One Year Later

It's been a year since my mom's passing, and it's a little easier to think and talk about, sure, but never less upsetting.  Sometimes it just doesn't feel real, that she's actually gone.  What I miss the most, is that I can't share anything... no good news sharing, no venting frustrations... not even a simple call to ask her how the weather is back home.

One thing I will continue to admire, is how she always seemed fearless when it came to pursuing her passions.  She always encouraged me to reach for whatever it is I want in my life, and it comes as no surprise, she made a positive impact in other's lives, too.  This year, I'm making a promise to myself to pursue more of my own passions with that same fearless ambition she embodied so well.  

And today, I'm honoring her by remembering of the kindness and generosity I experienced last year during my family's time of grief.  I was so very touched by the number of friends (old and new), colleagues, neighbors, and acquaintances who reached out to us.  I couldn't have completed this year without that support, so a warm and hearty thank you goes out to you all.

One of the most amazing things that can happen is finding someone who sees everything you are and won’t let you be anything less. They see the potential of you. They see endless possibilities. And through their eyes, you start to see yourself the same way. As someone who matters. As someone who can make a difference in this world.
— Susane Colasanti, So Much Closer (via Sorakeem)

Marie Frei

One Carry-On is a blog managed by Marie Frei, a travel expert and photographer with a passion for exploring off the beaten path locations. The blog covers honest and personal stories about living and traveling as an American abroad, shares her global appreciation for culture and design, and promotes traveling to far-flung destinations with a carry-on as fun, affordable, and easy.