Waking up this morning and looking outside to a cloud filled sky, I realized it was going to be a gloomy, foggy day. After sitting in lectures for three hours straight, I walked outside to what felt like a new day. The sun was shining and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. Without thinking twice, I texted Tia and asked if she wanted to go walk around down town and take pictures with me. A minute did not even pass before I got a reply saying "YES OF COURSE!!" With a smile coming over my face, I realized Tia and I were almost identical in the way that we both love exploring and taking pictures. We began brainstorming ideas on where we should explore next and the only thing on my list, that was in walking distance from the campus, was historic downtown. Downtown Eau Claire is known for its authentic buildings, unique coffee shops and restaurants, and gorgeous scenery. A few of my favorite spots include Micon Downtown Cinema, Lismore, The Farmers Market, and Revival Records. Even though I love big cities and all the opportunities they have to offer, I love small towns in the way that they are designed. There isn't large individual stores separated from each other, but rather continuous blocks of smaller stores that are connected by walls. In Eau Claire for example, each build is different from its neighbor in brick and paint color which creates an inviting feel to the community. Though the walk was a lot longer than we had anticipated it to be, it wasn't unbearable due to the sun being out and the temperature being 62° (which is the highest it has been in weeks). Tia and I spent an hour and a half walking through downtown Eau Claire talking to shop owners and taking pictures. Though we probably looked dumb taking pictures of each other, we did it anyways. I think college students sometimes forget that there is more to their city beyond their campus and the party life. I have always been an adventurous child and my parents often tell me that they would not be surprised if I traveled to a different state without telling them. Tia and I continued to walk the streets, often pointing out how unique a certain buildings brick was or how pretty the flowers were in the windows of stores. Of course once we found a interest background we liked, the camera came out and the photo shoot began. Some of my favorite locations consist of the foot bridge, barber shop, and Phoenix park (pictured above). As the sun slowly began to set and the temperature beginning to drop, Tia and I headed back towards campus, this time taking the bus. Watching the sunset as we drove around Eau Claire was truly incredible and something I will remember forever. With just over a month left of college, I am beginning to realize how much I love it here in Eau Claire (yes, my classes too) but I am extremely excited to get back home to Minnesota. Though I know I will be constantly busy this summer with two jobs and trying to maintain a social life, I am excited to be home with my family and close to the ones I love.. including my best friend Tia who is from a neighboring town! Till next time... xoxo