Hi, I'm Lauren, and thank you for visiting my bio. ​My mission is to make a positive impact in the lives of others by combining my passions, experiences and strengths. Each of my experiences has helped shaped me into who I am today. Life is all about finding balance and being able to appreciate the beautiful lessons and growth that comes from the challenging times. 

 

I believe that no matter what life throws at you, it is 100% possible to overcome challenges. One thing I've learned is that life can be unpredictable, and the only thing certain is change. Learning how to adapt has really allowed me to approach change with confidence, even when the situation is not perfect. 

​"Wabi Sabi", as the Japanese call it, is the concept that embraces the beauty of imperfection, and I love this!

 

I have been able to find peace and joy in my hobbies, passions and support system. I started playing competitive volleyball in eighth grade and have loved traveling all over the US for tournaments. Having an amazing team of friends has taught me how to work with different personalities and appreciate everyone's unique strengths. As an athlete, a positive mindset is so important. I was introduced to mediation and mindset coaching during my junior season, and it really helped me - I intentionally chose to incorporate this wellness technique into Bits & Peaces because I have personally experienced the benefits.  Physical activity and mindfulness help me to stay focused and healthy.

 

Giving back to my community is very important to me. When I was eight years old, I visited Ride On Therapeutic, an equine therapy facility in Newbury Park, CA. I learned that as a non-profit, the organization depended on donors and volunteers to operate. I decided to start a fundraiser with a goal of sponsoring my favorite horse for a month. My friends and I made and sold over 200 friendship bracelets during recess and donated a giant envelope of cash to the barn. I was so proud of our hard work and have never forgotten the amazing feeling of giving back. You're never too young to embrace your passions and make a difference! 

Since 7th grade I have spent a lot of my spare time volunteering with many different philanthropies through National Charity League. I've had the opportunity to work with all sorts of amazing organizations, make lifelong friends, and develop my leadership skills. I plan to continue my philanthropic work and supporting charitable organizations for the rest of my life. 

 

The human-animal connection has had such a positive impact on my mental health. My love for pets led me to start a dog-walking & pet-sitting business. It's a win-win; I'm able to spend more time with amazing pets and get extra exercise. I love how excited the dogs get when I pick them up for walks! One time I was pet-sitting and fell asleep in a dog bed curled up next to a sweet pup! I have two dogs of my own, Stetson (aka "the favorite child") & Marley. Growing up I dreamed of being a veterinarian, so naturally I had a lot of interesting pets over the years! I had a cat named Jilly Boo Bones (named after one of my favorite childhood books, Skippy Jon Jones), a chinchilla named Coco, a tree frog named Boots, and a bearded dragon named Petals. There's a good reason my mom named our WIFI network "The Zoo", but if it were up to me, we would have lots more pets! One of my favorite memories is when my friend found two abandoned baby ducks and I convinced my mom to let me keep them for them for a few days until I could find them a permanent home. A week turned into a month (oops!), and they turned out to be chickens (good thing I decided not be become a veterinarian!) I was probably the only teenager in Southern California living with two baby chicks in my bedroom (in a cage, of course). I was finally able to re-home them to a friend-of-a-friend at local barn where they quickly adjusted to farm life. 

 

​My goal is to get a bachelor's degree in communications/marketing, and I believe that if I combine my passions I will be able to make a positive impact on others while fulfilling my dreams!​​

​

Sincerely,

​

Lauren Sommers

​