My name is Addyson and I’m from Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. I’m 16 years old and currently on my way to graduating from high school. My sister did Northern Youth Abroad when she was my age and told me I should do it as well. This is a picture one of the NYA staff took while me and my buddy saying goodbye to our friend. She was going on a bus to the airport, and this was the last time we saw her before she left for her host family. We’re all looking forward to sharing stories once we get back for Re-Orientation in a few weeks.

I got to Kingston on June 20th. The squirrels here are MASSIVE compared to the ones back home, and they’re a little scary. I work at Martha’s Table, which is a community food center that offers food and supplies to people who may have little to no access otherwise. My favourite part of working at Martha’s Table is that I get to eat lunch there everyday and get to know the regulars. 

In Kingston I’m staying with my host mom Erin and her dog Arlo. My favourite thing about Arlo must be his annoying younger brother vibe. Me and my host buddy have been going out to the movie theater and watching scary movies. Something I am really looking forward to is getting my new ear piercing next month. I also really like the other people I’ve met through NYA, they are cool beans.

This is Erin’s dog Arlo. He is like an annoying younger brother. He steals food and even my lotion! He barges into my room all the time for cuddles. He’s  annoying, but I love him. I’ve even taken him for walks.