Life of the Lost

Dear Maya, oooooft. It's been a busy few weeks, but I'm getting back on track. I've had to activate all my support systems recently, and I'm so grateful for everyone in my life. I know one day you'll have a wonderful set of friends and family who you can lean on in any situation. You are never alone in this world, and you are so loved!

Dear Maya, Pour your emotions into your craft - let them create something beautiful.

Dear Maya, I forgot to tell you that life is not linear.

Dear Maya, Sometimes, it feels like the whole world is against you, but when you stick to your gut, you can't go wrong. Let others fall into their accountability—we can't make them see through our lens. But we can be there for them when they finally dust off their glasses and see clearly.

Dear Maya, check in with yourself (intuition), look for the clues, and make a decision. Sometimes it's ok to make it that simple.

Dear Maya, back for part 2! We usually don't make changes out of the blue. Most times, it is a situation or event that creates change. Don't forget your 'why' and always stay true to self.

Dear Maya, once you've answered the questions in the audio, what can you do to follow through?

Dear Maya, It's been 3 days since this recording and I'm in my anger phase. He took the first "swing" and I should have taken mine. Nevertheless, I'm grateful that I was unharmed and I'm safe. Key takeaways include: The importance of situational awareness How training creates crucial muscle memory Processing trauma through creative outlets The power of community support in healing

Dear Maya, as we grow older, our perspectives often shift from black-and-white to shades of gray. The key is to have patience and grace for those going through challenges that have gray areas. Not every decision can be acted on right away.

Dear Maya, there is a delicate art to building lasting relationships. Key takeaways: -Finding partners who align with your values -Recognizing and setting healthy boundaries -Dealing with bullying and personal insecurities -Embracing life's lessons, even the uncomfortable ones -The power of mature emotional communication

Dear Maya, it takes courage to change.

Dear Maya, despite the uncertainty and chaos, the best thing we can do is to be kind, grateful, and supportive of one another. I hope you're reading this 5 years from now. There is hope on the horizon.

Dear Maya, creating can be as complex or simple, as you make it. Be open to different modes of creative expression. When you feel like you're boxed in, find what feels fluid. Keep exploring - keep creating. Love, Annie

Dear Maya, you might look back at these recordings and think everything I say is complete bullshit and I'll respect that. You get to deem what a mother means to you and rewrite your story every day; not everyone, including me, deserves to be in it - I recognize being part of your life is earned not given. Moment by moment I'll work towards fulfilling the responsibilities of motherhood. It will com...

Dear Maya, the world will sometimes feel heavy on your shoulders, but in those moments, you must move. If you can't pick an option start with a 2-mile run. Keep your mind and heart open to all the goodness you'll find during the run. Be playful and put on some happy music (but please don't listen to it so loudly...be aware of your surroundings lol). Feelings are temporary little Gumbie - this will...

Dear Maya, as you approach your 10th birthday, I'm reminded of the bittersweet moments of watching you grow. I feel a lot of nostalgia as I navigate the challenges of your emerging independence and emotions.

Dear Maya, walk with me and listen to a few conclusions I came to after running and taking a class. Remember, not every time will our emotions and feelings make sense. Every dream doesn't need to be transcribed but it doesn't hurt to tap in with yourself and listen.

Dear Maya, you got this.

Dear Maya, one year, my grandma was staying at a rehabilitation facility around Christmas time and I went to visit her. I lucked out - that very day an Elvis impersonator was singing in the cafeteria for all the residents. Grandma sat in a wheel chair watching Elvis with stars in her eyes. For a moment I saw her pain fade into happiness. It felt like heaven was shining a spotlight on both of my gr...

A short and sweet reminder to be kind to yourself. If we pause for a moment before we attack ourselves maybe we can create a better environment for ourselves to grow. It feels selfish at first and there will be growing pains but it's important to check in with yourself. Reprioritize yourself. <3

Self-discovery is the key to growth—embracing who you are and who you can become. Add a dash of imagination and a pinch of ambition to fuel your journey. And remember, it’s alright to start fresh and reinvent yourself.

When it comes to assessing progress and growth focus on people's actions rather than their words. Critiques can be difficult, but we have to find the willingness to listen and learn to grow WITH the ones around us.

We all face challenges in life, but it's how we respond that truly matters. I've been so inspired by the resilience, courage, and emotional openness of YOU. I'm so lucky I get to be your Annie.

Dear Maya, I find no joy in being "right" when trying to help loved ones. Often the conversation leads to a stalemate rather than productive change. I do recognize transformation is a gradual process and I do believe we all have the willingness to grow - sometimes we just need to find our 'why'.

BE FREE, you don't need permission to do what is best for you.