These are pictures of Tuscaloosa, Alabama after a F4 tornado swept through the city on April 27th. My mother and I went to the city when I was signing up for classes during orientation since I will be attending the University of Alabama in the fall (Roll TIde!). I was horrified by the destruction we saw, however, when I saw the amount of support all of the disaster victims were receiving not only from the city but from the University and its alumni, I suddenly felt like I was part of something much bigger than a college. It’s a family. Instead of scaring me about going off to school 10 hours from my parents, it has comforted me to know that instead of leaving, I will be going home and I cannot wait to get there.

These are my favorite pictures from one of my favorite places on earth, Kenya.

Two summers ago, I travelled to Kenya on a mission trip with my church. Not only did I witness breathtaking scenery and picturesque landscapes, but I met some of the most genuine people. From the traditional people of the Masai tribe, to adorable children brimming with curiosity about msungu, or white people, that had travelled halfway across the world. My heart hurt for the people living in such depths of poverty, however the smiles from the children gave me hope for their future and also the future of their country. 

Alabama Football, woohoo!