I traveled from LA to Haneda Japan and it was a life changing experience. The US has certain customs that we expect and know as second nature. Things that we grew up with that are ingrained in us for our culture. Then we arrive in a foreign land, don’t speak much of the language and have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Japanese culture. Known for deep respect, minimalism, and tidiness ( HELLO Mari Kondo.. I’m a huge fan!) it’s easy to see what Americans love the Japanese culture, food, and people…

I woke up to a beautiful morning and a message on Facebook saying, "My name is Ashley Washburn and I have spent the last week with the JacksGap team in Tanzania. I noticed we share a few friends...read more 

Here is my Skype student outside her summer cabin practicing her violin. These are one of the islands between Sweden and Norway, so we decided to start counting in Swedish instead of English for Minuet 1 by J.S. Bach.