“In the midst of winter, I found there was, within me, an invincible summer. And that makes me happy. For it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me, within me, there’s something stronger – something better, pushing right back.”
Albert Camus
From Michigan to Hawaii
Aloha, and welcome to my little slice of the internet. My name is Summer, and I’m so happy you are here! I am a Michigan girl, or a yooper to be more exact. I’ve probably lost you already, a yooper? What kinda made up nonsense is that, Summer? Well…I’m glad you asked.
Yooper- a native of Northern Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
I grew up on the shores of Lake Superior, in a small town that long ago said goodbye to the Copper Mining Industry that made it famous in the early 20th century. Growing up as an overweight and dreamy child, I never really felt like I belonged among the copper mines and snow banks.
Fast forward to 2016, I took a leap of faith and moved from Grand Rapids, Michigan to Oahu, Hawaii. I could make up a big story about how I moved and maybe one day ‘ll write a blog post about it.
Short Summary of my move-
I got sick of the snow, my boyfriend (now husband) got a great job offer on Oahu. So we headed across the pacific for a little fun in the sun. And we’ve lived here ever since.
Life Lessons Learned
I discovered a passion for travel, scuba diving, adventures and promoting mental health. I spent much of my twenties exploring careers, traveling to 10+ countries and starting no less than 12,000 hobbies.
In 2018, I was faced one on one with my own Mental Illness for the first time in my life. My father had just passed away. I was work an extremely emotionally and physically demanding job. And there came a day when I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath.
I decided to start working from home as a freelance writer, ESL Teacher, and blogger. I was able to focus on self-care, mental health, and writing.
My Diagnosis
Having all the free time to explore my passions, actually became more of a burden than a blessing. The lack of structure and routine made it harder and harder to focus and grow.
I reached out to my medical doctor, and was diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder. I was filled with shame, grief, and sadness.
I began working with a Cognitive Behavior Therapist to help me find and create a new normal. I began taking an SSRI to control my anxiety and depression.
So, Now What?
I use the Sunshine Suitcase Lifestyle Blog to inspire others. By combining my love of all things self-care, DIY, travel, and mental health; I’ve found a place where I can encourage others to work on their own personal growth.
The Sunshine Suitcase is a safe place to unpack your emotional baggage and take a step towards a brighter life.
My Favorite Things
- All things Harry Potter
- Astrology- I’m an Aries Sun with a Scorpio Moon and Ascending Sign in Gemini. (If you know what this means please get at me!)
- Gems, Rocks, Crystals- I’ve been known to say things like- “Did you know that Rose Quartz is a great crystal for self-love?”
- Water- From Lake Superior’s Shores to the Pacific Ocean, near the water is where I’m meant to be.
- DIY-ing anything– “You Made that at home?” Well now I have to give that a try!
- Sleeping! Holy smokes do I love a cuddle in my cozy bed!
- The Sunshine
- Never-ending Cups of Coffee
- Bullet Journals
- Traveling– 11 Countries and Counting!