I got this hot air balloon keychain from a souvenir shop in Cappadocia, Turkey. Although it may seem small and insignificant, I hold it dear to my heart because I lived in Turkey for two years and it’s a big part of my life. Cappadocia was not the city I lived in, but I visited it and it was one of the best, most beautiful experiences of my life. I got the keychain as a souvenir because I knew I would be leaving Turkey permanently soon. I like the bright colors and different patterns, as I feel each side of the keychain represents a different side of me, as-well as my experiences and challenges. I think the brightness is nice because although I may seem to be quiet, I think I'm a very loud and bright person on the inside. Hot air balloons represent adventure, freedom, and the ability to rise up against challenges which I feel is exactly what I felt and experienced while I was in Turkey. I want people to see this keychain and learn about a part of my life. Identity to me is made up of how you present yourself, what your life is like, and your experiences, and I think this little keychain represents that very well.

– TJ

Relationship:  Child of im/migrant Child of im/migrant