Time Flies, But You Are The Pilot.

Only recently has the meaning of 'time flies' really become apparent in my life, my father may still kiss me on the forehead as if I were a little girl but the reality is that this year is going to be a huge jump on the path to adulthood. Moments flitter past me as if they were tiny flecks of dust in the rays of sunlight swimming lazily, through a windowpane. It isn't long until I will venture out into this world so I will definitely begin making a scrapbook this year to look back on, for now- I would like to share some of my favourite memories from 2014 with you.

 Alice & Marla: These two little cherubs are my twin cousins and they not only returned from their birthplace of Australia at the start of this year, but also 'celebrated' their very first birthday. I have watched them grow from fuzzy, milky little creatures into true characters and that makes me both incredibly happy and incredibly sad. The idea of them growing up and exploring this wonderful, yet dangerous world of ours is daunting but I can't wait to have real conversations with my favourite ladies.

 An unexpected adventure: This summer I arranged to go on the summer programme NCS, which meant travelling away from home and spending three weeks with total strangers whilst challenging ourselves on hikes and organising a social action project. I never went to scouts or did anything action-related, at least not without my family, whilst growing up, so the entire experience was totally surreal to me. Anxiety and frustration aside, it was one of the best things I have ever done. The three weeks left me feeling confident in myself, proud of my team and grateful for meeting some wonderful people. Cheesey moment.

Grateful: I did not spend nearly as much time as I would have liked with my friends this year, they make me extremely happy and the events which did occur- will remain with me forever. This photo was taken of us all on a spontaneous trip to Sandwich, where we trekked through land marshes and golf courses trying to find the beach, which upon arrival was freezing cold! We shared homemade goodies and other picnic food, skimmed stones, huddled from the wind in a tiny tent and felt totally disconnected from reality- a beautiful day spent with beautiful people.

Home: My brother returned from his year away in Australia early in 2014 and if there had to be a single person who I had to choose to spend my last ever day on Earth with, this is your guy. He is the voice which encourages me to speak the truth, my own personal Christopher robin, a best friend, a father figure and so much more. I know I will have many adventures and journeys this year and no doubt he will be right by my side. 

Realisation: This planet offers endless explorations, potential photographs, words and love to be found. I travelled to Spain with my family and best friend at around Easter time and although riddled with tonsillitis in the searing heat, the trip opened my eyes to the possibilities we face during our short stay on Earth. There are so many powerful scenes to be captured and things to experience, it is overwhelming but so inspiring to feel both utterly insignificant and yet in control of something so powerful as your own destiny. I can't wait to see where this world will take me next. 

First times: My other half and I endured our first full-on festival this summer, in Reading. It was stressful, muddy and the intense atmosphere fuelled many an argument, and yet it made us grow as individuals in such a short space of time. We adapted our sleeping schedules, endured the dirt and grime and made the most of the experience. We travelled home soaking wet, exhausted and sniffling but happy knowing that we had seen some of our favourite bands perform. Each and every day I learn more about the person I call mine and I adore celebrating these cherished moments we have spent together. More cheese, not sorry.