In Manang, Nepal being blessed by a 95-year-old monk. Circa 2010.

About me

I am a freelance journalist, blogger, and social good advocate living in Minneapolis, Minnesota with my husband and two children. A world wanderer at heart, I have been fortunate to have visited over 45 countries and am still wandering.

I began my blog in 2010 after a life-changing trip to Nepal where I hiked the Annapurna Trek with my father. I was blessed by a 95-year old cave monk and officially received my “third eye” – a source of wisdom that opened my mind and heart to the world. My goal is to teach my children and others through my work as a writer, to live compassionately, open-minded, adventurous lives that understand different cultures and the importance of giving back.

My blog focuses on a unique niche of travel (sustainable, adventure, solo and family) combined with social good topics (poverty, global health, education, human rights, women and girls’ empowerment, food security, conservation and the environment). I strongly believe that you cannot visit a new place without learning about its culture and issues at stake which is why I combine travel, culture and social good. I also aim to be a resource for amazing gifts that give back to charity and causes around the world, and on travel organizations, non-profits, and social enterprises making a social impact.

Besides my blog, I am also a freelance travel writer and content creator. Check out my portfolio here.

 

Laguna Chocuaco, Rancho Quemado, Osa Península, Costa Rica

My Work

My work has taken me to many amazing destinations. Highlights of my work include:

  • Chosen by Vestergaard to participate and report on efforts to provide safe drinking water to schools in rural Kenya by delivering and instructing the community on how to use LifeStraw water purification units. 
  • Selected by the International Reporting Project at Johns Hopkins University to be one of nine Reporting Fellows traveling across Ethiopia to document the inspiring work being done by nonprofits, businesses and governmental agencies to improve the lives of women and children. 
  • Served as a United Nations Foundation Shot@Life Ambassador using social media to advocate and raise funds for increased availability of vaccines in developing countries. 
  • Partnered with Macy’s Heart of Haiti program, visiting Haitian artisans to share their stories of resilience, opportunity and hope as they rebuild their lives following the earthquake. 
  • Summited Mount Kilimanjaro as an embedded reporter in a fundraising campaign for Solar Sister, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of rural Africans by bringing solar electricity to Sub-Saharan Africa. 
  • Participated and reported on the efforts of Chicabrava, a week-long surf camp designed to empower sex-trafficking victims in Nicaragua.
  • Recognized as a top Twitter influencer at the prestigious White House Summit for Study Abroad and Global Citizenship co-sponsored by Hostelling International USA and Partners of the Americas. 

 Press Trips

  • Follow the Liters Campaign in Kenya with LifeStraw.  In February 2018, I covered the Follow the Liters Campaign in Kenya with LifeStraw. By the end of the campaign, we reached the one millionth child to received safe drinking water in school.
  • Haiti Sustainable Tourism trip. In May 2017, I covered a culture and adventure tourism trip to Haiti with Natalie Tancrede of Explore with Nat.
  • Ethiopia: New Media Journalist Fellow – International Reporting Project Ethiopia. In June 2014, I was a New Media Journalist Fellow on a two week trip to Ethiopia with The International Reporting Project (IRP), an organization that focused on providing  journalists with the opportunity to report internationally on issues not traditionally covered in mainstream media. During the trip, I focused on Ethiopia’s efforts to prevent newborn deaths, as well as provide an overview of maternal and child health, immunizations, nutrition, communicable diseases, and health care provision, among other topics.
  • Haiti: Blogging fellow (#Bloggers4Haiti) to Haiti with Macy’s Heart of Haiti In February 2015, I went to Haiti with a small group of bloggers to learn about Macy’s Heart of Haiti program and how they are empowering Haitians through the arts.
  • Nicaragua: Press Trip to review Chicabrava -All Women’s Surf camp in San Juan del Sur Nicaragua. In 2016, I spent a week in Nicaragua at Chicabrava to experience and review their women’s surf camp. 
  • India: Mom Bloggers for Social Good Trip – Reporting trip to India to cover global health issues. May 2014.
  • Tanzania: Volunteer media trip with Solar Sister to climb Kilimanjaro. In July 2015, I joined a team of Solar Sister employees to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in honor of Solar Sister’s 5-year anniversary. We also climbed to create awareness of the energy poverty in Africa and raise funds to train new Solar Sister Entrepreneurs.

Social Good Work

I strongly believe in the power of a voice to make change and do social good. Therefore, I have began advocating for a number of non-profit organizations to help people around the world. I am have worked and advocated for advocating for the following non-profit organizations: Save the Children, WaterAid, UNICEF, Doctors without Borders, Solar Sister, the United Nations Foundation, Too Young to Wed and the ONE Campaign to write about such topics as maternal and newborn health, global health, food security, sustainable energy, girls and women’s rights, education, and humanitarian issues.

Mosebo village Ethiopia

Me with the children of Mosebo village.

International Volunteering

As a thirdeyemom, I am passionate about giving back and do so through international volunteerism. Here are links to a few of the volunteer experiences abroad I’ve had over the last few years.

La Ceiba, Honduras – January 2013. I spent a week in La Ceiba, Honduras staying with a wonderful Honduran host family, studying Spanish and volunteering with children at a day care center for single mothers. It was a fascinating experience.

Xela, Guatemala – April 2012. I studied intensive Spanish at Casa Xelaju (a Spanish Language School in Quetzaltenango) and volunteered at La Pedrera, an after-school program for underprivileged children.

Rabat, Morocco – April 2011. I spent a week volunteering with Cross-Cultural Solutions at a women’s language school.

Cartago, Costa Rica – April 2010. I spent a week volunteering with Cross-Cultural Solutions at a nursing home.

Work with Me

Want help telling your story in a compelling way? I offer a variety of freelance writing and content creation services for nonprofits, social enterprises and small to medium-sized companies. To view my freelance services, please visit my website at www.nicolemelancon.com

I am also available to use my own audience on Third Eye Mom (website, blog and social media) for sponsored posts, campaigns and product/service reviews. If interested please contact me at thirdeyemom@yahoo.com with your pitch. Please note that your product/service/brand must be a fit with my niche – sustainable/adventure travel and/or social good to be considered. Also, I do not write about destinations that I have not personally visited unless it is an interview and I do not write book reviews for free. Thank you!

Awards, recognition and other publications where my work has appeared

Impact Travel Alliance

An alliance of journalists, content creators and social media influencers around the world, Travel+SocialGood’s Media Network is a collective passionate about sustainable tourism in order to promote awareness and positive change within the industry. We believe that the power of the pen and authentic storytelling are far reaching in their scope to both humanize and bring attention to communities around the world whose narratives are often left out of the mainstream media. Member of the Media Network and my posts on sustainable travel regularly appear on the blog.

Listed in Nomad Revalations, “Top 100 Online Travel Magazines, Journalism and New Websites to Follow in 2019”. 

Travindy: A responsible tourism website

“Why using local guides matters”

Epicure & Culture: Food, Wine and Culture for the Ethical Traveler

Nicaraguan Surf Camp: Chicabrava Empowers Women Through Sports

The Holiday Lettings Blog from TripAdvisor

The Best Travel Photos of 2016 So Far

ROL Crusie

Contributor to the ROL Cruise piece ‘Top 10 cruise destinations 2018’ featuring New Zealand.

https://www.rolcruise.co.uk/blog/top-10-cruise-destinations-2018

FlipKey by TripAdvisor

Listed as one of the top 20 Incredible Photos from Travel Photographers

Contributor:

Explore Magazine:

The 50 Best Hikes in the World 

RoarCat.net

20 Something Travel Tips from Travelers Over 40

WordPress

Host and Curator of the Daily Post on WordPress: Weekly Photo Challenge: Humanity. To view piece, click here.

Series on ONE.org

ONE Moms Travel to Ethiopia to Report on Newborn Health

#EthiopiaNewborns: Challenges that Remain

Babycenter: Mission Motherhood

“The Long Walk to Deliver: Why Ethiopia Wants Women to Lie and Wait”.

ONE Women and Girls

“Haiti’s Pillars of Society are also its most vulnerable”

Save the Children: Healthy Newborn Network

Inside Save the Children’s Successful Rural Health Center in Ethiopia

United Nations Foundation: Shot@Life Blogust contributor

“Reaching Firsts and Making a Difference”

Motherly

“How to Make Mother’s Day Happier for Moms and Babies in Need”

Interviews

Podcast on Dramatic Travels

Thread MB

Nicole Melancon View Life with Three Eyes

Fan in the Spotlight: Nicole Melancon

Mamalode.com: Starter Series 

Starter Series Interview

Regular contributor on the following sites:

Click on links to see my work on these sites below.

World Moms Blog, World Voice Editor and Contributor

Elephant Journal

The Huffington Post 

Other sites where I have posted work:

MN Women’s Press (digital and print) “Women’s words around the world” – June 2014

Another Jennifer: Philanthropy Friday: Social Good Summit 2014 Recap

Sedona Chamber of Commerce: Visit Sedona – “A Morning Hike in Sedona” 

Photography/Exhibits:

10th Annual Photosphere Photo Contest: Honorable mention – Malaria

Fellowships/Product Ambassador:

International Reporting Project Ethiopia Fellow – June 2014

United Nations Foundation Social Good Fellow – Fall 2014

National Geographic Kids Insider – 2013

To view Privacy Policy for this blog, click here. 

398 comments

  1. I’ve read all your blog and love it because it’s not just about you and your trip but is truly informative. Your himalaya photos are stunning! Thank you for sharing and I can’t wait for the next post!

    Reply

    1. Thank you! It was such a life changing trip that it is hard to grasp and write about. So I’m trying my best! I have a few more entries to make on my Nepal trip and then hope to write more about some other recent trips that were important…volunteering in Costa Rica and some time spent in Argentina.
      I’m glad you enjoy everything! 🙂

      Reply

  2. Hi,

    I’d like to invite you to participate in my research: “What Do Bloggers Want to Preserve? Defining the ‘Essence’ of User-Generated Content for Preservation.” This study will gain an understanding of how bloggers value their blogs and what elements bloggers think are important for preservation.

    You are being asked to participate because your blog posts are tagged as being related to the theme of travel in one of the blog-hosting services and because your blog is not hosted by any commercial agency. Your participation is completely voluntary.

    The survey is NOW OPEN and will remain open until midnight (EDT) 20 April 2011. If you are interested and would like to part in take the survey, please visit this URL: http://bloggersurvey.web.unc.edu/

    Thank you in advance for considering participation in my study, and please
    feel free to pass along this survey to others who might be interested!
    Ayoung Yoon
    Doctoral Student
    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    School of Information and Library Science
    ayyoon@email.unc.edu

    Reply

    1. Actually, I was born and raised in MN, then went to UW-Madison where I met my husband. We lived in Chicago in our twenties and moved back here 11 yrs ago to start a new job. I hated the idea of moving back here since many people never ever leave MN (something like 80% stay!). Yet, I moved to the city (I grew up in the suburbs), had a family and I actually love living here now. There are four lakes with over 20 miles of running and biking paths right outside my door, over 13,000 lakes in the state, lots of great restaurants and now after all these years MN is getting more diverse with one of the largest Somali populations in the country. In an ideal world, I’d love to live abroad or in a big city, but for having a 4 and 6 yrd old, it is really a great place to live with enough excitement and outdoor nature to keep me going. It helps that I run year round and also ski and snow shoe. I am sure SD is nice too! Everyone who says the midwest is flyover land must never have been here, huh!

      Reply

  4. Hi! I just discovered your blog from FP. It is great and I love the name and meaning behind it. I feel the same way about travel and experiencing the world. I was drawn in by your post on Mt. Fitz Roy. Several years ago we traveled to Patagonia to Torres Del Paine and were then headed to Mt. Fitz Roy. However, due to unusually bad weather we had to be rescued out of Torres and did not make it to Fitz Roy. Anyway, it was a memorable trip as the name of the Mt. we were planning to explore stuck with me all this time. I too, have finally started a blog and hope to accomplish related goals although on an entirely different topic. From reading the account of what you’ve done before starting the blog, I can relate to many of those experiences as well but now hope to put my passion out there with an inspiring blog. Oh, one more thing…just returned from a trip to Costa Rica (Drake Bay area) and it was amazing. Looks like you have been to the country as well. I look forward to reading more of thirdeyemom.

    Reply

    1. Thank you! I’ve been wanting to write one for a long time. After over twenty years of journaling and sending out long winded Shutterfly albums of my trips, I decided to go for it. It has been very rewarding because it attracts people who are like-minded and I’ve really enjoyed reading other people’s blogs and sharing experiences. I just subscribed to your blog (I love to garden too but am no good!) so I look forward to reading what you are writing as well. As for your trip, I wonder if you loved Torres del Paine as much as I did. It was my husband and my last real adventurous trip together before we had kids. Now I do most of my hiking trips with my father as it is nice to have a parent home with the little ones. AS for Costa Rica, did you write about this trip on your blog? Another wonderful place!

      Reply

  5. Hi, I just discovered your blog from the Cross Cultural Solutions facebook page! I agree with others, your blog is great because your writing is about you, but, also about your travels.

    Your writing is fantastic, and your blog is interesting.

    I’m going to New Delhi in the next couple of weeks and will be there for four days before I go on the the CCS Dharamshala program.

    I look forward to reading more of your blog!!

    ~Donna Gisi

    Reply

    1. Wow! That is great you are going on the India CCS program! How exciting! Are you going to write about it? I’d love to hear about what the program is like there. I am not at all done with volunteering abroad. It is an amazing, life changing experience so enjoy every minute of it, even the hard stuff. India is an amazing place. Probably the craziest place I’ve ever been so far but it is amazing in itself. What a fabulous opportunity for you! If you keep a blog, let me know! Thanks for writing!

      Reply

  6. Thank you for the visit. Nice to hear from your again. I always enjoy following your travel journeys around the world. the Iceland series is a blast. How do I send the postcard to thirdeyworld? Is that under wordpress. I’m kind of new with blogging and computer stuff. have a blessed, fun day.

    Reply

  7. Thanks! To send a postcard, visit my other site: http://www.thethirdeyeworld.com. I put some basic guidelines there. Basically you choose a picture, write a few words about it and email it to me at thirdeyemom@yahoo.com. Then I will post it with your information enclosed. Let me know if you have any questions! It is great to have guest writers on that site. That is what I hope it will end up being!

    Reply

  8. Love your blog’s new look and how you’ve arranged your content re: categories etc. I plan to spend some time delving into the archives! 🙂 You’ve travelled in a lot of the places I’ve always wanted to go to.

    Reply

  9. Thanks so much. Of course I got the idea from your amazing post on themes. I think this theme is much better as the words are larger and you can actually read it. I’m not sure whether or not the pictures look less sharp. Maybe it is because they are bigger and you can tell that I’m using my digital camera now! I’m working on learning to use my husband’s Cannon Rebel which over time will hopefully improve my pics. Thanks again for all your ideas! Your site is amazing! 🙂

    Reply

  10. whoah this blog is wonderful i love reading your posts. Keep up the great work! You know, a lot of people are hunting around for this information, you can aid them greatly.

    Reply

  11. Thank you for the comment /visit. It’s always a pleasure to read your inspiring thoughts. Post a day challenge is under daily post( I think I have it in one of my links). It also has a post a week and a weekly photo challenge. it’s a great way to meet new bloggers. It’s fun too. i’m part of the weekly post/photo. I can’t do the daily one. Try it. I’d love to see you be a part of it. God bless you and your family.

    Reply
  12. Pingback: My Seven Links « Jennifer Avventura's Adventure Files

  13. Hi! I didn’t know that you studied French! Quelle bonne surprise! I studied French for a year and a half at the French Cultural Center when I was in college. But now it’s kind of rusty 🙂 However I still love the language and really love watching French movies (partly in order not to completely forget some words).

    Reply

  14. Hello Third-eye Mom–
    Thought I should say hello–similar philosophies I think, and while I just became a full time mom and world traveler 18 months ago, it has been the most awesome thing in my life! Keep on blogging…

    Best,
    Suzanne

    Reply

  15. Hi there–I nominated your blog for the Versatile Blogger Award–don’t really know what this means, but I guess we’ll find out. Your blog is beautiful. Love the message. Keep up the traveling and writing.

    Happy Thanksgiving,
    Suzanne

    Reply

    1. Hi Suzanne!

      Thanks so much for the nomination! I truly appreciate it! I also appreciate your kind words so thank you! I actually have already done the Versatile Blogger Award before, probably about a month ago, before you were reading my blog. So I will go ahead and let the others you nominated pass the torch along! Thanks again!!!!

      Reply

  16. Hey Thirdeyemom,
    I just saw that you subscribed to my blog. Thanks for stopping by; I look forward to seeing your comments and suggestions. Looks like you have a very nice blog here with some great photos and stories.
    Huffygirl

    Reply

  17. Just came across your blog. I went to Wisconsin-Madison too! I just graduated last December and I miss being there so much! I am looking forward to reading more posts from you!

    Reply

    1. Great! A fellow Badger! I met my husband at Madison so we both go way back there. For us, its been awhile as I graduated in 1994! But my husband goes to badger games every fall with the guys. All our UW friends ended up in Chicago where we used to live too and I miss them. Thanks for reading!

      Reply

  18. Hi Nicole,

    I noticed a comment you made on someones blog about using Open Salon. I have joined up, but am having some troubles. Maybe you can help. I’ve submitted my RSS feed so that new posts are automatically sent to OS, however, I’ve just noticed that OS is only displaying the headline of the post, and no content. I looked at your page on OS and you don’t seem to be having that problem. What am I doing wrong? Thank you in advance.

    Jennifer

    Reply

    1. Hi Jennifer:

      Yes, i believe I told Debra about it. Hmm…that is interesting. All I did was set up the RSS feed from WordPress and it worked. Maybe you could email Open Salon to see if they know what is going on. I would think they may have a help/contact email/support group like WordPress. Otherwise, my only other thought may be to delete your account and try again. But I would first try contacting them since i didn’t have that problem. It runs really smoothly and in fact, I hardly even look at it. Let me know if you need any more help. Another blog friend of mine told me about it first so she may know more. Another good site to blog on is called Elephant Journal. It gets over 170,000 hits a month! It is like an online newpaper of a wide variety of blogs. I am reposting some of my past posts. You can contact the editor there to see if you are a good fit. It has helped my blog a lot too! Nicole

      Reply

    1. Thanks so much for your email and the award. I clicked on the link, however, and there is nothing there. Can you please resend it to me? Thanks again for reading!

      Reply

  20. Stumbled across your blog via Bama’s site (What an Amazing World!) and I’ve just spent a good couple of hours reading through all your posts on China. Each one is hugely insightful and I’m blown away by how much you got out of the trip. China is not an easy place to love – especially for first-timers – and you coped really well with the extreme cultural differences. I’ll always remember the last time I crossed a main road in Shanghai, the pedestrian signal was green but we still had to thread our way through the oncoming traffic, big buses and all! I am heading up to Beijing next week, it will be interesting to see how it is under sub-zero temperatures. Hopefully there will be less smog this time around.

    Next time see if you can drop by Hong Kong – it feels vastly different from both Beijing and Shanghai and at least you won’t get run over while crossing the street!

    Reply

    1. Wow, thank you for such a nice compliment! I am so happy that you enjoyed my posts! Make sure you spend time in the Hutongs in Beijing. That was my favorite part! I would love to go to Hong Kong. Hopefully someday! If you write some posts on China when you return, let me know. I’d love to read them! Thanks for reading! Have fun in Beijing.

      Reply

  21. Love your blog! We spent about 3 weeks in China in October 2009 and your description of how you feel about the awesome country mirrors mine! Thanks for sharing. Look forward to more of your travel stories

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much Ashely! That is so kind of you! I was actually nominated awhile back and did a post on this (it may have been six months ago). I’m wondering if there is a way I can just skip the part on me and nominate some new blogs that I’ve discovered. Let me think about this….Thanks again for reading! 🙂

      Reply

    1. Hola Lico! I’m back now. I am not sure why you can’t find me on FB. You can look at the front page of this website and “like” my fb page. Or else you can send me your fb name again and I will look you up. Let me know. Hope the volcano is doing well!

      Reply

    1. Sure of course! It looks fun! Does it have to be somewhere exotic or can it be anywhere in the US as well? I’d love to as the kids would get a kick out of it for sure!

      Reply
  27. Pingback: Sharing a Sardinian Life with you « the Thought Palette

  29. Hi, thanks for the follow over on my blog today…and it is great to meet you. I really look forward to looking through your blog, and all of your travel adventures. Now that our kids are grown and out on their own, my husband and I need to start planning a little more travel. Volunteering seems like a great way to do it.

    Reply

    1. Wonderful! I highly recommend volunteering. I’ve done it three times always by myself and it has been some of the best trips I’ve ever made. If you want any recommendations ever, let me know. There are endless opportunities! Looking forward to reading more of you blog!!

      Reply

    1. Oh….you are so kind!!!!! I feel thrilled as it has been the third time in a month! 🙂 Must be doing something right I guess! Let me think if there is another way to do this so it isn’t just me talking about myself. Maybe a way to turn it around again like my Morning Blogs and Cup of Joe post. Thank you so much! I am so glad I found your blog as I really really love it!!!!!! 🙂 Nicole

      Reply

      1. Such a sweet girl:) I like your suggestion about putting the emphasis on your immunisation campaign – especially as you have the power of three network circles …Go for it Nicole.

    2. I know…maybe I can think of a way to nominate different advocacy/charity related blogs? Anything to help promote Shot@Life and other great ways of helping others. Thank you so much! If I get more views, then more people will learn about Shot@Life!!!! 🙂

      Reply

    1. Thank you so much for this! I am also enjoying your blog as well! I will try to work on this in the next few days! Hoping you can inspire me to do something different in my backyard this summer! Thanks again! 🙂 Nicole

      Reply

  35. I just came across your blog after searching for CCS & Morocco since I plan on volunteering this winter starting Dec 22nd. I really enjoyed what you wrote. I’ll review your posts about Morocco again.

    Did you fundraise or pay out of pocket for your program? I paid the first time I did a program, Salvador, but this time I’m fundraising. I’ve started a blog too trying to get the word out a bit more.

    http://volunteerforgoodblog.wordpress.com/

    Any help you can give with getting my blog out there to more people I would appreciate since I need more sponsors and people to read and view the site.

    Reply

    1. Cool! Have you written about your experience in Salvador? I just had a chance to look briefly at your blog but wasn’t sure. If you have some kind of guest post, I could always run it on my blog. It would be cool to have something about your work in Salvador with CCS. I’d be happy to post it!

      As for raising money, I paid for both programs on my own. However, I’ve done a ton of fundraising for other things such as building a school in Nepal and for global vaccinations. You can find these stories on my blog. Go to bottom of blog, search under “Social Good” or “Hands in Nepal” or “Read Nepal” or go to the PAGES on top for Nepal and “Shot@Life”. Those tell you have I raised money. (Was able to raise $10,000 for Nepal through basic fundraising strategies). I also highly recommend starting a CROWDRISE page. It is awesome and I use it for Shot@Life. You can send updates to your friends on FB or Twitter. It is really helpful. Anyway, if you want to contact me directly go to: thirdeyemom@yahoo.com. Good luck! you’ll love Rabat! Nicole

      Reply

      1. Hi Nicole. I replied back to you using my Hotmail account just so you know in case you may have missed it. I want to get as much help and advice from you as I possibly can.

  37. I came across your blog while looking at another blog. You have an amazing blog and I look forward to receiving your future blogs. I was born and raised in Northern Minnesota on the shores of Lake Superior (Grand Marais was my home town). Thanks for bringing back wonderful memories.
    Maralee
    throughmylens365.wordpress.com

    Reply

      3. I live in Bend, Oregon now. It’s beautiful here too. I’ve been here for about 12 years. Before that I was in Hawaii for 25 years. Moved to Hawaii when I was 21 back in 1974.

    1. Wonderful! I can’t wait to see it Angeline! I have a huge backlog of emails and posts to read but will definitely read it soon! 🙂 Thanks for the kind words. We are all such a great community, us WP bloggers! 🙂

      Reply

    1. Thanks! What do you write about? I briefly glanced at your site and it looks really cool. After some coffee I’ll have to check it out more!!!!! Nicole

      Reply

  43. I lived in Nepal for a year, my wife just happened to be in Nepal at the same time. We did not know that when we were in Nepal and figured it out later. We have tried to travel as much as we can with our kids, Mexico, New Zealand, France, Iceland, Belize and Guatemala and many US states. As the kids get older the trips seem to be around their schedules and not their parents. Nepal holds a special place in my heart and I love to hear others having good experiences in Nepal. I love reading your blog, keep up the good work!

    Reply

    1. Wow, how did you find my blog? How awesome that you spent an entire year in Nepal! I truly want to go back. It also looks like we’ve bee to a lot of similar places on your above list.
      We haven’t brought our kids anywhere exotic yet. Normally it is just me traveling alone or with my dad on our hiking trips. My kids are still young (5 and 7) yet I hope we can take them somewhere really different in a few years. I grew up traveling and it really changed my life. The more I see, the more I want to see and the more I want to help and give back. I know I’ll return to Nepal. 🙂 Thanks for stopping by! Nicole

      Reply

      1. I think everyone should travel more, it gives us all such a better perspective on life. One of our finest memories is Christmas in Mexico. It was a huge parade and carnival and they were tossing out presents left and right. As we walked back to the hotel and passed families sleeping in the streets my oldest daughter who was about 5 at the time handed out all her presents to the families in the street. Totally unsolicited on our part, she just did it and got the point of giving. Now that she is 16 I feel she lost it all! haha
        I found your blog searching for blogs in Minneapolis that had similar interests in mine, travel (your cover picture in Nepal was the give away), kids etc…
        I look forward to reading more blog posts! Slater

      2. Thanks for your comment Slater! Yes I totally agree. If we can afford to bring our kids abroad like my parents did with us, then I truly plan to do so. That is really a wonderful story about your daughter. Maybe it is time to bring her on another trip! 🙂

    1. Why thank you Coreen! That is so kind of you and congratulations on receiving the award on your lovely blog! I did actually do this one before so I’ll let some of your other nominees take over. Thanks so much of thinking of me! I truly appreciate it! 🙂

      Reply

  45. Congratulations, I´ve nominated you for the “Family of Bloggers Award”, to see what is involved check out my blog. If you choose not to accept the award I will not be offended, I just wanted to show how much I enjoy reading your blog and also to say thank you for your support and encouragement! Have a great day,G 🙂

    Reply

  46. Nicole (a/k/a thirdeyemom) — I have nominated you for the “Very Inspiring Blogger” Award. Congratulations! Do not feel obligated to pass it on, but know that you are appreciated! If you want to pay it forward to some of the blogs you appreciate, the “rules” (I like to use the term loosely) of the award are contained in my post: http://travelgardeneat.com/2012/09/30/very-inspiring-blogger-award/ . . . thank you for helping to make the blogosphere a more beautiful place! ~ Kat

    Reply

    1. You are so incredibly kind! Thank you so much! I truly appreciate it and congrats to you as well on receiving the award. I enjoy you blog as well! 🙂 AS for the award, I have done this one before so I will let your other fabulous bloggers join in the fun! Thanks again! Very nice of you to think of me!

      Reply
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  50. Pingback: They are the charming gardens… | The World Is a Book…
  51. Pingback: Honoured to be honoured. « travelling bag

  54. Exactly what you don’t need in your busy life, Nicole, but I couldn’t think of anyone more deserving of this Blog of the Year 2012 award than you.

    Reply
  57. Pingback: 46. The Very Inspiring Blogger Award « Sofie's Diary

    1. Thank you so much! Also congratulations to you! 🙂 I really appreciate it! 🙂 I have already done this award though so I’m going to let some of the others blogs you’ve nominated take over! 🙂 Thanks again for thinking of me!

      Reply

  59. I have nominated you for the Beautiful Blogger Award. I really love your blog. It is such a good read. I look forward to many more great posts to come. Take care

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much! That is very kind of you! I have actually already done this award so I will leave it to the other nominees to shine. Congrats to you on your nomination and thanks again for the kind words! 🙂

      Reply
  61. Pingback: There’s a Diaper Crisis in my Writing Life! (Big Announcement 1) | reinventing the event horizon
  62. Pingback: Many Thanks for the Fun Stuff | The Retiring Sort

  63. Hi there! This is just to let you know that because I enjoy your posts and comments, I’ve nominated you for the Wonderful Team Member Readership Award. I hope you’ll consider this good news – but even if you aren’t interested in accepting, I hope you may see some increased traffic as a result! The acceptance rules are at: http://wp.me/p2ekZU-ZC. All the best!

    Reply

  64. Your blog is awesome. I am a stay at home mom to a 5 month old and I just started blogging about our travels. It feels good to know there are other moms out there working from home and going towards their dream. You are doing good work and I look forward to reading your blog!

    Reply

    1. Cool! Thanks so much! I also write for World Moms Blog, something you may enjoy reading. We are moms from around the world that write about all kinds of things. Where do you live?

      Reply

  65. What a gorgeous photo, linteresting story and blog. I look forward to following you and read more about your travels.
    Greetings from the Far North
    Dina

    Reply

  66. Nicole: I’m a companion “Twin Citian” and invite you to learn more about Global Volunteers….just over the river from you. Sounds like we have parallel values and yearnings. My husband and I co-founded this international service organization 30 years ago. Call or email me! http://www.globalvolunteers.org Or, come visit our offices!

    Reply

    1. Hi there! I actually have gone to one of your presentations before and know a bit about your organization as I’ve volunteered twice with Cross-Cultural Solutions. I would love to volunteer sometime with Global Volunteers as well. It just never fit into my schedule! 🙂 Do you write a blog on Global Volunteers? How did you find mine? Really cool! 🙂
      Nicole

      Reply

  67. Nicole: We have several blogs on our website: http://www.globalvolunteers.org. Our staff and volunteers around the world post daily reflections from their service programs. We’ll be migrating them to WordPress early next year. I believe your blog came up in one of my recent searches….I’ve been traveling so much lately, I don’t recall what I was searching for at the time. Sorry! Michele

    Reply

  68. I’ve nominated you for the Inspiring Blog Award (http://amiramelody.wordpress.com/2012/12/16/inspiring-blog-award/comment-page-1/#comment-162) I believe I’ve commented on this before (good people deserve all the praise they get, though!), but you remind me a lot of my own mother, who taught me the importance of discovering and learning about the unknown and the powerful relationships you can gain through getting out of the “comfort zone.”

    Reply

  73. You are an amazing woman Nicole and I’m still confident that our meeting at the Social Good Conference was for a greater reason than a photo op…. Let’s do a project together soon. 🙂
    Eliz

    Reply

    1. Oh Eliz. What kind words! I think you are inspiring and amazing! I hope we meet again! I’m for sure coming to the SG Summit again as I was so inspired by it. So we will have to make time to spend time together! 🙂

      Reply

  75. I hope we’ll see you & your family when C.R.E.E.R is finally set up; with your French & compassion I think you could really enlighten some trafficked children!

    The door will always be open to you!

    Reply

  77. Hi,
    You have a really nice blog and u have powerful blog name too..I am from India but i had never got a chance to visit Himalayas.I am always longing to travel.You are lucky that you have visited 30 countries.I think it might be a great experience for you to explore different countries culture .Besides that,you are a great mom:)Looking forward to read more of your posts:)

    Reply

    1. Thanks so much for the nice comment! I’m actually headed back to India in May for some social good work and journalism on Indian NGOs primarily in maternal health. I can hardly wait!

      Reply

    1. Wow, thank you so much! I truly appreciate it! 🙂 I have actually already done this award so I’ll let some of the other wonderful bloggers you nominated pass the torch. Very thoughtful of you to think of me. Thanks again! 🙂 Nicole

      Reply

  79. Hi, Nicole! I think I figured it out on the appearance of FB like, pictures for recent posts/popular posts, etc. on my blog posts. These are widgets in my “Sidebar” (Under “Appearance”, then “Widgets”–and drag individual widgets into the Sidebar, on right side of the screen, then make adjustments on how you want each fidget to appear (e.g., cover picture for recent/popular post; show number of FB likes). In mobile view, the sidebar is moved to the bottom of each post. That happened automatically, a specification of my Theme, I think. I hope this makes sense! – Daniya

    This to your question: “When I look at my posts in mobile format it just has the like button, share and comments. But at the end of your posts in my mobile, it has the FB like and then what I like even better is the little pictures that go with each post (recent post, popular post) that you can click on. Maybe it is your theme too? Anyway….if you know that is great but don’t worry if it is hard to figure out. 🙂 Nicole”

    Reply

    1. Thanks! I’ll have to take a look at this soon. I’m off again on Wednesday for another trip! Busy these days but I will get back to this. Thanks so much! 🙂

      Reply
  80. Pingback: Two Times TAGGED!! | Tranquil Dreams

    1. Oh that is so incredibly kind of you! 🙂 I am so glad you like my blog. I have actually already done this award (another thoughtful blogger had nominated me) so I will pass the baton on to all the other wonderful bloggers you nominated. Thanks again! 🙂 Nicole

      Reply

  82. Hello! Lovely that you have traveled so much and your children have the opportunity to experience different cultures. Having traveled and lived many years in India, am always encouraging people (especially Americans) to go and visit different countries…open-up that Third Eye! All the best….namaste….kai

    Reply

    1. Thanks! Yes I am fortunate that I’ve been able to travel so much and I hope to be able to bring the kids along someday too! 🙂 It is so important to open your eyes to the world and not live in a bubble!

      Reply

  83. It’s amazing the way you are teaching your children to live and I passionately believe we can all make a difference in little ways as well. I look forward to reading more of your journeys.

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much! I really appreciate you thinking about me and my blog! I will take a look at this when I get back home as I’m traveling this week in India. Thanks so much again for nominating me! I appreciate it!

      Reply

  86. I’ve been checking out blogs on wordpress to get some ideas on how to start my own. I came across yours and I couldn’t stop myself from reading on! Really awesome stuff! Man, I wish I could find myself a partner like you. Haha! EIther way, thanks for the inspiration and keep up the great work! 🙂

    Reply

  87. Namaste!
    I have been following your blog for quite some time, and I thought I would let you know what an inspiration you are to me. Most recently I have been ‘struck’ by your post “In the Background: Life in a Delhi Slum”. Hopefully someday I might be as brave as you and venture forth from my little corner of the world (central Oklahoma) to explore the world at large!
    These days I am studying New Media Journalism at Full Sail University, and now along with my usual personal blogs I’m developing a blog for school. Your work is an inspiration to me both personally and professionally – thank you so much for sharing your experiences.
    ~Lyann
    http://lyannvaladez.net/

    Reply

    1. Hi Lyann! Sorry for the delay in response but I was traveling again. Thank you so incredibly much for your kind words! I truly appreciate it. I am still trying to come to terms with the India trip. It was truly life changing and I have lots more to share. The more I venture out of my comfort zone, the more I grow as a person. It is scary at first but once I do it, I want to do it again! Good luck with your studies and keep in touch. I just followed you on Twitter so hopefully we can keep in contact! 🙂 nicole

      Reply

      1. Thank you so much for the follow on Twitter – by all means, let’s keep in contact! Thank you for the words of encouragement…I completely agree with your words about venturing out of your comfort zone – it’s scary, but makes us grow and want to do it again!
        🙂 Lyann

  89. “My dream is to teach my children to live compassionately, open-minded lives that understand different cultures and the importance of giving back to those in need.” That is an amazing dream. I am totally with you on this. Also have two children, growing up in a rapidly urbanizing India, privileged children in a sea of need and poverty and chaos. In an environment where greed and over-competitiveness appear to be virtues as our country struggles to ‘develop’ and join the elite club of the ‘developed’. It is a challenge to keep my kids grounded and I enjoy that challenge. Really like your blog and your philosophy….

    Reply

    1. Thanks for the comment! I find it hard to raise kids here in the US being so far away from so much of the world. I can see how in India it is quite difficult as well because you are really like you said in a “seas of need and poverty and chaos”. I guess we do the best we can and try to teach our kids to give back and to care. That is the challenge isn’t it. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂

      Reply

  90. Hi, ive been reading your blog for a few days now and i have to say, you put your words across very well :). Im from Pune, in India, waiting till I can travel around the globe.

    Reply

    1. Thanks! So glad you enjoy! 🙂 I was recently in Delhi doing some social good work. I adore your culture and the food is fantastic as are the people. 🙂

      Reply

      1. Haha, yea all the travelers really love the culture here. Im just so used to it, it amuses me 😛 Also, beautiful pictures of the mountains 🙂 Happy writing

  91. I am definitely a fan of the blog now 🙂 and a firm believer of the third eye as a concept … I am sure you’ve heard or read the origin of the third eye in the Hindu mythology … I am definitely following you 😉

    Reply

  92. You write beautifully! I am a stay-at-home mom with a 11 month boy. I love to travel too, and would love to visit Bueno Aires (Your post was superb!) some day with my family. Thanks for sharing your travel in such details…I feel like I was on the trip with you! Cheers, mrs. J

    Reply

  94. I actually just saw the photo from Delhi, read the first lines and then the about section. I’m already madly in love with your blog!

    Reply

  99. I have just come across your blog and am both moved and impressed. I am currently an American expat living in Hyderabad, India. Our family has taken advantage of our experience abroad to visit other countries, and we try to be “travelers’ rather than tourists as much as possible. Embracing the culture and learning about other people with an open mind is a wonderful thing. If you are interested, I have two blogs: americanhydmom.wordpress.com and wanderlusttravelogue.wordpress.com. I look forward to following your blog, even as you broaden and change it. Thank you for sharing your stories with us! -Deanna

    Reply

    1. Thanks Deanna! I would love to check out your blogs. What is the difference between the two? I will try to pop over there ASAP. How are your children adjusting?

      Reply

      1. Thanks for the response! My Americanhydmom blog focuses on my family’s experiences living in India. As I am sure you encountered in your travels to this country, even routine activities can have an interesting twist, and I wanted to record and share these events with our family and friends. The first year abroad, my eldest son definitely was challenged to adjust. My younger son did much better. Now, all is good for all. We still have periods of culture shock, but overall, are very glad to be here.

        The Wanderlusttravelogue blog is a new one. Like you, I have had an opportunity to travel to some interesting places. I have been a writer for years, but just recently have taken a photography course, which prompted me to want to focus on that area of “communication” more. This blog features my photos, with a brief write-up on the “story behind the photo.”

  100. just had a look at your blog,very inspiring and I too believe anything is possible. Interested to find you come from Minneapolis I have a pen friend from there, we have been writing for nearly 50 years.Look forward to reading more.

    Reply
  101. Pingback: Shine On Award! « Every day adventures in Asia (mostly)
  104. Pingback: Capture the Colour | Where's my backpack?

  107. WOW! I just read your “about” page and that about sums up my first impression of you, WOW! Your amazing! I want to grow up to be just like you. Actually, it’s a little late because I can already see from your lovely photo that you are younger than I am. So, I’ll just have to do my best to catch up to your incredible body of work and accomplishments. I just joined wordpress because of my own passion for traveling with my family. I want to share whatever I can with other families to help them experience the world as we have (just a small part of it so far). I am following your photos and now I’ll be following your posts as well! I already reblogged one, but I’m sure there will be others!

    Reply

    1. Thanks Kerry! What a nice compliment. I have always loved to write and used to write in hardcover journals. After the kids got a little older (I’m a stay at home mom) I wanted to get back to writing again and sharing my passion for travel, culture and giving back. Hence I started this blog. Its been almost three years now and I can’t believe the doors its opened in my life and how much I’ve loved it. Where do you live? Thanks for the support and nice comment! Nicole

      Reply

      1. Nicole, Your welcome. I am also a passionate family traveler; the way my family has gone about our travels abroad has been via international home exchange, and it’s been amazing. We’ve gotten to live like temporary locals for a total of 15 weeks over the last five years. I am such a huge supporter of home exchange, I’ve decided to start writing and blogging about it myself. Just last week I put up my website, and like you said, I can see how much fun it is already! I’ll be talking with you again for sure! Kerry

      2. Wonderful Kerry! I just subscribed and look forward to reading it. I have never thought of doing a home exchange before. Sound alike a great opportunity! I will check out your posts as soon as I can. We are headed out of town today for the holidays! 🙂

  109. Wow. love your posts on Honduras. I am currently in school and planning to major in Spanish and world business. I was wondering if you are happy with what you studied and if you found it to be necessary in your life. I ask because i am so eager to start giving back to the world and am not sure if a BA is going to help or not. Ultimately,my goal is to either work for or run a non profit, helping the families in Honduras learn to become self sufficient. I would like to spend three months per year there in Honduras and the other months here in the states raising money. As i have four kids and am not ready to move them all.Any advise or thought would be appreciated by you or any others who may have an idea.
    Stacey7388@gmail.com.

    Reply

    1. Hi Stacey:

      Thanks for the email. Sorry for not responding sooner but I’ve been on vacation and still am. Big question! Looking back, I’m still glad I followed my dreams of studying french and international relations. But now I don’t really use either. If I did it over again, I would have added either a MA in Journalism or Public Health or Public Admin. Yet I am pretty happy so far with my path as there is so much you can do if your heart desires. Feel free to contact me via email with any more questions. Sounds exciting! thirdeyemom@yahoo.com

      Reply

  110. Thank you for all your visits and comments this past year. I am mostly only interacting on Facebook although I do send out blogs every alternate day – concentrating on my photography a lot. I have sent you a friend request on FB to keep in touch with each others blogs. Regards, Andrew Harvard

    Reply

    1. Thanks Andrew! Do you have a Facebook page or a personal Facebook account? I have both. Thirdeyemom on Facebook is where is do my blog stuff and photos and my personal account is usually just silly photos of my kids. Let
      Me know as if you have a Facebook page I can like it. Otherwise I can accept you as a friend but I’d hate for you to get all my silly updates! Best, Nicole ps I love your photography!

      Reply

  111. So happy to have been introduced to you by James and Terri at Gallivance. Like you my heart is drawn to social justice and a love of travel and other cultures. I look forward to following your adventures!

    Reply

    1. Oh thank you so much! I truly appreciate the award. I am finally catching up on emails and my blog. Thanks again for the wonderful nomination. 🙂

      Reply

  118. Hi, I just discovered your blog and love it. You are inspiring! I have a 2 1/2 year old and haven’t traveled since I was pregnant (other than to see family) and I’m going crazy! How do you travel, have time to write so much, and be an at home mom? I just started my own blog and am trying slowly to get back into my life teaching yoga and writing – but it’s very slow going. And I can’t imagine leaving my son long enough to go on a real trip. How do your kids handle it?

    Reply

    1. Thanks for the comment and I apologize for the late answer. Good question! I have a lot of help with the kids when I travel and a very supportive husband. I’ve done it since they were born so they do fine with me leaving. Of course they miss me but I hope my travels are teaching them something as well! 🙂

      Reply

  119. Hi! I just discovered your blog – my husband & I love to travel, and it’s so encouraging to see others making that happen for themselves – especially those who are parents! Excited to start reading about your adventures : )

    Reply

  120. Being from India, I appreciate your volunteering work in Nepal!
    I read it in one of the nice books that ‘Your life shall be full of happiness and joy when you are happy within!’ What can be better than selfless acts of ‘giving back to those in need’ that fill your heart with love and compassion!
    Wish you best luck for your future endeavor!

    Reply

    1. Thank you! I try to keep it up. Now most of my volunteer work is through my writing about social good issues around the world. I also was in India last May on a tour with different NGOs in the slums and it was really an eye opening experience.

      Reply

  124. Hi, I just looked over your blog – interesting indeed! I’ll be doing some reading here frequently & I enjoy reading your blog…

    Love your photos in Himalaya…!

    Reply

  128. I have to say that the way that you are living and your view on life is very similar to my own and I am glad that I have stumbled across your website.

    Reply

  131. Hi Nicole, Jo at http://restlessjo.wordpress.com recommended your blog to me and I’m glad she did. Somehow the first post I landed on was about the flight to Minnesota you shared with the new immigrant from Somalia – I am hooked! I spent a year as an exchange student in Minnesota many decades ago and it still feels like a second home to me.

    Reply

    1. Thanks Jill! I’m glad you like the blog and that is so kind that Jo (who I adore) recommended it. I will go over and check out yours as well! 🙂

      Reply
  133. Pingback: Scotland? A Fresh Start Or Ripped Apart..? | Steve Says...

  134. I love your blog! It is so informative and well organized. I am new to blogging and have lots to learn… I love what you wrote: “I also believe strongly in viewing the world and other cultures with a “third-eye” meaning with an open heart and mind, and always seeking understanding of the world. If you don’t travel through life and the world with a third eye, what will you see or understand?”
    Open mind and open heart… it can take you places you never dreamed of.

    Reply

  135. Many families from Nepal are settling into the neighborhood of the high school where I teach. I like seeing photographs of their country, I can’t imagine the adjustment they experience when coming to Pittsburgh PA. I’ve always enjoyed following you and your WPC is stellar. Best,
    Ruth in Pittsburgh

    Reply
  136. Pingback: weekly photo challenge: humanity | A Meditative Journey with Saldage
  138. Pingback: Weekly Photography Challenge: Humanity | sukies original

  139. Oh Nicole, such a marvelous surprise you hosting this week photo challenge; good for you, I’m really pleased to participate. In addition, no better choice for the theme; it’s just you. Congratulations!!
    Here my contribution (though I’m linking to one of my oldest post, I find it appropriate for the theme). Hope you (and the rest of the community) enjoy it!
    http://myphotolanguage.wordpress.com/2013/05/29/zu-in-homage-to-makandal-theatry-company/

    Reply
  140. Pingback: Weekly Photo Challenge: Humanity | Please…don't move!
  142. Pingback: Philanthropy Friday: Social Good Summit 2014 Recap

  143. I love your blog. Its give an inspiration where I want to travel next and what to show and teach to my children. I travel mostly in Europe with my two child.

    Reply

  144. Hi
    Excellent blog; Your life rocks and the messages are compelling and inspiring. If I had it to do over I would try something similar to your background (well, maybe not the kids). But now that my 30 wasted years in a cubicle are over my wife and I hope to spend the second half enjoying travel. I’m also from Brooklyn and worked in WTC # 5 through 1986 but haven’t yet seen the museum. Thanks for an awesome post My blog is new and you are exactly the kind of blogger I search out as I try to build my audience. If you could check us out at http://www.experimentalexpats.com I’d be honored to have you as a follower.
    Thanks and keep up the great work
    Rob and Diane

    Reply

    1. Hi Rob and Diane! Thanks so much for the amazing comment. You made me smile! I’ve spent my time in an office too and it was hard. I’m just a free spirit so I’m fortunate that I’m able to follow my passion from home and also be able to raise the kids. I would love to follow your blog. I think what you are doing is awesome! Of course I will check it out and follow! I’ve been doing the blog for almost four years and have made some wonderful friends. Check out the comments on some of my posts and I bet you will find a lot of new friends to follow. There are a lot of people I follow who are expats such as Rewind and Retired, Zeebra Designs, and my dear friend LuAnn! check them out! I bet you can join in the fun with the community. Also, it is great to do the Friday WordPress Weekly Photo Challenges. I’ve made lots of great friends and followers from that. Subscribing now!

      Reply

  145. About the camera and lens you mentioned the other day. I have a couple suggestions…
    1. I carry lighter camera and lens (like canon eos rebel, under 1 pd) when I take a long trip.
    2. use the heavier camera and marco lens for the short trip taking pics of flowers, weeds, and other macro shots
    3. use CNET Insider to learn about cameras and lens.
    4. use youtube to learn about using the camera and lens.
    5. there are many macro lenses, I have one is 135mm and the other 300mm. I’m still leaning about the 30mm to get better shots.
    Hope this helps.

    Reply

    1. Thanks so much for this Amy! My struggles are that a lot of times I’m either hiking or in a poor country where bringing anything large and/or expensive is hard. I would love to however learn how to take better shots and know a better camera with lens would be a good idea. I’ll see if somehow I can eventually start investing in better equipment. I love the tips! Thanks!

      Reply

      1. Great!! I think rebel is a good start, later you can upgrade to 6d or 7d if you want to shoot motion, animals, birds… pics. I carry rebel to travel. 🙂

  146. It’s cool you live in Minneapolis! I live in a suburb of the Twin Cities and I am definitely going to be reading your future posts. I am interested in traveling and-even though I am in high school- I have traveled many places around the United States and have been out of the country a few times… 🙂

    Reply

    1. Thanks! That is wonderful! It is sure cold here now but I do love the beautiful lakes here in the Twin Cities and the nature. We are very lucky to have this all!

      Reply

  149. I went digging back into some of your older posts and saw that we have SO many hikes in common! In your top 5 list, I’ve done 1-4, and I just last week wrote up the Paine Circuit hike. I see that you stayed at Eco-Camp (which I loved – so cozy amidst all that Patagonian wind!). I could go on and on, but since comments on those old trips are closed, I won’t swamp your About section!

    Reply

      1. I live in Chicago (I saw you’ve spent time here, too) and teach at a bilingual college. I travel during semester and summer breaks, and my favorite type of travel is a good long hike, preferably in very high mountains! I squeeze in other trips as well, and our family has done a number of mission-type trips overseas. I have even traveled with a microfinance organization to help lead trips for potential donors (that’s the Ruth-Anne connection). Your travels and social good interests line up squarely with mine, so I look forward to continuing to see your posts!

      2. Cool! Yes I lived in Chicago for five years, got married there and then moved here. I love Chicago and still have tons of friends and family there. Great city!

  150. This is a really inspiring, vibrant blog – you travel so much!

    I am in my twenties and write a blog on news, views, London, culture – The SIgnorina (www.thesignoria.com)

    I hope you have a chance to pop in.

    I have never been to America but travelled Europe thoroughly, namely France and Italy where I lived for four months at a time (I’m not fluent in both languages.) I now live my my Italian boyfriend and he often inspires my blog as we are so different – he can be so hilerious.

    ie: http://thesignorina.com/2014/12/14/10-reasons-you-know-you-live-with-an-italian/

    Anyway, lovely to have found you!

    Reply

    1. Thanks so much for the comment and sorry for the delay in responding. I am glad you like my blog! I will be sure to pop over to yours and check it out. Thanks for letting me know about it! 🙂

      Reply

  151. With your established and no doubt well-honored blog, you probably do not want or need any more award nominations! I was pretty excited to get one myself, however, since my blog is still in its infancy, and I listed your blog as one of my favorites as part of my post. Please feel free to ignore the assignment, and just know how much I love your work!

    Reply

    1. Oh you are so sweet! I really appreciate you thinking of my blog! Congrats on the award! I enjoy reading your blog too! 🙂 and look forward to future posts! 🙂 Happy Holidays!

      Reply

  152. Hello thirdeyemom, it is such a pleasure to meet you. Your wonderful blog is a reflection of a wonderful person. I am in awe of your view of life and the way you walk the walk. I agree the only way to travel is with the third eye – open mind and open heart. As I travel the world intentionally homeless I haven’t yet been able to get past focusing on filling the world with as much positive energy as I can as a way to give back. It is something I suppose, and I trust the movement of the Mystery.
    Thank you so much for choosing to follow our blog. I am honoured. I hope you enjoy the stories of our journey, both inner and outer.
    I wish for you and your family a wonderful holiday season and a joyous new year.
    Blessings,
    Alison
    PS We *loved* Bolivia. We were not there for long but it was a great highlight of our travels around South America.

    Reply

    1. Thanks Alison! I found your blog through an award you were given by a fellow blogger. I’m so excited to follow your blog! 🙂 I am glad you found my third eye to be interesting! I try my best to keep this philosophy in traveling and in life! 🙂 Happy New Year!!!

      Reply
  156. Pingback: What?! 4 Years Already? (ANNOUNCEMENTS) | Tranquil Dreams

  158. Just now clockin’ in on your beautiful blog! Actually, just now clockin’ in on blogging in general, as well as instagramming, tweeting, and other forms of insto-communicato beyond rotary telephones and 4-channel TVs. Out to prove that old dogs can actually learn new tricks. Thanks for a neat place to virtually root around in!

    Reply

  159. Nicole, I’m inviting you to take part in the 5-Day Black and White Photo Challenge. No real rules except to do five days (not necessarily consecutive) of a B&W photo and, if you like, nominate a person each day to participate. If you’re too busy or not interested, I completely understand, but I’ve been having fun with it. Have a marvelous week.

    janet

    Reply

    1. You are so kind Janet! What are the rules? I think I will do it on my other photo blog the thirdeyeworld if that is ok. That blog usually only features one picture while this one is for more photos and commentary. Since I’m in jury duty all week and next time is limited too. Please advise on what the topics for each day are and I’ll begin. I’m honored as you are quite the photographer!

      Reply
  160. Pingback: Philanthropy Friday: ONE Launches #PovertyIsSexist Campaign to improve the lives of women worldwide

  161. Phew! I had to scroll so much to finally put in a word of appreciation for your blog. Really liked a couple of your posts especially the one on La Jolla. It remains one of the best beaches I have been to.

    Reply

    1. Thanks so much Prunella! I hope the information I sent you was helpful! I would love to visit Perth by the way. I’ve heard it is beautiful.

      Reply

  163. I just found your site and I’m loving it. I don’t know if you’re still checking this comment section, but your photos are amazing. I am also trying to incorporate the same philosophies as I raise my own kids and it’s lovely to be able to read this blog.

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much for the comment! I’m glad you enjoy the blog! I stated it 4.5 years ago and am still running strong. It is very fun and rewarding. 🙂

      Reply

  167. Your page is very inspiring ! I enjoy your posts! You, along with many travelers could utilize our new and upcoming app, POI. It’s for the travelers and the locals to post their points of interest!

    I’d like to start a movement. To inspire people to live and see more of the world. POI’s purpose is to create a community and world awareness -where the focus is the world’s point’s of interest. It becomes a shared goal to explore and exploit the world’s POI!

    I’d appreciate to hear your feedback. Let me know if this is something you’d like to updated on – upcoming release and details on the app!

    Let me know your thoughts!

    Thanks,
    The POI Movement

    Reply

      1. Beautiful pics! Btw, those purple/blue flowers you thought might be Lupine are Grape Hyacinth 🙂

  168. Pingback: Freshly Seen at Jill’s Scene in January – Jill's Scene

  171. Hello – I found your photos from a newsletter I get about Nicaragua for expats. I’ve spent a lot of time there – but I noticed you have visited Cuba and wanted to go back? I take photography tours there – Americans can come (I had 7 last trip) and we do the home stays in casas and lots of local special stuff! http://www.digitalphotomentor.com/cuba if you’re interested, we haven’t set 2017 dates yet.

    Reply

  172. Ich bin per Zufall über Jo auf deinen Blog gestossen. Wow, tolle Reiseberichte. Ich bereiste als Rucksacktourist den Nahen und Mittleren Osten im Jahre 1964/1965 und war auch in Nepal.
    Ernst

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  173. I’m so happy to have found your blog! Your travel journey is truly inspirational. Your photography – exceptional. I loved the post on hikes and Iceland. Look forward to virtually travelling with you on your journey to some of the most fascinating places in the world!
    Cheryl

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  174. I can’t believe I never commented here! so here I am now. and now that I know what you look like I’ll be sure to say hello should I see you about our twin cities(I live in Roseville). I followed your blog a while ago but it looks like you’ve added more to this “about” page since I last visited. I’m in awe of all your experiences! And now I know the meaning behind Prince’s three lenses glasses. I have learned SO MUCH more about him since he died. I’m a little older than you so I didn’t grow up with his music but still, his death has affected me immensely. I was a bit more torn up about Bowie because I grew up in the 70s when there was always a Bowie song on the radio…..as I said on your Prince post, still not quite over that one 🙁 May they both rest in peace. They’re probably jamming in heaven together 🙂

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    1. Thanks for commenting Toby! I live in SW Minneapolis so not far away. I was born in 1971 so also loved Bowie too. Thanks for the lovely comment! 😊

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  175. I’m truly so pleased that I found your lovely blog today. What an inspiring place. I feel humbled to have spent some time finding out more about all the wonderful things you do.

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  179. Pingback: About – Nehal's World

  180. Love your blog, so glad I came across it! I’m inspired by all the travel and experience you have had. I look forward to reading more and catching up on old posts too. – Maegan

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  181. Really enjoyed your post on the four-day Inca Trail hike. My brother and I did it in February of 2000 and so much of what you said really, really rang true. Those four days were a life-changer. Well done! All the best from Toronto.
    Adam Hay

    Reply

    1. Thanks Adam! That was my very first multi day hike ever. I loved it and it inspired me to do many more longer hikes all over the place with Nepal and Kilimanjaro being the two best. It is addicting! 😌

      Reply
  182. Pingback: On the Road zài lù shàng 在路上 – Chinese Corner with Min

  184. Hi! I am living in Xela, Guatemala for 4 weeks and I have been going to La Pedrera. It was cool to see your picture. The kids are precious and I am happy to help them with homework and I teach English to them. …and yes, I am getting used to walking up the hill. I just wanted to say hi!

    Reply

    1. Wonderful May and thanks for the note! I loved it there. I learned so much too at the spanish learning school. I also loved climbing Santa Rosa. Have you been? Enjoy!

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  185. I just found your blog and am so happy I did! I love that you not only want to experience the world but also want to do what you can to improve it. I’m looking forward to reading more posts!

    Reply

    1. Thank you so much Erin! It is my way of giving back! I have been doing the blog for over six years now and it is a labor of love. I try to always seek out ways to give back along the way too and like to share them here. thanks for stopping by! 🙂 Nicole

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  186. Love this site. This is exactly what I want to do with my new online store. (Sell gifts that keep giving) I just need a great product(s). Do you know how I can find a distributor of the Fair Trade Org or other means to help? I just need to be pointed in the right direction.

    Reply

  187. Hi – I am the director of a nonprofit called Brighter Brains Institute – http://brighterbrains.org – we work in Africa, and we’d like to work in Haiti. Can you connect us to any women’s group in Jacmel? One problem – we only work with secular partners, not religious partners. Thanks in advance for your help

    Reply

    1. Thanks! I got this from a National Geographic book of quotes with photos and have seen it in many other places online. Looks like many people get it incorrect! I will definitely change it.

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      1. Yes, many people who post on the Internet take things unquestioningly from other websites. I’m surprised that a National Geographic book would have gotten it wrong. One thing that makes me doubt a quotation’s attribution is when it appears time after time after time with just the name of the supposed source and never any further information, like the book or speech or letter that it appeared in.

      2. I just paged through the four NG books with photos and quotes and this quote was not there. So I was mistaken! When I began the blog, I usually sourced all my quotes from these NG books because I used to use quotes with lots of my photos. I must have gotten this one instead from a website. Thanks again for bringing this to my attention! I’m so glad you told me. 🙂

      3. I generally rely on books because they have (or at least used to have) tighter editing than websites, some of which apparently have no quality control at all. One good website that may interest you is Quote Investigator

        https://quoteinvestigator.com/

        which delves into the origins of quotations that are disputed or whose author is unknown.

      4. Thanks so much for this information! I appreciate it and will definitely use this site.

  189. Please advise me regarding travel in Haiti. Arriving in Cap Haitian in November. Flying out of Port-au-Prince. I am a 75 and solo female traveler. Fly or hire driver between cities? Thanks

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    1. Thanks for the email Judy! I would definitely fly and not drive. The roads are terrible and it took forever to get there. There was nowhere to stop to get food or use the toilet either. Flying is your best bet.

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  190. Thanks for your recommendation. That is what my non-traveling husband says, too. Just out of curiosity is your recommendation based on my age or that I am traveling alone? I hate flying and love road trips so I am a little disappointed but will heed your advice. Thank you again.

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    1. I have traveled all over the place and have done lots of horrible roads in Africa and Central America however this road was in very bad conditions and it took hours to get there. It was bumpy, filled with potholes and really unpleasant so it is not based at all on age but on comfort. It is a pretty drive. I guess if you don’t mind very rough roads, no where to use the bathroom for eight hours or eat, then you could do it. But I personally would not want to do it again. It was pretty hard. Also, safety as a single woman traveling alone is an issue too. I was with a group of people and two were Haitian. I would not have felt comfortable traveling alone.

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      1. I would very much like to see what you are up to right now. I hope, you can contact me somehow. Are you still travelling a lot? What is it like now in your home country?

        I was born in Berlin in 1934. In 1959 my husband and I had the chance to emigrate to Australia with our two baby daughters. We never regretted the move. Both my husband and I did quite a bit of travelling during the time that we were together, which was some 64 years! 🙂

        Greetings from the Illawarra in NSW, Australia! 🙂

        🙂 Uta Hannemann – AuntyUta

  191. Hello,
    We’re interested in advertising on thirdeyemom.com
    Can you please direct me to the best person to speak to about this?

    Thanks!
    Max

    Reply

    1. Sorry for the delay in responding. I don’t advertise and I have been taking a little break from my blog. thanks for asking!

      Reply

    1. Thanks! I’ve been at awhile now…11 years! Not writing as much as I used to on the blog but enjoying keeping it up. 🙂

      Reply

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