We live in a world of big. It’s big money, and big tech, big emotions and big moments. Everything is an experience; a moment that must be captured but never topped. If it isn’t envy-inducing, did it even happen? With all of the “going big”, as opposed to “going home” Kriss found that we sometimes loose sight of the world around us. It’s the in-between blips of time that hold the most sweetness to be savored- but are often overshadowed by the juggling of our everyday lives. It was within these moments in-between moments that Kriss realized the privilege of living a life full of adventure and new experiences. A woman who has now chose to make it her life’s goal in contributing her time in impacting the lives and “moments” of others who need it the most.
|
“ I want to spend time with those I love and redefine my place in this world; because there is a whole lot more savoring to be done in this crazy life of mine.”
How would you describe yourself in one word?
Loyal.
What gets you outdoors, moving and experiencing the world around you?
This insatiable curiosity about the world around me. There is so much to do, taste, feel and experience!
Beats that get you pumped to get on the road?
Currently Lake Street Dive, those cool kids can jam!
Never leave for a trip without ...?
A deck of cards and a swimsuit.
Go-to drink of choice?
Ooo, bourbon. Or coffee! Both straight up.
Shotgun or driver?
Shotgun! Driving requires so much focus and I don’t want to commit to that.
Hostel hopper or 5-star regular?
Can there be an in between? I have done the couch-surfing backpacking trips that have you sleeping on train station floors sometimes (sorry, Mom) but sometimes a girl needs a good shower and some fuzzy slippers!
Mom's best advice?
There is always room for more at the table -- so scooch on in, the more the merrier.
Best piece of travel advice you have received?
Every McDonalds has free WiFi. If you don’t want to do the map thing in new cities but you don’t have an international plan, hit up a MickyD’s and star the places you want to hit and then wander from there.
Who inspires you?
Ah, so clichéd, but my friends. They have hearts of gold, love so well and would be happy to wander for the rest of their lives.
Where would you most like to live in the world?
Mmm, the southern coast of Spain. Exotic beaches, the Mediterranean, and cava … what more could you want?
What does the word “Mindful " mean to you?
Mindful means thinking outside of your own bubble. Thinking across cultural barriers to take into consideration how your actions are going to affect those around you.
Do you remember the first moment in life that motivated you to help others?
I remember being on a road trip as a family, I had to be 4 or 5, and we stopped at In N Out. I have no idea where we were or where we were going but I remember my dad ordering one extra meal and putting it aside as we ate inside. He brought it back to the car and as we loaded up and left, he rolled down his window and handed the meal to a man standing on the corner with a sign right at the exit of the parking lot. I couldn’t read but I heard the pleasantries exchanged and then my dad’s signature “have a blessed day, partner” and the man’s emphatic “thank you!” … how could you not want to emulate the act of giving such joy? Even if that joy comes in the form of an In-N-Out double-double with fries.
What drives you now?
I want to find my own story and leave a mark on this world. I don’t have to change the lives of thousands but I would love to be able to leave this planet having made at least one person’s life better.