Well. It's November. Almost December. Cambodia feels like a lifetime ago despite being only a few months since I returned.
You might be curious about what I've been up to since I returned. So am I. According to the photo above, I've gone on at least one hike. There.
What I've been up to lately defies all standard definitions that I have normally found comfort in adapting to. I'm not a student anymore, I don't have what most people would define as a "full time job"...so what am I really? Despite the seemingly daunting nature of this question, I've actually been enjoying asking it far more than I would have expected. One of the things Cambodia taught me about myself is that I do not thrive in the type of environments I've been trying to force myself into for most of my life.
(mainly structured, consistent, predictable ones...which I thought I preferred...turns out I like "planned variety") .
For the past three months I have been freelancing in many different ways, working part time, getting involved in a couple projects...and I have never felt more authentically myself and happy with my life than I have for the past three months. Of course the uncertainty of the future is frequently overwhelming, but it's balanced with a sense that the risks are worth it because I'm doing what I actually believe in and am excited about.
What I've been up to lately defies all standard definitions that I have normally found comfort in adapting to. I'm not a student anymore, I don't have what most people would define as a "full time job"...so what am I really? Despite the seemingly daunting nature of this question, I've actually been enjoying asking it far more than I would have expected. One of the things Cambodia taught me about myself is that I do not thrive in the type of environments I've been trying to force myself into for most of my life.
(mainly structured, consistent, predictable ones...which I thought I preferred...turns out I like "planned variety") .
For the past three months I have been freelancing in many different ways, working part time, getting involved in a couple projects...and I have never felt more authentically myself and happy with my life than I have for the past three months. Of course the uncertainty of the future is frequently overwhelming, but it's balanced with a sense that the risks are worth it because I'm doing what I actually believe in and am excited about.
Anyway...now to what I am actually doing.
I've been enjoying having the time to do more photography work, like working on my website, or doing shoots for fun. I also have quite a few
sessions booked in December, both in Edmonton and Vancouver! I've also had the chance to do another solar dyeing workshop and visit some classes at my school to talk about my trip.
To support my freelancing habits, I recently got myself a part time job at a kids clothing store and have really been enjoying it. Having something that's consistent but doesn't take up the whole week helps get me out of the house but also leaves room for all the other things I want to do. Which is great.
I've been enjoying having the time to do more photography work, like working on my website, or doing shoots for fun. I also have quite a few
sessions booked in December, both in Edmonton and Vancouver! I've also had the chance to do another solar dyeing workshop and visit some classes at my school to talk about my trip.
To support my freelancing habits, I recently got myself a part time job at a kids clothing store and have really been enjoying it. Having something that's consistent but doesn't take up the whole week helps get me out of the house but also leaves room for all the other things I want to do. Which is great.
One particular project is getting me quite excited.
I met someone who has an idea for an up-cycled menswear clothing line, and I am joining them in their idea as the designer. The ultimate goal is to intercept the bundles of used clothing that would be discarded/sent over-seas by thrift stores, and fix/alter them or turn them into something else, simultaneously diverting waste and re-painting how the fashion industry can function.
Yep. I'm super stoked.
The ball is starting to roll a bit and I will have more details soon, but for now I'm not gonna say too much more. We haven't really established an online presence yet but very soon I will be posting on Instagram at @rbrnapparel if you're interested.
I do not have a "full time job" but my time is certainly full. And it's full of good things :)
A recent photoshoot at Queen Elizabeth Park!
I've been adopting and naming plants as a new hobby...
Got the chance to do another solar dyeing workshop for home ec teachers recently!
The leaves aren't quite this colorful anymore
Another recent photoshoot :)
A hike to Kennedy Falls in North Vancouver with a friend