It’s safe to say that I have always loved the thrill of adventure; right from the very start. That is evident in the gleeful smile I had on my face as my Dad tossed me high into the air over and over(or so I’ve been told). My adventurous spirit grew and my family not only encouraged it, they provided me with incredible opportunities to act on it.

I was fortunate enough to have been able to travel to places spanning 5 of the 7 continents by the time I was 14; thanks to my strong, intelligent, loving and inspiring grandparents who brought me along on their many adventures. As I’ve been preparing for my next big adventure I have thought back on many of these trips; partly because my Mom collected these old (somewhat embarrassing) photos to put on display during the going away party my parents threw for me. I’ve thought about how much I just love exploring a place that is new and different. Diving in head first. Jumping off a cliff. Embarking on an adventure.

I’m sure it’s the same thrilling feeling I felt when I was flying through the air as a 3 year old and I’m going after it again as an (almost) 30 year old.

Cruise around the Galapagos Islands at age 10

Trip to Kenya and Tanzania when I was 9

Amsterdam circa 2013

One of our annual camping trips

Heller kids with our guide Yehuda in Israel at age 12

Playing with mud at the Dead Sea

Study abroad trip in 2008

The Hellers outside of the Palace of Versailles at age 11

On the roof of the La Pedrera building designed by Gaudi in 2008

Fearless at age 8

I would like to thank all of my family and friends who have supported me throughout my entire life and when I decided to pack up and move to the other side of the world. I am blessed to have all four of my grandparents with me today, as well as the vibrant and loving families they built. I would not be able to take on the world in this way without your love and guidance.