A Summer Romance

This summer, I reignited a connection with an old flame I've known for over two decades—myself.

Traveling alone has a certain romance to it, especially when you're achieving goals far from home.

My book launched on June 23, 2022, following a family trip to Reno for a community service conference and the serene beauty of Lake Tahoe. Afterward, I ventured solo to Los Angeles and later Chicago.

Coordinating flights with my youngest sister and mom led to a poignant moment watching the sunrise over Reno's mountains on July 5, 2022. I boarded my one-way flight to LAX, embarking on a 44-hour coach train journey to Chicago. Fortunately, I wasn't alone on this adventure—I stayed with a dear friend in her cozy West Hollywood apartment, warmly welcomed by her roommate and reunited with the cats from my teenage years (like Oliver, pictured below).

Touching down at LAX, I stepped into the California sunshine with a dream in my heart and my trusty cardigan. Alongside my luggage, wide-brim hat, and Anon—an artist's manikin featured on my book's cover, embodying various roles from potential romantic partner to symbol of self-love and dreams.

Anon, though not physically real, shared my journey through airports without raising eyebrows from other travelers.

"I'm 25," I reminded myself, reveling in newfound freedoms like renting a car (soon to turn 26 by summer's end). Driving along LA's bustling highways, I made my way to Santa Monica Pier, where a misstep resulted in a scraped elbow and some bruising—a minor setback that briefly worried me for my upcoming work, but didn't dampen my spirits. I explored the pier's rides, gazed at the vast blue ocean and mountains, and collected postcards. Dining solo at KazuNori for sushi hand rolls and savoring a Diet Coke in a glass bottle at the bar, I pondered my next adventure—it was only Day 1 in LA, after all!

"I made it! I'm here... I'm doing the thing!" I exclaimed.

My time in LA was vibrant and fulfilling, focusing especially on my art modeling. Amidst reflective moments, I nurtured a deeper sense of self-love. While many days were spent solo, I cherished reconnecting with lifelong friends who hosted me. Beverly Hills lost me briefly, and Universal Studios Hollywood offered a thrilling solo adventure. Olivia and I hiked down and back up to witness a breathtaking Malibu sunset along the Pacific Coast Highway, spending quality time with her family and those beloved cats.

I can't wait for my next LA adventure—it's bound to be just as colorful and beautiful as this one.