

The reason I love Beautycounter and am passionate about advocating for them is because they are completely transparent when it comes to their ingredients. Any beauty brand can call themselves clean— but can they back it up? Beautycounter can, and it all starts with safety. Since their launch in 2013, Beautycounter has set the highest bar for safety in the beauty industry. The company’s Never List is chalk full of 1,800 questionable ingredients that are never used in the formulation of BC products. BC also goes above and beyond to screen and assess every single ingredient they use against their strict safety standards. “What’s left is an ever-evolving toolbox of clean, sustainable ingredients that we use to create innovative formulas that deliver results—safely.” I am so passionate about my work with Beautycounter because I know that they are a brand that can be trusted. I also know they are one of very few beauty brands that actually advocates for cosmetic industry legislation. Beautycounter has spent more than 10 years advocating for legislation that would allow the FDA to: screen ingredients for safety; require more transparency from brands; clearly define widely used but under-regulated terms such as natural; and recall products that harm consumers. I can trust that Beautycounter products are not harmful to my body, I won’t be breaking out in rashes, and I won’t be asthmatic from chemical fragrances included in the products: and for that, I am thankful.

Once I started learning more about clean beauty & clean food, I ditched the Bath and Body Works. Now I walk by B&BW stores when shopping and cringe thinking of when I used to spray the chemical, fragranced, toxic mist all over my body. I am thankful for the awareness being a curious individual and becoming a consultant has brought me, and I am eager to keep getting cleaner and safer beauty into the hands of more people.

If you’re interested in making the switch to safer beauty or cosmetic products, please reach out or follow me on Instagram, where I share lots on Beautycounter as a whole!

And remember: supporting companies that are truly working to maximize transparency will keep them up and running to continue fighting a battle we shouldn’t have to fight, but unfortunately do. Consumers deserve federally regulated, health-protective safety standards when it comes to the products they are using.

References:

EWG source

BEAUTYCOUNTER

NICKEL

2022 so far

It’s been way too long since I’ve updated the blog. We’re now more than halfway through 2022, and time is just flying by. Today is gray and gloomy and I’m writing this from the Massasoit Academic Resource Center Reception desk (we love being able to multitask at work;).

I’m not exactly sure where to begin, but I hope to look back on this blog someday and be happy I decided to keep up to date with these little life updates. Backing up to the very beginning of 2022, (another month full of COVID, but a bit more normalcy nonetheless):

january

I spent a week in Turks & Caicos where I met my best friend Sophie for a week of relaxation & SUN. Turks was the most beautiful country: bright white sand, perfect weather, crystal clear water, and the kindest people. We had so much fun, AND we didn’t get COVID — even leaving the US right after finding out my sister, and Sophie’s friend from home, tested positive.

Mid-January was spent doing all the things I love: went to a scrapbooking weekend with Nannie, Mom, and my sister, Liv in the city. We celebrated Nannie’s 70th and scrapbooked all night long, for two nights. Went to the theatre in Providence with mom and dad and saw an amazing show the following weekend. Submitted my enrollment deposit for graduate school (!!!!). We got a huge snowstorm at the end of the month — over 3 feet!!!! So we spent the remainder of January playing in the snow :)

february

In February I spent a lovely Valentine’s day in the city with Leo, did the ice bumper boats with Nannie and Papa and the fam in RI, celebrated mom’s 50th, AND we took the annual trip to NH with the entire Botelho Family and all the bfs and gfs (photos above!!!) We spent the weekend hiking, ice-fishing, playing games, and hanging out. All the boys brought water guns and spent the weekend shooting all of us :~) Other fun things in February included the Celtics game with dad, paint night in Foxboro, and the Museum of Science with the fam. We got so much snow in February, and enjoyed it all. March was a blur.

april

In April we saw the Script play in Boston with the Botelhos, we celebrated Easter late because mom and dad ditched us for Jamaica, and I met Sophie in Philadelphia for a girls weekend. We flew separately and met at the airport. We stayed at the cutest boutique hotel in the city with a rooftop deck and bar and had so much fun just being in a new place. We were across the street from the most amazing bagel place, that we of course frequented daily :) We somehow managed to also do a week of school (thanks to online learning:), and spent a couple of hours in a cute coffee shop getting homework done. We were within walking distance of all the coolest restaurants, shops, and bars — and spent so much time just walking! We went to a Phillies game, explored downtown, ate at fancy restaurants, and of course saw the Liberty Bell & the Rocky Steps. Definitely was a trip to remember. (And we made it home without COVID yet AGAIN, back home to both our moms who also tested positive right before we left:)

may

May was FULL of exciting things: I finished my yearlong internship with Manomet’s U360 Business Sustainability Program and competed as a finalist in the Annual Capstone Competition, where I presented my sustainable business plan to a panel of judges. I placed third runner-up in the competition and enjoyed every minute of it. At the same time, I said goodbye to the most amazing year-long experience interning for Manomet and set my sights on graduation. Mid-may, I received my honors cords at the most beautiful Graduating Honors Ceremony, where I presented my Capstone research, and met (in person!!!!) some of my favorite Professors. On May 21st, I graduated with my B.A. in Environmental Studies from Lesley University. My graduation was at the Leaderbank Pavillion in the Seaport. It was a HOT day and I knew absolutely no one (thanks COVID for a 2-yr college experience online) — but I did it and am so glad I did. I spent time afterward with my entire family, grandparents, and boyfriend :) I started spending more weekdays and weekends in Falmouth at the beach, soaking up the nice weather.

june

June was BUSY. Mostly all my free time was spent down the Cape. I saw Bon Iver in concert with my family at Bold Point Park in RI, The Lumineers and CAAMP in Mansfield with Dad and Liv, shopped with Liv and my mom for the Cape house (because renovations were finally done!!!!!!), and I went to visit a litter of puppies as I started to consider buying one of my own! We celebrated Ray’s high school graduation and my college graduation in June, and also Ray’s Eagle Scout award the same weekend :) He finished his Eagle project, and we celebrated him earning his Eagle rank with two other friends in his troop. The ceremony was amazing and we were all so proud of him! I started a 6-week beginner pottery class on my own and learned the basics of throwing, hand building, glazing, and more. I made my first wheel-thrown bowls, a hand-built mug, and some basic plates.

july

On the 1st of July Leo and I brought home our baby Koda! We bought an 8-week-old German Shepherd pup after only a few weeks of consideration:) She’s now 4 months old and we love her more than anything. Koda spent her first weekend with us at the Cape, celebrating the 4th of July. She didn’t mind the fireworks, the sand, or the crowds of people, and she adjusted so quickly to her new life with us. She’s now best friends with Star, our 4-yr old lab — and she definitely thinks she’s the queen of the house. She loves car rides, eating my socks and ICE, biting our toes, and playing with her SURPLUS of toys. The weekend following, Leo and I went on a trip with friends to Newport and explored Block Island for a day. I started graduate school and spent each week buckling down on making time for Accounting & Business Models homework. I finally got into a good groove with that. We spent the following weeks doing beach days, paddleboarding, selling mom’s soaps and honey at an Artisan Fair on the New Silver Beach tennis courts, seeing Keith Urban, playing with the new pup, and planning Grampa’s Surprise 80th birthday party. At the end of the month, we surprised Grampa with the best 80th birthday party. He had no clue, and the whole family came to celebrate him :)

august

This month I signed up for a second round of pottery, this time with Nannie and Mom. Joining independent studio allowed me to make my own creations, including more mugs, a dog bowl for Koda, and some trays. Sophie visited for a week at the beginning of the month, and we spent time exploring ALL over. We started in Falmouth and spent the following day in Provincetown, where we got matching tattoos, and explored downtown, the beaches, and the shops. The next day we drove to Olde Mystick, CT, and shopped, saw Mystic Pizza, visited a winery, and finally made the troupe back home. We took Koda to puppy kindergarten (her second week!), went to a Patriots pre-game, and spent the following days in Plymouth and the Cape. Finally, the dreaded Friday came, and I drove Sophie to the airport, where we said our “see you later’s,” knowing we’d plan some amazing trip soon enough :)

The rest of August has included taking Koda to puppy kindergarten each week with dad, working through the final weeks of my first semester of courses (one semester down a week from today!), soaking up the sun at the beach, a trip to Sandyneck (Koda’s first beach day!), riding the bike path through Falmouth, and finally — dropping Ray off for bootcamp orientation at Mass Maritime. He left this past weekend, and we won’t hear from him for 2 weeks! We’re already all looking forward to picking him up on the 2nd and enjoying Labor Day weekend on the Cape.

This year has been a blur and has already gone too fast. But, there are so many things to look forward to this fall!

I turn 22 next week and begin my new internship with a global consulting firm called Sustainserv on the 13th. The following week I leave for Germany for one week, with my dad, Liv, and Grampa — Oktoberfest for his 80th birthday! In October we’re walking 13.1 miles in the Jimmy Fund Walk, and I leave for Cancun with Leo for another week. I’ll continue on with 5 more accelerated MBA courses and somehow fit in all that homework while traveling :-) I’m feeling so lucky I have so many great things to look forward to with summer coming to a close. School is hard, owning a puppy is like a full-time job, and I’m so sad summer is winding down — but I can’t wait for what’s ahead.

xo
a

lacey, washington

This week!!

Firstly, we arrived in Lacey after a 15 hour bus ride—one of our longest yet. I spent the ride really excited to start my admissions internship in this new city. Along with this, I’d also be hosted by my mom and Ray! This week, they were visiting and renting a house on a lake nearby our venue, so that we could spend some time together. I was so excited to have a little piece of home with me this week. Our beneficiary this week is the Kiwanis Club.

On the 26th, we went to Lakes High School, for admissions work. My first week as an admissions intern, I led workshops and the “take a stand” activity in classrooms, learning about prevalent issues in the community and within the school. So many students came out of their bubbles and expressed their opinions on the topics we discussed. Seeing them talk about these things with so much passion was the most beautiful thing. Some classes are harder to inspire than others, but even starting small conversations goes a long way. It was a really incredible thing to experience. We spent the week at Lakes High School, focusing on civility and the ways students interact with each other. We were told the school had issues with violence, general drama, and online bullying, like most schools in the US. We were partnered with Mr. Wilson, an UWP alum and a teacher at the school. He was so passionate about UWP’s work and mission, and was so thrilled to see it incorporated into his classroom.

This week, I took Wednesday off to spend time with my mom and Ray. We went to see the Seattle Space Needle at night, which was so beautiful. I’d always wanted to see the space needle, so this was such a fun moment. We did an underground walking tour of the city, spent some time at Pikes Fish Market, and explored other areas of such a fun city. It was really such an awesome day.

I completed a total of six interviews this week with amazing and inspiring young people that want to travel and be a part of this life-changing program. It was so empowering and hypes me up every time. Seeing young people so passionate about global issues and giving them a platform to use their voice never ever gets old. Interviewing and knowing I could be that person that introduced them to an opportunity of a lifetime is the coolest feeling in the world.

The end of the week was spent performing at a beautiful venue, working on team-building as an admissions team, and spending time with my family. Sophie stayed with us the final two nights, which was a blast. We got pedicures before Mexico, and spent our final nights with my mom and ray at the cutest little house on a lake. I truly loved every minute of this week.

modesto, california

Modesto.

This week was an interesting one. Our cast was split in half, and we experienced a “split city” week in UWP. I was nervous about this but excited nonetheless. Half our cast would be hosted in Sacramento, about 2 hours north of Modesto, and we would bus to them for a show at the end of the week, and vice versa. Three of my closest friends ended up in Sacramento, but I still had a few with me for this week. I was hosted with three girls again this week: two from the US and one from Bermuda. It was a random group for sure, but I was looking forward to our week in Cali. Our bus ride from Vegas to Modesto was 11 hours. Through green hills and the most incredible landscapes, 11 hours on the road. We were greeted in Modesto by the kindest host family - a mother and daughter, Lynn and Alison. I loved this little city.

This week, my community action was split up into a few different areas. I spent some time in schools, working on admissions, and pitching the Up With People program to high school students. We spent time at lunch interviewing, and classroom time conducting workshops and games. Another day this week was spent at Modesto Mission: a homeless shelter in Modesto. We were able to learn more about the shelter’s mission and goals for participants of the program. Modesto Mission’s program involves 18 months of devotion meetings, bible study, interview techniques, and lessons on how to get back on your feet. The mission was incredibly inspiring, and the people we met were extremely kind. We spent time serving food, organizing some closets full of hygiene supplies, and chatting with the people there.

This week I became an admissions intern! I was thrilled because this meant I could spend time working on admissions for four weeks in Mexico. This news really made my entire week. This week, our beneficiary is the Boys and Girls Club of Modesto. We performed at the Gallo Center for the Arts, one of the most beautiful show venues in the state. Some famous performers have come through this venue in previous years. We reunited with the other half of our cast for show day as well :)

To finish off the week, my roommates and I spent Sunday in San Francisco with our host family. We rode the trolley, saw the Golden Gate Bridge, went on a ferry boat tour, and ate clam chowder out of bread bowls on the pier. Seeing this incredible city for a second time was truly a gift. We connected with another cast member’s host family while in San Fran, and were able to spend time exploring with them as well. This week, I was reminded of how lucky I am to see so many different parts of my country. The west coast is so different than back home. I had the most amazing week with my roommates, Lynn & Alison. This week will definitely be one to remember!

las vegas, nevada

VEGAS BABY

THIS WEEK. One of the best on tour, to date. After a long (and eventful) travel day from Grand Junction, all 100 of us, fully changed and dressed-to-impress (kinda:), unloaded our two busses and were greeted by a full-out marching band at Desert Oasis High School. It was such an energetic welcome, much needed after a ten hour bus ride. After lugging in our suitcases and getting settled before our host families arrived, I grabbed my allo card and was told I’d be hosted with three other girls, all from different countries, none of whom I knew very well at the time. Little did I know they would become some of my closest friends on tour that week :)

… HOST FAMILIES BEGAN ARRIVING …

Finally, it was about six o’clock, time for host pick up. Again, those feelings rushed back through - would I like them?! Would I get along well with my roommates? Four girls was a lot, I had only ever had one other roommate, or solo. Nonetheless, I was very excited. The “host codes” that week were Vegas-themed, so all host families arrived with big signs with their host-code written on it in some creative way. Ours was “Planet Hollywood.” We then spotted the sign and went to greet our new family. Our host mom, Jackie had on a Patriots sweatshirt and hat, and I was immediately thrilled. Seeing those little pieces of home every now and then was so comforting. Aaron and Jackie helped all four of us get our luggage, and we made our way back home, stopping on the way for dinner. We talked, got to know each other over dinner, and then drove back to their home. Aaron and Jackie had three lil dogs and kids who didn’t live at home. They showed us their daughter’s dance studio, separate from the house, where we would be staying for the week. We were so dang excited. A disco ball, a trampoline and hot tub right outside, and the kindest host parents we could’ve asked for. We’d been here maybe an hour and were already loving this week. People that make you feel at home are people to keep close by <3 The four of us sat in the hot tub for hours that night, just getting to know each other and soaking in the fact that we were in Vegasssss baby. I was so excited to have these three as my roomies.

TUESDAY

Today I helped with Admissions. It was my first time doing admissions, and I fell in love with it. Helping lead classroom workshops for high schoolers, leading an activity called “Take A Stand,” and opening up the space for these students to talk about important issues today was a powerful thing, and I loved every minute of it. I did my first interview with a student applying to the program. After our workshops at the school, the small group of us had the rest of the day to explore downtown Vegas. We got back to our facility and sat outside in the sun - enjoying this beautiful west coast weather. Blessed is an understatement.

THURSDAY

Thursday our host family let us have a full cast and staff party at their house. Not only did they allow over eighty people into their home, but they bought balloons, food and decorations for the night. It was such a fun night in their yard, swimming in their pool and eating hella good food. The whole cast loved our host family, and was so thankful for this night. Again - complete and utter selflessness - these people did this for the four of us and our entire program out of the goodness of their hearts. I was amazed and just insanely grateful.

FRI/SAT/SUN

Friday we were given the opportunity to visit a Cirque du Soleil rehearsal of Michael Jackson “One.” We watched performers rehearse for their show that night and were able to do a Q&A with them afterwards. After that amazing day, we went downtown to Fremont Street that night, all six of us and Jackie and Aaron’s son, JT. They gave us the full experience. We went into casinos and Carmen played (sucks being under 21!!), we watched street performers, got dinner, and walked around all night. It sounds so cliché, but I really felt so alive. I had just spent the last three, now almost four weeks with four different families, and five different roommates, in a different city each week. I was just so freakin happy. Exhausted and overwhelmed at times, yes - but so truly happy with my life. This week was a dream, and I owed it all to my incredible host family, my REAL FAMILY and of course my wonderful roomies.

Saturday morning, Aaron invited all four of us to skip our morning activities with the cast, and come talk about Up With People on his live radio talk show he hosted every Saturday morning. We got to see the studio, meet his coworkers, and promote what UWP is on the radio - it was such a cool experience. After we were done, Jackie drove us to the school to set up for our show that night. My dad, Liv and Nannie & Papa came to visit this weekend. They saw the show, met my host family (worlds colliding) and also got to meet Sophie’s family too! I was so happy to have everyone together in one place, experiencing this crazy new world. After the show, I went back to the hotel with my fam, and explored Vegas at night all over again with them:) We spent the next morning together before my dad and Liv dropped me back off for brunch and the rest of my final day with our host family. I hugged them goodbye with tears in my eyes - as much as I adored this life I was living, having them there and just feeling that piece of home was what I needed. The thought of not seeing them for another few months (though I was crazy lucky to have them visit every couple of months. Lmao mom). We spent the rest of the day exploring more of Vegas, eating really good food and seeing the city lit up late into the night. I was gonna miss this place, and these incredible people. I felt so comfortable here, and the week I had was full of firsts. One of my most memorable on tour :)

“GO PATS.”

So much love to Aaron, Jackie and JT for being some of the craziest, coolest and most genuine people I had the pleasure of getting to know during my year on the road. I miss you people so much!!

Next stop: Modesto, California

xx, Anna

grand junction, colorado

03/04/2019 - 03/11/2019

monday

travel day!!

On our 5 hour bus ride from Erie to Grand Junction, we stopped in Vail, one of the most quintessential, beautiful little towns I have ever seen. One of our cast member’s family owned the cutest pizza place in the village, so we made a stop for lunch. The views were breathtaking - exploring this little town for just a short hour was a gift.

ARRIVAL …

Third week on the road, and I am hosted alone. Nervous was an understatement. However, I was lucky. I got placed with the coolest, kindest and most welcoming family: Gabriela, Arb, and Emily. I had two “host dogs;” one of them was blind and the absolute sweetest little thing. I really felt at home this week. My host family greeted me with the warmest welcome, a fridge full of the best snacks, and told me I had my own Keurig in the basement. I was very content to say the least.

P.s. My host family had the cutest lil bird too! I was already so excited about this week, and what it would bring. I was looking forward to soaking up all of Colorado before I had to say goodbye to this incredible state.

wednesday

Wednesday was my first “CA” or Community action day that week. I spent the day volunteering with Mosaic, an organization that serves people with developmental disabilities. My group spent the day painting walls throughout the facility, and helping organize arts and craft supplies, games, etc. It was such a good day, and learning about what the organization is doing to help those in the community was incredible. We got to sit and talk with a few employees during our lunch, and they were so welcoming and thankful to have us there. Wednesday night I went to dinner with Emily and her friends, who were all equally as cool and welcoming as her :”) It’s funny because it didn’t feel strange in the least - sitting there with six people I had met only a few days earlier, talking like we had known each other for years. It was so damn cool.

thursday

My Thursday CA was working with Dan Smith Toy. We worked at the Kiwanis Club of Grand Junction, making wooden toys for little kids in hospitals. It was such a good feeling knowing you could be making some little kid’s new favorite toy, having never even met them before. The staff and facilitators were so kind and happy to have us there, and one of them was a hardcore Red Sox fan (lil piece of home:). My CA group this day was so good too - I had a lot of my closest friends there, which made it all the more fun. Spent the night at home with my host family, watching Harry Potter and playing endless rounds of Rockband. Something I wrote in my journal: "Feels like home. So easygoing, so comfortable. I feel really content here.”

friday

Grand Junction is a small town surrounded by mountains and cliffs. The views are incredible. but something we learned while here was that some kids often feel like there’s no life beyond those big cliffs. The city was leading in suicide rates - with the highest in all of Colorado. Hearing this was heartbreaking. We spent all week at a local high school doing workshops with the students there, offering them a different perspective. At the end of the week we performed for them. Being able to provide even a few kids with a little sliver of hope made me feel empowered, and reminded me why we continue to put up this show each week - to keep spreading a message that had grown so close to my heart in just a few short weeks.

sunday

Another beautiful host family day!! Spent the day driving up the Colorado National Monument, stopping at every lookout for photos of some of the most incredible views I’ve seen. A landmark I didn’t even know existed just graced the entire area, and was a treasure of Grand Junction and Colorado as a whole. It was magnificent. After our day out, we spent time back at home just hanging out, playing more Rockband, and making the best homemade bruschetta. I didn’t even sleep that night, I stayed up packing, on facetime with friends, and preparing for the long travel day ahead of us - all the way to Las Vegas. Again - goodbyes suck!! I had such a great week getting to know these people, their kind hearts, and their genuine goodness in opening their home to me for the week. We said our goodbyes, and after lots of hugs, we were off to Vegas.

To the Chivers family: thank you a million times for opening your home and hearts to me. I think about you all often, and love that we have social media to stay in touch. All my love <3 Thank you for being a massive part of my UWP experience.

Next stop: Las Vegas, Nevada.

xx, Anna

erie, colorado

02/25/2019 - 03/04/2019

Week TWO on the road! Spent the week getting to know another little town in a state I absolutely adore.

monday

Our bus ride from Greeley wasn’t crazy long, so we arrived in Erie early afternoon, same as last week. My CA was at our facility, and I spent the day helping with a program called “Passing Hats.” The woman who founded Passing Hats sat with us and showed us how to easily weave/knit beautiful hats that she would later deliver to hospitals for cancer patients. This CA was such a beautiful experience, and learning to weave this way was so much fun. You can clearly see, I was very proud of my finished product (as was Nannie when I sent her this photo!!:)

That night, as we all rushed to get our allocation cards, I almost burst with joy because next to “roommate” on my card, I saw my best friend’s name. I was already way too excited for this week. The two of us grabbed our things and eagerly awaited our new host family. Finally, we were greeted by the most welcoming and warm mom and daughter. Lucia and Emi came to pick Sophie and I up from the facility. Emi had made us the most beautiful sign, and was literally so excited to see us. It was the most adorable and warm-hearted greeting ever - I was already so excited to spend the week getting to know these people. We got home late and met Marco, our host dad, and Mati, our little host brother :”) We learned that Lucia had also traveled in Up With People at 19, and having her understand the experience, share her own, and tell us stories of her year on the road was incredible. Again - another amazing start to my second week on the road.

I wrote in my journal this week: humanity in its rarest and most beautiful form.

It really was something so unique. I wrote little things like this all over the pages of my journal. It’s like I couldn’t form a full paragraph of my thoughts, but every now and then I knew exactly what I wanted to say. This week - this was it.

tuesday

Woke up on Tuesday and ate the best breakfast with Emi and Mati before they left for school. Marco dropped Soph and I off at the facility, and we started the day. Today my CA was promotion, representing Up With People around the community, handing out flyers, putting up posters to advertise our shows, and talking to people about Up With People - who we were, why we were in Erie and what we were doing throughout the community that week.

Who would’ve known promo could involve so much sweat? Myself and a small group of others spent the day at the Erie Community Center, participating in a cardio bootcamp class and talking to those in the class about UWP at the same time :) Talk about multitasking. We promoted the show at the end of the class, and then made our way to another in line dancing. Our small group of five represented four countries that day. It’s crazy thinking about it, because at the time, I didn’t. I had become accustomed to hearing three different languages around me simultaneously, and this just seemed to be my norm now. Every now and then it would hit me, just exactly where I was, what I was doing, and the amazing people I was lucky enough to be surrounded by.

After our workout classes and a small booth at the center to promote the show, we packed up and drove the van around the city, hanging up posters and putting flyers in local coffee shops around town. We stopped in Fredrick, a tiny little town a little ways out from Erie, for coffee. It was like a ghost town, lost and almost abandoned-looking. We sat there drinking coffee talking about how we felt like we were in a movie.

WEDNESDAY

Sitting here trying to understand what the heck I wrote in my journal - my handwriting at 12am clearly didn’t do me any favors. But Wednesday we had three shows - in one day. Wow. Our host mom Lucia came to the first school show (6am wake up came earlyyyyy that morning), with her kindergarten class. After that one we did it again. Ate Chick-fil-A for dinner (bless our Promotion Reps that week:), and then did it all over again.

Something I wrote in my journal after our three show day:

Performing for those kids today was a reminder of why I’m here. There’s no feeling like it. My heart is so full.

FRIDAY

Friday was a much-needed rest day for all one-hundred of us. We spent the day doing internal cast workshops on goal setting, self-reflection and wellness. One of our cast members from Canada led a little session on meditation and positive psychology. To have a full day of reflection and self-care was so beneficial and much-needed after four shows over the course of two days. That night, we ate out at the cutest restaurant in Longmont. All six of us talked, played games, and ate insanely good fries.

SATURDAY

Saturday was Gala day. The Up With People Gala happens every year around March. Our cast was performing a few numbers at Gala, as well as helping out with the auction, etc. The Gala took place at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Denver. It was the most beautiful venue, and ended up being an incredible night. It snowed like crazy that night, so bussing back was an interesting time, but entertaining nonetheless. We met Marco back at our normal facility in Greeley close to 3am. Bless this family for all of their late nights (or early mornings), picking us up, and driving us to and from everywhere, just out of the goodness of their hearts. This family was so special. Selfless, genuine, kindhearted, and so. much. fun. I wanted this week to last forever. I knew this goodbye would be hard, and I was just nowhere near ready.

SUNDAY

HOST FAMILY DAY. Slept in, and woke up to the best pancakes for breakfast. The weather was cold and snowy, so we spent the day bowling - all six of us, plus our neighbors who were also hosting two Uppies. Though I’m absolutely awful at bowling, the day was so relaxing, and a lot of fun. (Plus I think Emi was pretty happy about beating me:) After bowling, Marco drove all of us to Sweet Cow for ice cream - possibly the best ice cream I've had to date. We spent the night playing Twister, drawing pictures, watching movies, and beginning the long packing process to prepare for travel day the next morning.

Throughout the week, Lucia told us stories of her time in Up With People. All the heartwarming ones, the classic ones and of course the crazy ones. It was so cool hearing someone who had experienced it all, talk about it like it was yesterday. Every little detail, person mentioned, place visited - she remembered so well. Something Lucia told me that I’ll never forget (and that I’m feeling thankful I wrote down in my journal:) was “Enjoy your time as an Uppie. They say time flies and you won’t really listen now, but I promise you you’ll look back and wish that you did. Soak it all in while you can, and feel everything.” I carried this with me throughout my entire tour, and I thank my pretty awesome host mom for that.

A lesson I learned this week: There’s no such thing as strangers, only friends you haven’t met yet.

This incredible family hit this one home for me. I met these people on a Monday and was just learning their names, but by the following Sunday I had tears in my eyes as I hugged them all goodbye. Little did I know I would get to see all four of them four short months later!!

Next stop: Grand Junction, Colorado

xx, Anna

greeley, colorado

02/18/2019 - 02/25/2019

Welcome to this journey! As I sit at home (safe and healthy) during this crazy time, I decided to spend some time finally blogging out my mess of a journal from my year on the road. I told myself I would keep up with this while traveling (ha), and made it a good three weeks into staging before never doing it again. Seems like my messy little notes of each week and endless photos in my camera roll will suffice. I wanted to have these posts to look back on. I already worry about forgetting the small but significant details of my weeks on the road, and now seemed like a good time to start getting them all down :”)

Greeley, Colorado. My first week on tour with Up With People, and a memorable one at that. I had already spent five weeks in this beautiful state, one I had absolutely fallen in love with, and was preparing for another three. This was the first. Though only about an hour away from where we had just spent five weeks in chaotic staging, Greeley felt new, unexplored and exciting nonetheless. I was nervous about what this week would bring, but also just so thrilled to finally be on the road.

We arrived on busses to Greeley mid-afternoon, and immediately went right into what we call “CA” in Up With People, or “community action.” I spent the afternoon flyering for our shows, promoting UWP and exploring downtown Greeley. The ART hidden throughout this little city was incredible.

Monday night we received our “allocation cards,” identifying who our host family was, how many host siblings, pets, etc. we’d have, and where we were staying. We were also told who are roommate for that week would be. As I found my roommate - Leo from France, we waited nervously for our “host mom” to come pick us up. Nerve-wracking as it is, randomly meeting a stranger and then going home with them to live in their space for a week, it also gives you a massive amount of hope knowing people are inherently good. To selflessly open your home to strangers for a week, provide them with food, a place to sleep, and all sorts of accommodations is something very rare and extremely special. Our host “mom,” more like our host sister, was the perfect example of just that - absolute selflessness. She radiated kindness, and just seemed so real to me the moment I met her. I met Amanda over a year ago, and I can say today she has had a massive impact on my journey in this program and in life in general. I was so comforted knowing we’d get to be staying with her this first week. Also, a sidenote: Amanda is young, extremely fun, and hilarious. She lived with roommates who went to college nearby and her apartment was the cutest spot :) Leo and I felt so at home here, and I was so thankful for that.

This week was extremely hectic, as I, and all one hundred of us were adjusting to life on the road and what this would look like. I had promised myself I would journal each week, which of course, I didn’t find the time to actually do. After getting home each night, we spent time drinking wine with Amanda, making pancakes for dinner, or watching A Star is Born :”)

This week, my mom and Ray visited. They saw our first show on the road, and sat with me for hours just talking and catching up. Yes, I hadn’t even been gone two months - but that little piece of home made me crazy happy. I stayed with them overnight at their hotel, had breakfast and explored Greeley and downtown Boulder the next day. We went to some of the best spots including Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for the loveliest lunch. It felt so weird seeing them in this whole new world I had just become a part of. I was so content.

After my mom and Ray had left to make their way back home to Mass, I spent the rest of the week warming up to this whole UWP thing, and volunteering at local places around Greeley with my cast. My first CA day was at a Boys & Girls club. A group of about twenty of us spent time painting murals around the B&G facility. It was one of the best things I’ve been a part of, and also just so much fun. We spent all day laughing, joking around, getting to know each other, and painting some of the coolest murals for the kids that spent time there after school.

This week felt unreal. I had been preparing for this “trip” for almost a year, and now I was finally living it. It was something so special, and I was so thankful. I had to stop every once in awhile and remind myself what I had decided to do with my life for the next five months. Some days it felt like a crazy dream.

Over the next few days, I spent time on a few different sites volunteering with a small group of castmates. One of the projects I was a part of took place at Poudre River Trail. We spent time helping the park service employees clean out a barn, sort through old things kept there, and organize tools and equipment. It was a beautiful spot, and the weather was just as beautiful. At the end of this long day, my roommate and I were picked up by our host sis, and we made our way back home. We made 9pm pancakes and watched A Star is Born in the kitchen, stayed up late and just talked. This week literally felt like three sisters hanging out and I was so damn lucky for that. I just knew how much I was going to miss being with these two.

Sunday was host family day. Amanda took Leo and I to Horsetooth Reservoir in Larimer County. We went on a hike overlooking the most beautiful views, and had the absolute best weather for it too. We spent all day outside soaking up the sun and taking allllll the photos of the most incredible mountains. I had fallen in love with this state, and it seemed like every day it decided to amaze me just a little bit more. I was so excited for another two weeks in Colorado.

We made our way back home, and spent the rest of the night packing up our suitcases, and getting ready for travel day the next morning. We would have another short bus ride, only about an hour to our next destination, Erie. I experienced those same feelings all over again - what would my host family be like? Would I get along with my roommate?

What would the next week look like? I did know we had five shows over the next seven days. I was exhausted just thinking about it, but so dang excited too.

I was so sad saying goodbye to Amanda the next morning - it was the best first week I could’ve asked for. I tried to remind myself that was what every week would feel like: strangers on a Monday and family by the following Sunday. And the goodbyes just sucked. That’s really the only way to put it. But holy crap was I beyond grateful for the journey I had decided to take on for the next few months. I was grateful for my first on-the-road roomie, the friends I was making, the relationships I was forming with people I had met only a few months prior, or in my host sisters’ case, only a week prior. Over these seven days I truly recognized the powerful presence of hope, in a world where I used to think it was lacking. I saw someone open their home to a complete stranger out of the kindness of their heart. I saw young kids faces light up as they saw the murals we had so much fun painting for them. I had spent the last few weeks not knowing what the next day would bring - and I fell in love with that feeling. That isn’t to say I wasn’t still nervous about what the semester would bring. I was worried sick about missing my family too much, losing touch with friends from home, or being unprepared for what I chose to do. However, someone once told me, “Preparation is important. But we can’t always wait until we feel ready. Otherwise, we’ll just waste precious moments, and we won’t be living the life we imagined for ourselves.”

“I hope that under no circumstances, do you sacrifice your dreams, dignity, or self-respect for anyone. I hope you retain who you are and who you want to be become with ferocity. Take the time to be self-reflective, and always fight tooth and nail for things that are worth fighting for. Now, before you worry, don’t. Because we will absolutely keep in touch. Love from your host mom/sista/friend.”

Absolutely blessed for my first week on the road, and for all the people who were a part of it. This crazy program had just become my life, and it was only the beginning :”)

Next stop: Erie, Colorado.

xx, Anna

reflection / post-staging

As our staging weeks come to a close, I’m reflecting on how blessed I am to have been given the opportunity to travel with Up With People. I have been asked questions that prior to arriving in Denver, I had never been asked before. I have learned more about myself in these first 5 weeks than ever before. It’s scary in a way & it’s also incredibly eye-opening. I am challenged each and every day, and pushed outside of my comfort zone in the best ways possible. Through 5 weeks of laughter, tears, highs & lows - I am here. I am here to make an impact, create lasting bonds and connections with people from all over the world, learn from those around me, walk in somebody else’s shoes, and explore this beautiful world we live in. I feel like the luckiest girl alive to be doing what I’m doing.

To my first host family: thank you. Thank you for opening your home to Maëlle and I, and for sharing your beautiful city with us. Thank you for your kindness - and for encouraging me to try allllll the foods I probably wouldn’t have tried 5 weeks ago. I’ve learned so much from the both of you. We will miss you two (and stewart & shinyu!!)

To my first roomie: Maëlle!!!! Thank you for showing me what true compassion & genuine kindness is. You never fail to see the best in people & that is a beautiful thing - please never stop being you. Thank you for dealing with me and for loving peanut butter m&ms just as much as i do!! I will miss being your roomie but am so excited to be on the road with you.

Living this life is a gift. I couldn’t be more excited for the rest of this experience & what lies ahead.

xx

MLK marade & workshops

Monday, January 21, 2019

“Injustice everywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

Today we participated in the annual MLK Day Parade in Denver. We began at East High School & walked to City Park. When we arrived at City Park, we listened to many Denver community leaders speak about MLK, why they marched every year, and what they stand for. Each speech was empowering and inspiring.

“Today we pray with our legs.”

Many different leaders from all different backgrounds talked about why they chose to participate in the parade. One thing that stuck with me was this phrase: “Today we pray with our legs.” In order to create change, we must take action. We did this today, by marching alongside hundreds of people all uniting for one reason: to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. and what he stood for; what he fought for. Individual people, as well as groups and organizations around Denver, walked 5k in honor of MLK, and to advocate for everything he stood for.

Kat, Texas

WORKSHOPS

The second half of the day focused on workshops. We talked about the four curriculum units of Up With People.

1. cultural awareness

2. leadership & development

3. global citizenship

4. interpersonal communication

“Learning changes you. If you haven’t changed, you haven’t learned.”

inspiring a shared vision

• envision the future by imagining exciting and ennobling possibilities.

• elist others in a common vision by appealing to shared aspirations

“The UWP experience is potentially educational”

meaning, you only get out of it as much as you put into it.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING CYCLE

RELFECTION & GROWTH

1. what (observation of the experience)

2. gut (emotional reaction)

3. so what? (stop & think. get new insights.)

4. now what? (actions that can be taken)

NON VIOLENT COMMUNICATION (NVC)

Non Violent Communcation was the next topic we focused on in this workshop.

What is non violence?

The personal practice of being harmless to self and others under every condition.

NONVIOLENCE = PEACE

Negative peace = absence of violence, something undesirable stopped happening

Positive peace = peace filled with positive content. Serves the needs of the whole population.

We then learned a little bit about the 4 part NVC system. This method focuses on a method of connecting people in the natural state of compassion where no violence is present in the heart.

This workshop was eye opening & intriguing to me. I had never even heard of the concept of non violent communication. I gained knowledge of this new topic today, and it will definitely be a useful tool in the next coming months, as well as in the future.

Today was one of those days that took “you learn something new every day” to a whole new level. Since Tuesday the 15th, when I arrived in Denver, CO, I have learned so much more than ever before. Being surrounded by 98 people from 14 different countries, learning from and listening to others as they share their stories, cultures, passions & goals is an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world.

---

First Week in Denver, CO

01/15/19 - 01/19/19

ARRIVAL DAY!!

Arrived at Boston Logan Int. Airport on Tuesday the 15th. Said goodbye to both my parents, made it through security & boarded my plane. I was off to a completely new place, to meet complete strangers, who would soon become the people I spent the next 6 months with.

When I arrived in Denver I was feeling so many different emotions. Happy, scared, excited, eager, terrified. I eventually made it to the shuttle which I took to meet Up With People staff & other cast members. I was greeted with hugs from staff & different questions about where I was from, why I decided on UWP, etc. I was overwhelmed - in the best way possible.

Sophie, Wisconsin

After shuttling to the church, meeting SO many new people, and hanging out, we were picked up by our host families. My host family is amazing!!!! My roommate is also the best. Maëlle is from Belgium and is one of the funniest, kindest people I’ve met. My host family was a Navy family - and have so many incredible stories about where they’ve lived and what they’ve experienced.

Day one was exhausting. Went right to bed so we were ready for official day one with UWP.

THE NEXT THREE

The next three days were a whirlwind. They FLEW by. People weren’t kidding when they said soak in every moment, it’ll go by fast. Our first couple of days were composed of “workshops,” where we learned all about Up With People, it’s mission, how to live with host families, etc.

We were then split into “home teams,” a smaller group of people that we will continue to spend a lot of time with over the next 6 months.

My module group!!

Thursday was “Modules” day!!! I had heard a little bit about this day & was honestly overwhelmed. I’ve auditioned for shows before, yet there was something so new about this. I anticipated this day & made myself even more worried. What should I expect?? What if I fail?? So many things were rushing through my head. But by Thursday night - I was asking myself why I was so scared. Modules was so much fun. We sang in groups, danced, took some photos, and talked on camera.

Wednesday, Thursday & Friday FLEW by. We began learning the show & I began learning from others.

HOST FAMILY WEEKEND #1

Saturday!!

Slept in. Woke up to jazz music from my host family, and spent the morning relaxing, reading, and playing with my host family’s two dogs: Stewart & Shin Yu.

We drove to Garden of the Gods, a park in Colorado Springs: home to some of the most beautiful red rock formations overlooking the mountains.

Maëlle, from Belgium

Garden of the Gods, Colorado Springs

Explored Manitou Springs, shopped downtown & learned all about the old “hippie town.”

Manitou Springs

We then drove some more to Helen Hunt Falls, and saw some of the most beautiful views.

Headed to dinner at one of our host family’s favorite places to eat: the Laughing Lab.

The Laughing Lab, CO

Had the most beautiful host family day in Colorado Springs, exploring and seeing some of the coolest places around Denver :)

Prodigy, Denver CO

Week #1 in Denver was such an amazing experience. I am feeling so lucky & so blessed. The people I’ve just met within these first few days have huge hearts & so much kindness to give. I am so thankful and looking forward to the coming week!!!

xx

A gap year

After a long hiatus, I'm back again to update on some current, exciting things going on :)

A Gap Year. After long, stressful nights, hours spent on college applications and crying (happy and sad) tears over acceptance and rejection letters, I made the decision to take a "year on." I say a "year on" because I recently watched a TedTalk that delved into the pros of taking a gap year. The speaker explained the new concept of taking a year on, not off. Long story short, the phrase stuck with me, because I had never liked when people chose to say "I'm taking a year off." A year off of what? 

Many people will assume that a gap year means you simply aren't going to college, or that you have no idea what the hell you're doing. Others will nod and throw a half-hearted "Oh nice!" out when you answer the classic "Where are you going to college?" question. Some will look at you like you're crazy. However, so many others will be interested in your journey; in your choice to spend a year exploring, learning, and growing in immeasurable ways as a human being. Some people will tell you you're brave or courageous or adventurous, but honestly the way I look at is - if not now, when? College can wait - traveling the world really can't. I knew when I arrived home from Malawi, that I had officially caught the travel bug. I ached to go back, to go adventure somewhere new and unexplored. I wanted to learn about different cultures from my own, meet people who lived so differently from myself, and learn as much as possible. I came home with a completely new and adjusted mindset. I had learned more than I ever had through classes I've taken, books I've read, or tests I've taken. I learned more about myself than ever before, and I will forever be grateful for what my trip gave back to me, as an individual.

Since my travel bug never seemed to wear off, from January to June of 2019 I will be traveling with Up With People, an organization who's goal is to empower young people to be positive agents of change for a more hopeful, trusting and peaceful world - through music and action. I will live with host families in each country I visit, learning and experiencing their communities and cultures from a firsthand perspective. Throughout my six month journey I will complete community service projects, and perform for these communities each week. The money raised from ticket sales will go directly to chosen causes in each community. Up With People's mission is to:

1. "Increase understanding, respect and dignity for all – We seek to overcome bigotry and break down barriers of culture, race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation and economic disparity by using the power of music, education and service.

2. Foster engaged communities – We collaborate with each community we visit, working together to address local issues and form community connections that enhance compassion and trust.

3. Empower youth as positive change agents – We strive to help youth throughout the world become more aware of global and local issues, realize their individual capacity and inspire them to take personal action to make positive change.

4. Build an international network of global citizens – Wherever we travel or our music is heard, we seek to encourage and connect those who yearn for a more peaceful world, respect cultural differences, and act to build trust." ( Up With People )

My decision to take a gap year has already been one of the best decisions I've made, and I am beyond excited to see where it will take me. 

xx, anna

"Taking a year on, not off: Jean Fan at TEDxBergen" https://youtu.be/bTzViNACCt4 

Up With People upwithpeople.org

theatre for a change & Girls' Globe

When I arrived back home from Malawi in late July, I was overwhelmed by how I wanted to share what I had learned while being there. A few weeks later, I created the big picture. My blog was originally dedicated only to Concern Worldwide and sharing each day in Malawi. Later, I decided to join the Concern Leadership Network, and wanted to incorporate more about this. After that, I also wanted to share more about what I was doing with my newer (at the time), involvement with Theatre for a Change.

Theatre for a Change. Where do I even begin? I was amazed by the program the minute I heard that it was on our list of stops in Malawi. When we got to the school, I was speechless. TfaC's vision "...is to see vulnerable and marginalised groups empowered with the knowledge, awareness and skills to positively transform their lives, and the lives of others, at local, national and international levels." Their mission "...is to use uniquely active and participatory tools that promote sexual and reproductive health and gender rights." Their goal "... is to improve the sexual and reproductive health
of vulnerable and marginalised groups." Seeing the work a non-profit organization like TfaC was doing in these schools, was incredible. Actively involved in theatre from a young age, I am constantly reminded of how much an impact theatre and storytelling has on not only the individual, but on society as a whole. Seeing this in Malawi, was eye opening. 

I was able to watch while students expressed their thoughts, feelings and opinions on gender based violence, and how they can make a change within their school, and within their community. I listened to girls tell me they missed school due to their menstrual cycles. I listened as they asked for bathrooms and changing spaces, so that they could attend school. That was all they wanted: to attend school. You could see it in their eyes, they wanted to be there, to learn, to grow, to become doctors, actresses, teachers, among many other goals they shared with us. I thought about back home, where we complain about having to go to school, about the loads of homework, and the long days. It all hit me at once. It didn't make sense to me. How do I take everything for granted, on the daily? How do children at home not know how lucky they are to go to school? Listening to these young children talk so openly about the issues they were facing, was devastating. It hurt. It made me angry, it made me feel selfish. However, after that, I was able to sit in on their lesson for the day. I experienced the Right to Learn Project at the Mbembembe Primary School in Phalombe, Malawi. This project works to make schools into safer environments for children, focusing on reducing school related gender based violence and discrimination. I was able to watch as Yami, the Agent of Change at the school, led a lesson on sex vs. agenda. I was able to watch as the students danced around the room, singing and moving freely, learning confidence and leadership. I would like to say it was inspiring, but it was so much more than that. Even now, I still cannot find the words to describe the experience. 

The 40 hours of stop-and-go traveling home from Africa didn't even bother me. I kept thinking about the kids at that school, their joy and positivity, their passion and hunger to learn. Nothing else seemed important. I was baffled that there was this whole "other world" where people lived like this. Where children would go without a meal, would walk 2 miles to school every day. Of course we hear about it on the news and we learn about it in school. Seeing it firsthand, was something completely different. It was real. But the one thing that stuck out to me most, was that the people were the same. The people were just people; like you, like me. So why did they get this life, the one with hurt, hunger, and hardship? Why did I get wealth, an unyielding amount of food, clean water, and a roof over my head? A million questions ran through my mind. But in the end, I realized that one thing they had, that one thing that we're often missing here in America: pure, genuine joy. Malawi is often called "The Warm Heart of Africa." This is the most fitting name, because it is just that. Malawians are the kindest people I have ever met. They are always smiling, always laughing. They welcomed our bus with song and dance. Their joy and positivity was endless. And the children at the school were this, times a million. Theatre for Change was helping cultivate this, while at the same time, teaching the mothers, fathers, young boys and girls lessons to equip them with the tools they need to make a positive difference in their lives. 

A few weeks after I got home, I reached out to Ryan Borcherding, the Interactive Theatre Programme Coordinator at Theatre for a Change. I asked to be added to the mailing list, and shortly after was contacted by Clare Taylor, the Communications and Development Manager at TfaC. After many emails back and forth and a wonderful, inspiring phone call, Clare invited me to become a volunteer ambassador for Theatre for a Change. Raising awareness through social media, blogging and fundraising, I knew I wanted to be a part of the team. I was ecstatic to say the least. I wanted to share my story of my time in Africa with TfaC, with others. In the fall, I talked to Clare about blogging for a site TfaC often worked with, called Girls' Globe. "Girls’ Globe offers a platform to educate and inspire people to take action on issues related to human rights, social justice and gender equality through creative communications, driven by the connected voices of girls and women worldwide." Many things stood out to me about Girls' Globe, one being its huge platform to reach so many women & girls on an international level. Eleanor Gall, the Communications Strategist at Girls' Globe, welcomed me whole heartedly. Throughout the fall and over the holidays I worked on my post for Girls' Globe. I just recently became a blogger for the organization, and am overjoyed to share my first published piece. I hope if you take anything away from this, it is that we are more alike than we are unalike. While in Malawi I experienced pure joy in the midst of close to nothing. These children, mothers, fathers, uncles, aunts, people, are just like you. But, they live without any of the materialistic items we place such a high value upon in the States. They often live without clean water, shoes to walk to school in, books to read, blankets to sleep under, but they live with joy. I have never experienced anything like what I did in Malawi, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity I was given from Concern. 

The link to my article is below.

A Trip of a Lifetime with Theatre for a Change - Girls' Globe

xx, anna

happy holidays from concern worldwide & plans for the new year

I'm back after a break and a lovely holiday. I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with friends and family :) I've been hoping to update the blog more in this coming year, so I decided to start that a little early, and share some of the posters I received from Concern Worldwide this past week. When I opened the package, I was immediately moved. The posters were impactful and eye-opening. I am aware of these statistics from being actively involved in Concern's Leadership Network, taking part in the Malawi Field Visit this past July, and by staying up-to-date on current global issues. However, every time I see a Concern post on Instagram, scroll through their website, or read their impact stories, I am amazed. It is so inspiring to me seeing how much their organization is doing to combat global poverty. 

Just a few of the posters sent from Concern Worldwide's educational branch, Concern Active Citizenship (originally Global Concern Classroom).

In an effort to spread awareness about growing poverty rates, lack of access to education, food distribution, sustainable agriculture methods and unclean drinking water around the world (specifically in developing countries), the Concern Active Citizenship program has sent posters to hang up in schoolrooms, local businesses, etc, in hopes that others will take action. 

Holiday card from Concern & two of the many posters sent.

In the new year, I am hoping to teach a class based around global issues, using theatrical-based methods. I will be following some of the Concern Active Citizenship curriculum, and incorporating original theatre activities and lessons to follow along

holiday giving & concern worldwide: 

They call the holiday season the "season of giving." However, society has turned Christmas into a very big holiday of receiving, with ads promoting what we "all want" for Christmas, and how to "score the best gift." Of course, there is nothing wrong with receiving. We all love getting gifts, and we also enjoy giving them. However, we have, as a society, strayed away from the true meaning of Christmas time and the holiday season: giving. It is always a good idea to remember that so many people do not/cannot receive gifts this time of year, so to appreciate everything and everyone you have around you.

 This year, my family decided to donate to Concern as part of our holiday giving. On Concern's website, there is a list of donation amounts, each describing where your money will go, and what it will be doing to help in Concern's efforts to combat world poverty. My family chose the third option of a donation to feed 26 malnourished children for 6 weeks. Some of the other donations can include:

• giving 2 families farming tools to grow crops

• buying 4 months of classroom supplies for a school. Any amount can help and bring hope to those in need.

To donate to Concern this season, click here. 

Happy Holidays! Looking forward to everything to come in 2018.

Xx, anna

concern leadership network

Because Giving Tuesday was only a few weeks ago, I thought I'd share a little bit about Concern Worldwide, and how they chose to take on Giving Tuesday this year. 

After traveling to Malawi with Concern Worldwide this past July, I was informed that I should consider becoming a member of the CLN. What exactly is the CLN? "The Concern Leadership Network (CLN) is a community of leaders, advocates, and influencers who are taking action locally to bring about positive and lasting change for families living in extreme poverty around the world." What I was most inspired by was the fact that the CLN is made up of so many college students, and young adults. I thought it was incredible that Concern created an branch to let younger generations become heavily involved in the work they are doing. Another aspect of the CLN I love is that it fits uniquely to each member. Being a part of the CLN, you can use your own talents, interests and passions to create lasting change. 

Giving Tuesday took place on November 28th of this year. The day recognizes a movement to create an international day of giving at the beginning of the holiday season. To #ShowYourConcern this Giving Tuesday, the Concern Leadership Network launched an effort to encourage individuals to donate their one week's worth of coffee money. This really shows that even though your donation may have been small, any contribution counts. Concern's goal this year, between coffee money donations, bar proceeds and individual donations, was to raise $5,000. 

This year, Concern raised $7,681 - more than 50% beyond their goal of $5,000. After an added $5,000 donation from a CLN member, Concern reached $12,681. 

Sylvia Wong, one of my biggest role models, and the Director of Public Engagement at Concern's New York office, shared with CLN members, some statistics to think about.

$12,681 can provide:

•     840 blankets to keep malnourished children warm
•     252 mosquito nets to prevent disease in Haiti
•     42 health centers with supplies to diagnose and treat malnutrition

Concern recognizes that "You’ve treated yourself on Black Friday, so why not treat someone that really needs it on Giving Tuesday." 

Click here to learn more about the Concern Leadership Network or visit https://www.concernusa.org for more information!

global issues class: focus on barriers to education around the world

As a GCC Club leader at our homeschool co-op, our Model UN/Global Issues class has been using the Global Concerns Classroom curriculum, with a focus on the Education Unit Plan. We have been specifically talking about lack of access to education around the world, who is left out, and why? In class, we have had discussions, done activities, and watched videos regarding lack of access to education around the world, and how we can help combat this pressing issue. Today's class focused on "Who's Left Out?" This GCC lesson focused on the groups of people left out of having an access to education. 

I chose two videos to watch in class, which are linked below. The first is a Ted Talk by Kakenya Ntaiya, a Kenyan educator, feminist and social activist. Ntaiya is the founder and president of the Kakenya Center for Excellence, a primary boarding school for girls in the Maasai village of Enoosaen. Click here to to hear Kakenya's story. 

The second video we watched in class focused on the lack of access to an education for children with disabilities. The 2013 State of the World's Children report by UNICEF shares upsetting statistics regarding the amount of children with disabilities that are denied access to an education. Click here to learn more. 

After watching the videos, the class brainstormed answers to this question: "Can you think of at least three groups (or types) of people that might be denied an education?" 

The students answered. 

Seeing such accurate and relevant answers was inspiring. Throughout the class we will continue to talk about the barriers to education around the world. In January, I will be updating with videos/pictures of the Project Proposal presentations the class will be working on for the beginning of next semester. 

xx, anna