I am participating in the black and white photo contest sponsored by 
Nazaré, Portugal - February 28, 2016
Nestled within Portugal's rocky coast, Nazaré is a sleepy beach town most known for Garrett McNamara's record-setting surf. In February of 2016, my partner and I left the US on a year long trip around the world. Portugal was our first stop. It was here on this very beach we learned the grave news of Christy's beloved grandfather passing. I will never forget this day. An unexpected winter storm raged through the town. Her grandfather was a man of the sea and there is no doubt his presence was within that storm.
Everyday Hanoi
Much later in our travels, we found ourselves in Hanoi, Vietnam. Quite the opposite of Nazaré, Hanoi is a city of systematic chaos. This photo embodies the essence of life on Hanoi's streets. Look closely and you will discover all the fun details which make Vietnam so beautiful and unique.
Breaking Down Expectations
A quick Google search reveals the beauty Sapa, Vietnam has to offer. The terraced rice fields are incredible. Going into this trip, I had such high expectations of what to expect. What I didn't research was the proper time of year to visit. Having been in Southeast Asia, we had nothing but warm weather clothing. We were blindsided. Sapa was foggy, incredibly cold, and the harvest had already been completed for the year.
Not to be discouraged, we bought some knock-off North Face gear and embarked on a two day trekking adventure through the jungle and rice fields. We were led by Suen, our lamenting tour guide who had just lost his sister in law. It was on this trek that I learned to let go of all expectations. In doing so, I was able to appreciate the beauty of the situation around me. What a unique opportunity to see Sapa the way I did. What could have been a disaster led by expectation turned into a brilliant trip full of growth that was one of my most memorable experiences from our entire travel.
Thanks for taking the time to read my submissions. I would love to hear your opinion in the comments. Have something to share? Just let me know!