I’m in my creative element.

Life in Nice, France

Looking back over the past several years, I can honestly say that I never imagined I’d be living in France.

I’ve been taking intensive language classes for the past two months, and I’ve improved immensely.

The more time I spend completely immersed in the language, the easier it becomes (aside from the grammar)! My goal is to become completely fluent one day.

The food here is delicious, and I love that I’m able to move my body more; everywhere in this city is walkable!

It truly is the little things that make life better. I feel more at peace.

Since arriving, I have tried to truly channel my innermost creative self.

I have been saying yes and trying new things, and it has opened my eyes to just how much I was living in fear and anxiety when I was in the United States.

I do miss my friends and the amazing community I built in Portland, Oregon , but I’m excited to make some new connections here.

This week, I entered a creative DIY film festival, where the challenge was to create a short film (2-5 minutes long) in one week, based on a specific prompt.

I spent the entire week writing, producing, filming, and editing a mini film.

I had forgotten how much I missed creating just for myself.

The goal for my mini film isn’t necessarily to have it accepted into this niche film festival (although that would be really cool), it was to step outside my comfort zone and try something new.

I truly enjoyed the process of creating, and I am hopeful that I will be able to continue to create more once I’m officially settled here (the apartment search has not been easy) .

While it has been lonely at times, living in a new country (with a different language and culture) has been incredibly eye-opening.

My passion for learning languages and exploring new cultures is deepening, and I am looking forward to traveling all across Europe over the next few years.

Here are a few of my favorite photos I’ve taken since moving here.