Zenbivy

This season lacks backpacking, but it’s been full of car camping.

With more projects coming up and the outdoor bug still itching, I had to find a way to satisfy my hot girl summer. I don’t know what that means, but it’s provocative. So I’ve teamed up with Zenbivy. They have surpassed possibilities with ‘comfortable outdoor sleeping.’ In fact, I think they’ve revolutionized it!

They offer multiple all-in-one sleep systems. I went with MotoBed. It includes a combo sleeping pad (air and foam), synthetic sleeping quilt, and hood. No lie - this system will probably become my go-to car camping setup.

If you’re a fan of camping and want a convenient sleep system, I’d strongly recommend their gear. Hopefully, I’ll check out their backpacking setup in the future!

Alfresco Fortresses

Have you felt the trap? I have.

2020 lingered with many shocking realities in our world. And 2021 has kept us inhabiting our households as the world slowly begins to open up again. I can’t tell you enough how glad I am that spring/summer is welcoming us with open arms. An opportunity to sneak away from the suburban hustle and find an excuse to wander lands I’ve never seen.

While I’ve grown up in Illinois, my exploration of its natural beauty is very limited. I’ve traveled the PNW, the East coast, and overseas. But Illinois, I have sadly lacked roaming your land.

I’m changing that.

When 2021 began, I made an oat to see more of the Land of Lincoln. Already, I have gone camping in the Midwest’s “Garden of the Gods.” Located in Shawnee National Forest. I have traveled to at least 12 forest preserves. And I plan on visiting more! But this is the time to sojourn Illinois’ alfresco fortresses.

So every moment that I have off of work, a couple of free hours, or a weekend free - I’m heading outside.

I’ve been to Starved Rock in the past. But never have I heard about Matthiessen State Park. Literally just 5 minutes away from Starved Rock. A quick Google search for Illinois’ best outdoor locations brought me to this gem.

Growing up, I never imagined my state hosting such charming locations. Canopies of trees overhead, miles of hiking trails, and even waterfalls that make you stop and stare.

These simple travels outside remind me two simple things - be grateful for what we have and love the Earth.

Long Time Coming

This page is probably long overdue.

I remember when I first started taking photos for people. There was a rush of adrenaline. My sophomore year of high school I had sold my first few prints. It was one of the most exciting moments of my life. “People want to buy my work? What!” It was very humbling. I had no training in photography. After many years and many seasons of fumbling around the camera, I know I love photographing stories.

As I transitioned into college I continued my passion for photography. I started photographing for companies and picked up more opportunities to photograph for people. Again I was shocked that people wanted to hire me. Alas, I came and I worked. Over the years I’ve had great photography teachers that have encouraged and challenged me. It were their challenges that benefited me the most. I don’t settle for the status quo; I don’t like following trends of photography. I always try to be original in my style. Thankfully, even if my photography teachers didn’t always like my style, they appreciated my willingness to be uncomfortable.

Without marketing myself as a photographer I have been blessed to work with amazing organizations, churches, events, and people. I love what I do because I get to meet wonderful people and capture their stories - through my lens.

Will you join me on this adventure?