with Erica

What was your last dream [or last dream that you can remember] about?
Well…I’m currently taking malerone, it’s an anti-malarial drug. It makes your dreams quite vivid and easy to remember, so I remember most of them lately. Anything I’ve thought about or discussed during the day will pop up in one way or another in my dreams!

What sound or noise do you love?
The sound of rain, thunder and lightning. Especially at night. It has a very relaxing, soothing lull to it that is very peaceful. It also means that water is plentiful, which is something we should not take for granted.

What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?
I recently climbed to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, physically and mentally. It definitely pushed me to my limits, and nearly to my breaking point a few times. But I kept reminding myself that every situation-no matter how good or bad-is temporary, and that the hard parts would eventually end. One step at a time, I made it to the top!

What turns you on [creatively, spiritually or emotionally]?
Traveling. Traveling pushes my limits to places I didn’t know existed and makes me feel alive. It pushes me out of my comfort zone and forces me to figure out what I am capable of. It’s when I feel most alive and most appreciative of the life I lead.

What is something you have wanted to do for a long time?
I’d really like to visit Antarctica. I’d like to do it in a way that is compliant with environmental tourism standards, so as not to further damage an already weakening area. Although I don’t love being cold, I do love seeing all of the beautiful landscapes that our earth has to offer, and this would be the 7th continent that I would see the sun rise over (although I’d go in their summer, so I’m not sure the sun even sets, let alone rises…;) )

What are you grateful for?
Everything. I just got back from a beautiful country riddled with corruption and a huge lack of infrastructure. It makes you appreciate how much we have and use and take for granted-water, toilets, showers, the FDA, health and hygiene standards, medicine, schools, paved roads, stop lights and crosswalks…All things that contribute to the safety and success of ourselves and the people we love, and while our government is far from perfect, we live in a place where the upkeep of these “basic” things is ensured and taken for granted. I’m grateful for all of it.

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This is an open-to-all series, so come have a seat!
Email Natalie to participate:

natiartphotography@gmail.com