If there’s one place in the world, besides the enchanting island of Kauai, Hawaii, that I yearn to visit first, it would undoubtedly be Scotland. From a young age, my fascination with Scottish culture was kindled by attending the Celtic festival in Arizona with my sister. This annual event was more than just a celebration; it was a gateway to a world steeped in tradition and history, igniting a lifelong dream to explore the rugged beauty of Scotland.
The allure of Scotland is undeniable. The thought of wandering through the majestic Highlands, with their rolling hills and mist-covered landscapes, fills me with a sense of adventure and wonder. I am eager to delve into the art of whiskey-making, to understand the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into creating Scotland’s renowned spirits. The rich tapestry of Scottish history, folklore, poetry, and literature beckons me to immerse myself in its depths, to walk in the footsteps of legendary figures like Robert the Bruce, who has long been one of my favorite historical icons.
Sam Heughan, the actor known for his role in “Outlander,” often speaks of Scotland’s magnetic charm, and I couldn’t agree more. There is something about this land that captivates the imagination and draws people from all corners of the globe, including America, to dream of visiting and perhaps even making it their home. The simplicity of life in Scotland, where one can connect with nature, explore new horizons, and embark on a journey of self-discovery, is a powerful allure.
In Scotland, I envision a place where I can find peace and clarity, away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It is a land where the past and present coexist harmoniously, offering a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. As I dream of this journey, I hold onto the hope that one day I will set foot on Scottish soil, ready to embrace all that this remarkable country has to offer.
To me, what makes a person truly unique is a blend of qualities that shine through in how they live, create, and connect with the world. It’s about being authentic, pouring heart and soul into what they do, showing kindness that uplifts others, cherishing the beauty of nature, and embracing creativity in all its forms. These traits make someone stand out—not just for what they achieve, but for how they make the world feel brighter and more connected. Sam Heughan, for example, embodies these qualities in a way that inspires me deeply.
First, authenticity is at the core of uniqueness. A person who is unapologetically themselves, who shares their true heart without pretense, feels like a rare gem. Sam Heughan’s genuineness, whether he’s bringing emotional depth to Jamie Fraser in Outlander or sharing candid moments with fans, shows how powerful it is to stay true to who you are. His ability to convey raw, heartfelt emotion—on screen or in interviews—makes him stand out as someone who lives authentically, inspiring me to value people who aren’t afraid to show their real selves, flaws and all.
Dedication is another quality that sets someone apart. I admire people who throw themselves into their passions with hard work and perseverance, even when it’s tough. Sam’s commitment to his craft—learning Gaelic, mastering sword fighting, or building My Peak Challenge to inspire fitness and charity—shows a drive that goes beyond the spotlight. It’s not just about talent; it’s about the grit to keep learning and growing. That kind of dedication makes a person unique because it reflects a deep love for what they do, and it pushes me to seek out those who chase their dreams with relentless effort.
Kindness is what makes someone’s uniqueness truly meaningful. A person who lifts others up, who connects with warmth and empathy, leaves a lasting impact. Sam’s kindness—signing autographs in the rain for fans or using his platform to support causes—shows how a generous heart can create a ripple effect. To me, uniqueness isn’t just about standing out; it’s about making others feel seen and valued, building a community through compassion and care.
A love for nature’s beauty also makes someone special to me. People who notice the small wonders—like the intricate patterns of a leaf or the quiet majesty of a sunset—carry a spark that feels almost magical. Sam’s reflections on Scotland’s rugged landscapes, like in his book Waypoints, resonate with me because they show a soul that finds inspiration in the world’s beauty. I’m drawn to those who see and celebrate these details, who let nature fuel their creativity and ground their spirit, just as I do when I’m captivated by something as simple as a frog in a rose.
Finally, creative versatility is what makes a person’s uniqueness shine. I admire those who weave together different talents to tell stories or create something new. Sam’s ability to act, produce, write, and even launch his Sassenach Spirits brand shows how embracing multiple passions can create something extraordinary. It’s not about being perfect in one thing but about exploring creativity in all its forms, blending skills to express a unique vision. That kind of versatility inspires me to see uniqueness in those who dare to combine their gifts in unexpected ways.
To me, a person like Sam Heughan is unique because he lives with authenticity, works with unwavering dedication, spreads kindness, cherishes nature’s beauty, and embraces a versatile creative spirit. These qualities make someone not just stand out, but connect, inspire, and leave the world a little brighter. They’re the traits I look for in others and strive to embody myself, because uniqueness isn’t just about being different—it’s about living with heart and purpose.
Well, let’s take a look at my work experience so far. My only job has been in retail. I started as a custodial associate at Fry’s. After that, I worked as a courtesy clerk and cashier at Safeway. Then, I became a kids’ toy, lawn, and garden associate at Walmart, and I’m currently working in that role. It’s definitely a physically demanding job, and that’s why I want to find something I enjoy, like visual storytelling, to make a living from.
I enjoy spending my free time gardening, taking photographs, hiking, and engaging in other activities. However, I sometimes feel that the places we work for expect us to live there half the time, leaving less time for our families and self-care.
I want to pursue a career as a Visual Storyteller because it’s the perfect intersection of my passions for photography, graphic design, and blogging—a path that lets me capture the world’s beauty, create with purpose, and connect with others in a way that feels deeply authentic. This career isn’t just a job; it’s a calling to weave together visuals and words to inspire, uplift, and build a community grounded in kindness and creativity. It’s about seeing the world through a lens of wonder and sharing that vision to make others feel something real.
Photography, to me, is like capturing a heartbeat. Whether it’s the delicate shimmer of a tiny frog nestled in a rose, the fleeting glow of a sunset over a quiet valley, or the unguarded smile of someone lost in a moment, photography lets me freeze time and hold onto what makes life extraordinary. It’s not just about technical skill—though I love mastering my camera and editing tools like Lightroom—it’s about noticing the small, fleeting details that others might overlook. As a Visual Storyteller, I want my photographs to evoke emotion, to remind people of the beauty in the everyday, and to spark a sense of connection to the world around them.
Graphic design is where my imagination takes flight. It’s the thrill of transforming an idea into a visual that pops—a logo that captures a brand’s soul, a social media post that stops someone mid-scroll, or a poster that tells a story at a glance. I’m drawn to the challenge of blending colors, typography, and textures in tools like Adobe Illustrator or Canva to create something that’s both beautiful and meaningful. It’s hard work, requiring precision and endless tweaking, but that process feels like a puzzle I was born to solve. As a Visual Storyteller, design is my way of giving ideas a voice, making the intangible feel vivid and alive.
Blogging is the thread that ties my creativity together, letting me share my heart and mind with the world. It’s where I can write about the story behind a photoshoot, the inspiration for a design, or a moment in nature that left me in awe—like the way a single leaf can hold a universe of patterns. Blogging isn’t just about words; it’s about building a space where people feel seen and inspired. I want to share tips, stories, and reflections that resonate with others who crave authenticity, whether they’re creatives, dreamers, or just people who love beauty as much as I do. As a Visual Storyteller, my blog will be a canvas for connection, a place to foster a community that values kindness, creativity, and the courage to chase what sets your soul on fire.
This career speaks to me because it demands both heart and hustle, qualities I admire in myself and others. It’s not about chasing glamour—it’s about the grit of learning new editing techniques at midnight, the patience of revising a design until it’s just right, or the vulnerability of sharing a personal story on my blog. I’m inspired by people like Sam Heughan, who pour authenticity and hard work into their craft, and I want to bring that same dedication to my work. As a Visual Storyteller, I see a future where my photos, designs, and words create a ripple effect—encouraging others to notice the beauty around them, to create with intention, and to connect with kindness.
Ultimately, I want to build a career that’s a reflection of who I am: someone who finds joy in the small moments, who believes in the power of creativity to uplift, and who wants to leave the world a little brighter. As a Visual Storyteller, I’ll weave together photography, graphic design, and blogging to tell stories that matter—to me, to my audience, and to the world.
I wanted to share a bit about how I experience emotions because it shapes who I am. My happiness is often found in the quiet, unnoticed moments – it’s not just about laughter but about cherishing the beauty in simplicity. When I feel sadness, it’s not merely sorrow; it’s a reflective state that deepens my empathy and connection with others. Anger for me is rare, but when it arises, it’s a passionate response to injustice or the need for change.
My emotions are layered, each adding depth to my interactions, making me a compassionate listener and a thoughtful friend. This emotional nuance is a core part of my identity. #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfReflection #Understanding
1.I hope I find a partner who dreams of having a similar deep emotional connected relationship similar to Jamie and Claire’s in Outlander. One who loves being adventurous as well as living a healthy and fitful lifestyle which I so need and that kind of motivation would encourage me to live that as well.
Also a desire to help others that really need it and spread kindness and compassion and love around the world.Something that I want to incorporate as well with my photography and graphic design elements along with making stories and poems.
It would also mean a lot to me if that special guy would find my mind to be interesting and see it as being beautiful rather than a burden.Even though I am mildly autistic I am also independent and confident but at the same time I love being with my better half.
2.That I would have a chance to get my graphic design degree and do something with it and I hope for someone who knows how to be an entrepreneur because I want to learn how to do something that not only I can enjoy making a living from but to use my passions to help people around the world.
3.I want to support my special person in his endeavors even if his career may be busy. that’s so Important to both people.
I hope someday I can meet my Favorite Creative Muse Sam Heughan….You know I never had anytime to do anything spontaneous and fun like going to his events and that’s usually because I can never afford it and time seems to be something I never have. I am amazed that I was able to get a week off from June 21st to the 27th but half of the week I have to get things done and the other half of the week I was going to try to do something fun but don’t know what yet.
I have graduated from SNHU with my bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and no one to celebrate that with along with my birthday. But I guess that will wait till vacation time and probably take my dog with me on a picnic and watch the sun set or something.
But they are dreams and at least I have something to dream about. Not sure if they will ever come true. My mom told me I deserve the best in life and in my soul I know I do because I don’t know what it is like to deserve the best.
Aging is often portrayed as a countdown—a signal to scale back dreams and accept limits. But I see it differently, inspired by Sam, who said, “I feel lucky to be getting older. The fact that I made it to 30 and then 40 was big enough. So I can’t get too down on getting older; otherwise, it kind of undoes everything I’ve fought for” (People, 2024). As a woman with mild autism, I’ve navigated a world that doesn’t always fit me, and I’ve learned that starting anew isn’t about age—it’s about hope, courage, and embracing the fight to live fully, even when fears linger.
Living with autism means facing challenges that often go unseen. Social interactions feel like decoding a cryptic code, sensory overload can turn a simple day into a storm, and society’s milestones—career, love, family—seem just out of reach. For eight years, I poured myself into a relationship that left me feeling small. My partner’s dismissive looks made me feel like an inconvenience, not cherished. When it ended a year ago, I was left wondering: will a man ever see my autism as a strength, not a flaw? Will I find someone who shares my dream of a family, who prioritizes my health as much as I do theirs?
That fear deepens when I think about motherhood. I know women in their 40s can still have children, even if it’s riskier—it’s not impossible, and that fuels my hope. If biology doesn’t align, adoption is a beautiful path; so many children need a loving home, and I could offer that. Yet, there’s an ache for carrying a child, shaped by a miscarriage I had years ago. I would have named her Faith if she’d been a girl—a name I chose before watching Outlander and finding solace in Claire’s shared grief. Knowing I’m not alone in that pain makes it a little lighter.
My physically demanding job adds another weight. I’m proud of my work ethic, but it drains me, leaving little room for self-care. Sleepless nights and exhaustion make relaxation feel impossible, and my passions—writing, creating, living adventurously—get pushed aside to survive. It’s a hard truth, wondering if I’ll ever have space to chase what lights me up or find a partner who truly sees me.
But I’m ready to change that. Inspired by Sam’s My Peak Challenge, a global movement to encourage physical and mental wellness through community and goal-setting (My Peak Challenge, 2025), I’ve committed to my own “peak challenge” to prioritize my health and live more boldly. One fear I’m grappling with is my phobia of heights. Some heights I can handle—a low balcony or a gentle hill—but others, like cliffs or tall towers, make my heart race. I’m not sure I’ll ever fully get over this fear, and that uncertainty weighs on me. Still, I don’t want to be boring—to myself or others. I want to feel the thrill of a new view, to live adventurously. Overcoming a phobia as an autistic woman, with heightened sensory sensitivities, is daunting, but small steps could help. Exposure therapy, such as watching videos of high places, standing on manageable heights, or trying virtual reality to ease into it safely, is a proven approach (American Psychological Association, 2023). A therapist who understands autism could guide me through sensory overload and anxiety, tailoring the process to my needs (Autism Speaks, 2024). Each step, even if I never fully conquer the fear, is a victory, proving I can push beyond my comfort zone.
Autism has taught me resilience—a mind that catches details others miss, a heart that feels deeply, a persistence that keeps me going. Like Sam, I’m learning to see aging as a privilege, a chance to fight for what matters. I deserve a life where my passions thrive, where rest isn’t a luxury, where I can chase adventure without fear of judgment. I deserve a partner who sees my autism as a gift, who wants a family as much as I do, who values my well-being. Starting something new feels overwhelming when you’re exhausted and doubting, but every step counts—whether it’s joining My Peak Challenge workouts, writing for an hour, testing a manageable height, or believing love and motherhood are possible.
To anyone feeling stuck or unseen: your struggles don’t define your worth, and your age doesn’t limit your potential. As an autistic woman, I know how hard it is to carve out space in a world that doesn’t always fit. But I’m holding onto hope that things will change for the better. Every day is a chance to start again—to pursue a passion, prioritize your health, face a fear (even if it never fully fades), or believe in a love that lifts you up. My autism isn’t a barrier; it’s a lens that helps me see what matters. I’m still writing my story, holding onto hope for a family—whether through birth or adoption—and for a partner who sees me as I am. Aging isn’t a deadline; it’s a doorway. And through it lies the chance to live adventurously, to love deeply, to become. No matter how many times I’ve stumbled, I know one thing: it’s never too late to start something new.
The hum of the world fades as I sit in the quiet of the car, the Kia emblem on the steering wheel a silent witness to this sacred moment. In my hand, the emerald ring gleams, its heart-shaped center a deep, vibrant green, like the first breath of spring in a Highland meadow. Small emeralds and diamonds, delicate as dewdrops, line the slender band, each stone a tiny star that catches the light and holds it close. My stepmother gave me this ring, a gift for my birthday yet to dawn and for my college graduation, a triumph carved from sleepless nights and steadfast will. I trace its edges, feeling the cool metal against my skin, the heart-shaped emerald steady as a heartbeat, and I know its place. With a breath as solemn as a vow spoken under ancient oaks, I slide it onto my wedding finger—not for another, but for me. A promise, fierce as a Fraser’s oath, to hold myself close, to honor the fire that burns within.
This emerald, my birthstone, is more than a jewel. Its heart shape is a mirror to my own, green as the quiet forests I imagine when the world grows too loud. Its depth soothes me, a color that drowns out the chaos—the buzz of fluorescent lights, the clamor of voices that tangle in my mind. I press my thumb to its surface, smooth and cool, and it’s like touching a still lake, ancient and unyielding, whispering that I belong to something vast. The smaller emeralds along the band hum in harmony, a rhythm I can feel, while the diamonds sparkle like moments of clarity—sharp, radiant, fleeting, but enough to light my way. Together, they are my anchor, my strength, a testament to the battles fought to claim my degree and the woman I am becoming.
This ring, given for my birthday and my graduation, carries the weight of both. The heart-shaped emerald is my refuge, grounding me through the nights when words wouldn’t come, when the weight of expectations pressed too hard. The tiny emeralds and diamonds are the victories—each step forward, each moment of understanding, each quiet pride as I crossed the stage to take my diploma. To wear it on my wedding finger is to swear an oath to myself, as binding as Claire’s vow to Jamie under a sky of endless stars. It’s a promise to cherish the way I feel the world—deeply, fiercely, in colors and textures others might not see. The emerald’s green hums against my skin, a steady rhythm I can trust when the world spins too fast. It says, You are enough. It says, Your heart is a diamond, your spirit an emerald, and no one can take that from you. I feel the weight of that vow, warm and heavy, like a hand clasped in mine across time—a love letter to myself, written in stone and light.
In the car’s quiet, the ring catches the light, its heart glowing, the diamonds winking like stars. When the noise of life presses in—when voices overlap or the hum of the engine feels too much—I touch the emerald, its cool green steadying me like a deep breath. The smaller stones along the band remind me of the small joys—the sound of rain on the windshield, the softness of a familiar scarf, the pride of holding my degree. This ring is my standing stone, my portal to myself, grounding me in a world that often feels too bright, too loud. Like Jamie, swearing his life to Claire, I swear to protect the spark within me, to nurture the dreams that flicker like starlight, to be my own refuge until the day I choose to share this vow with another.
In the quiet of my heart, where the emerald’s green sings and the diamonds’ fire dances, I am home. This ring, this vow, is my truth: I am enough. It is my graduation, my birthday, my promise to carry this truth like a flame, fierce and unyielding, through every storm, every mile, every beat of my heart.
If I had one gift to give to someone like Sam Heughan, it would be two framed photos I took of a whimsical frog peeking out from behind a delicate rose petal and even a side shot of him doing that. This image captures a moment of unexpected beauty, where nature’s charm reveals itself in the most delightful way.
The frog, with its curious gaze, embodies the importance of finding joy in life’s small wonders. Just like this little creature nestled among the petals, we can discover magic in the simplest moments, even when life feels heavy. The rose, with its soft colors and intricate layers, symbolizes resilience—the beauty that can emerge from our struggles, much like the journeys we all face.
Sam’s own whimsical nature resonates deeply with this photo. He has a unique gift for bringing joy and lightness to his roles, often portraying characters that inspire us to embrace our quirks and find laughter in the everyday. His playful spirit reminds me that life isn’t just about the grand moments; it’s about appreciating the delightful surprises that come our way, no matter how small.
In Outlander, even amidst the trials and tribulations that Jamie Fraser endures, there are always comforting moments that shine through. One of the most touching and emotional scenes for me is when Jamie keeps track of Claire’s courses and becomes emotional about a part of him remaining with her as he feels her stomach. I remember bursting into tears during that moment, feeling the depth of his love and commitment. It made me reflect on my own heart and soul, asking when I might find someone who loves me with that same intensity and devotion. Even now, just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes, and I can’t help but feel how impressionable I am as a 40-year-old woman navigating life as someone on the high functioning end of the autism spectrum disorder.
As a fan, I often find it difficult to attend Sam’s events or meet him in person, especially with the way my life has been lately. The challenges I face make it hard to carve out that time or budget for such experiences. Yet, I hold onto the hope that this whimsical frog, sneaking a look of contentment, might somehow reach him.
I don’t fully understand why Sam inspires me so much and fills me with joy, but perhaps it’s a reminder from God to focus on the things I’ve forgotten about. The story of Outlander holds so much meaning for me; it feels tangible and real, resonating with my own experiences and emotions. It reminds me of the power of love, resilience, and connection. Outlander will never fade away as long as we keep the love story alive with each other. But I constantly am always wanting to find ways to appreciate Sam for who he is and not just as an actor….my heart just has this thing of want someone especially him to know that someone see’s him truly. I also enjoy sharing my feeling and thoughts with those who adore this beautiful ray of Sunshine as well.
This photo serves as a gentle reminder to pause, appreciate, and find delight in the hidden gems around us. It reflects the spirit of creativity and wonder that Sam embodies in his work, inspiring others to seek out their own moments of whimsy and joy. This gift would not just be a piece of art; it would be a heartfelt invitation to cherish life’s fleeting, beautiful moments—much like the joy Sam brings to his fans and the characters he portrays.
In sharing this with him, I hope to convey that even in the midst of life’s chaos, there is always beauty to be found. Often, it’s in the simplest things that we discover the most profound joy, and I believe that’s a message worth sharing. I hope somehow he gets this special gift somewhere.
Deep Thinking 