Meet a CSGer: Abby
CSG’s new strategy intern, Abby Wood, comes to us with a relentlessly sunny disposition, a big heart and a deep appreciation for the little things. Read on to learn more about the eternal optimist’s travel bug and why she says life really is “all sunshine and rainbows.”
A case of the travel bug.
I blame (and thank) my family for my case of the travel bug.
There was never going to be a time in my life that I wasn’t eager to get out and explore the world. I grew up traveling all over the United States. My parents, myself and my two brothers would pack our minivan to the brim, pile in, grab our Nintendo DSes (my favorite game was Donkey Kong) and hit the road for another national park or destination.
I hold these family vacations so close to my heart because it was a chance to see the world and spend quality time with my family that would otherwise be taken away due to jobs, school, sports and other obligations.
Without this initial exposure to the world and traveling, my case of the travel bug would be much less severe. But, clearly that’s not the case.
I’ve been to approximately 16(ish) countries and 28(ish) states. I was able to hit 11 of those 16 countries during my study abroad in Prague, Czech Republic. And I hope it doesn’t stop there!
The Worst Question: Mountain or Beach
This is such a cruel question, and I have never been able to give a clear and concise answer. I always end up justifying my decision for why I would choose both. I think it makes so much more sense than just choosing the mountains or beach – I mean how is that possible?
So, here goes my justification:
The mountains and beach are similarly and uniquely capable of giving someone an escape from reality, but in different ways.
To me, the mountains are “a livable escape”. You are able to psychically and mentally let go while still being tied to your roots. It’s a quick trip out of the city where you can immerse yourself into the fresh mountain air, stripping every worry and stress out of your mind. The moment I pass through the Eisenhower Tunnel, I immediately feel relaxation go into overdrive. Regardless of the season, you can always count on a beautiful blue bird day waiting for you to enjoy, especially during ski season.
On the other hand, the beach is my happy place. It’s an absolute escape from reality — no phones, no work and no obligations. While I could never live in a beach destination, it is easily my go-to vacationing spot. There is nothing better than going for a walk on the beach and hearing the ocean waves crash beside you. The Abaco, Bahamas is somewhere that means so much to me, and highly recommend visiting to everyone. It’s where I grew up visiting my grandparents and it’s easily my favorite place in the world.
Having a positive mindset.
I would argue that one of my strongest characteristics is my optimism. I tend to always go into things, no matter how uncomfortable or uncertain I may feel, with a positive can-do mindset. I am always looking at the bigger picture and trying not to get caught up on little things that don’t go my way.
You can always expect me to have a smile on my face, crack a joke from my long list of dad jokes and think positively.
Appreciating the Little Things
One of my favorite t-shirts says “It’s all sunshine and rainbows.” And it really is! It can be really easy to overlook the simple and small things that happen in life, but sometimes appreciating those little moments add up to a lifetime of happiness — I know it’s cheesy, but it’s true.
Right now, I live in a house that is over 100 years old with five other girls. Luckily, it is a drama free house, but we don’t have air conditioning, all six of us have to share one refrigerator and there’s only two bathrooms. It sounds a bit miserable, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Appreciating the small things is a way to really make your life feel like “It’s all sunshine and rainbows.”
My Proud Little Sister Moment
One of my happiest and proudest moments of being a sister was March 14, 2020. This was the day that my older brother got married, and luckily, I officiated the wedding. It was such an honor to reflect on our relationship and piece together a ceremony speech that would be special for Andrew and his husband, as well as myself.
Family means so much to me and being able to share this moment is something very special.