Temporary Relief Part 3

And we're back with some more nonsense. Enjoy :)

..........

1. What's the best stress reliever you know?

Being near animals (preferably ones that love you) or listening to Potterless :)

2. What's the happiest song ever written?

Three Little Birds by Bob Marley. It's also the saddest song I know.

3. If you were guaranteed to be 20% happier, could you give up TV forever?

I mean, I haven't watched cable since I was probably around nine years old but if you're referring to all the Netflix and Hulu and Amazon and HBO series that exist in the world, hell no, I would never give those up. Art is my life source. I don't care how much happier I could be without it.

4. Would you rather deal with a problem head-on or avoid it forever?

Uhhhhhh you know me and my conflicts... If I could make them disappear with no real consequences, that'd be pretty neat.

5. Do you spend more time socializing through the computer or in the company of friends?

The thing is I'm blessed enough to have friends all over the world so I may not always be in the same immediate area as them. Whenever I am able to be in their physical company though, of course I would take advantage of that. It would be foolish of me not to.

6. Do you worry more about the little or the big things?

It's the little things that become big things more often than not, no?

7. Is the richest person you know significantly happier than you?

Lmao probably. The things good healthcare can get you, I'm just sayin'...

8. What's the best music to exercise with?

Oooo great question. I tend to pull out my Latin dance remixes, those never fail. But I guess one could never go wrong with a good Dua Lipa or Ariana Grande jam.

9. Are you an open book?

Annoyingly, yes.

10. What were three of your favorite moments today?

Booping Phoenix on the nose, buying Platanitos at TJ Maxx, and watching Schitt's Creek with Natasha.

11. What's a great memory you have of a stranger giving you assistance?

When I was fourteen years old, I was stalked, harassed and verbally assaulted by a grown man while on a flight, and then later through the connecting airport. Since I was an unaccompanied minor, an employee was assigned to watch over me as I made my connecting flight. This beautiful, warm, angel of a Jamaican woman saw to it that the man was taken away by security and proceeded to hug me close to her chest, wiping away my tears as I shook with the fear from it all. Most of the attacks made were about my identity and the lady took my face in both her hands to tell me no one will ever have the right to tell me who I am—only I define that. It has stuck with me ever since.

12. What smell reminds you of childhood?

Nesquick chocolate milk, sizzling garlic and onions, and saltwater air.

13. Are you willing to ask for help when you need it?

I'd like to think I'm better about that now.

14. Where would you volunteer if you had a free day tomorrow?

Ideally, there are so many places I'd love to give a helping hand to. Realistically, my current option would probably be an animal shelter <3

15. What was the most creative time of your life?

Every time I never wanted to see the light of day again.

16. How much energy do you spend seeking appreciation versus giving it?

I'm hoping it's an even split but quite honestly, I love praise whoops ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

17. What's the most persuasive outside influence on your life?

Cooler weather. Seriously.

18. Do you ever feel guilty for being happy?

All the time.

19. What's your favorite daydream?

A happy, healthy, stable life void of excess suffering.

20. What was the best vacation you ever took?

Ireland, babeyyyyy!!!

21. Who's the most optimistic person you know?

My Abuelo. He's seen it all and he still chooses love and life every time.

22. What's the best way you've found to deal with criticism?

Taking a step back to reflect on the source and where it might be coming from.

23. How do you unnecessarily spend money?

On anything that smells good, ever lol

24. What do you know that can be happy in any situation?

Ice cream doesn't fix everything, but it certainly makes things better.

25. Who has the most beautiful smile in the world?

My dad :)

..........

Just a few things to keep the unpleasantries at bay.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

Temporary Relief Part 2

Morning, darlings. I hope you are all staying well and taking care of your wonderful selves. The past week has been... eventful, for lack of a better word. No better time to commence the brain-numbing than through the second section of the conversation card questions.

..........

1. Do you ever eat lunch outside?

I assume this means when I'm at school/work? If the weather allows, for sure, but not when too many bugs are around *yuck*

2. Have you seen your work suffer when you're unhappy?

All. The. Time. Mood swings and performance correlations are no joke.

3. When you think about getting older do you imagine being happy?

I want to. I hope so. Every day I try to work toward creating the life I always wanted and never had. So we'll see.

4. Do you have certain foods that make you happier?

DO I? Strawberries & cream, Capri Suns, pickles, carrots with lime, extra buttery popcorn, anything Entenmman's, refried bean burritos, strawberry banana smoothies, Abuelo's baked ziti, salted mangoes, RICE, tomatoes with lime, tostones, Deece ice cream concoctions, arepitas, kiwis, concón, Quaker Oats dinosaur oatmeal, queso frito, sourdough bread, salted lime, cucumbers with lime, salami, Abuelo's dulce de coco, Abuela's ensalada de repollo, empanadas, banana bread muffins, Papi's pasta bolognese, Mami's fried eggs (jokes cuz that's like the only thing she can cook lol), and a million other things. Moral of the story is I'm kind of super into food :)

5. Where's the most unlikely place you've made a friend?

A bathroom lol

6. What would you love to grow?

Literally? Some freaking basil plants, man. Figuratively, probably patience and the ability to say no.

7. If you could get rid of a daily noise from something what would it be?

Not fully sure what this question is going for but I'm gonna say the stupid "Caw-Caw!!! Caw-Caw!!!"'s from the ravens in our backyard every morning. Like, they start at 6am, dude. The audacity.

8. Whose marriage would you like to emulate?

My late Titi Dorianny and her husband Tio John's, for sure. They were oh so in love and brought out the absolute best in each other. They went on adventures, they had dance parties, they pursued art projects together, they cooked together, they laughed together, they held each other up through everything until the very end. I have never known any other people who loved like that. What they had was for sure a once-in-a-lifetime kind of thing.

9. Are you happier when your life has structure or with total freedom?

Sooooooo the thing is I suck at maintaining structure for myself??? Like, I know that I tend to thrive off of routines (when I'm able to stick with them) but on the other hand, I find some of my happiest moments to be the most spontaneous and unscheduled ones.

10. Do you have higher standards for yourself or other people?

5 million percent higher for myself, it's infuriating.

11. How happy are your genes?

Uhhhh is this a question about my DNA? If so, I legitimately couldn't answer your question. I have no idea lmao

12. When do you feel most independent?

When I accomplish adult-y things, like bank errands or grocery shopping or folding laundry or making uncomfy phonecalls with even more adult-y people or cooking for myself and others or deep cleaning an entire room. Just things like that. I don't love doing those things, but when I do get them done I feel like an accomplished human.

13. Would you rather have children that are successful or happy?

I consider happiness to be the greatest success :)

14. Why do so many beautiful people seem so miserable?

Can't relate so I couldn't tell you hahaahahaaaa otherwise idk, society man ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

15. What do you worry about in the middle of the night?

Oh buddy, you don't wanna know... But mostly embarrassing shit I did in the third grade that I will never live down. Rip.

16. Is Disneyland really the happiest place on earth?

Can confirm it's not even in the top twelve happiest places on earth.

17. What are the small daily things that give you pleasure?

The way my cats purr to get out of scoldings because they know they can get away with it; a warm mug of tea held between my hands; the dust particles dancing in rays of sunshine; my cats' little toe beans; showering after feeling gross all day; flinging my bra across the room for fun (hehe); watching my cats nap; sleeping on freshly laundered sheets; texting my very best friends that I love them.

18. What's your favorite dream about your future?

I am alive. I am healthy. I am free of all debts. I'm an accomplished occupational therapist for children. I have a spouse who adores me and kids who are never afraid to ask me things. I live in some quiet, easy suburb, away from city chaos. We have two cats and a dog whom we love very much. My life is no longer a mess. I find joy in being awake. 

19. Have you ever gone on a news fast?

As a Highly Sensitive Person (it's a real thing, look it up lol), I literally cannot handle vast amounts of overwhelming content for prolonged periods of time lest I wanna plummet headfirst into a mental breakdown. So, news fasts are kind of typical for me. I require more charging time than others, so frequent breaks are needed. Tis simply my lot in life ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

20. Why do we spend our time doing things we know won't make us happy?

Free will, bro. Idk.

21. When's the last time you took a big risk?

I think a lot of the risks I end up taking in life are purely coincidental or accidental XD But on a more serious note, I guess when I re-applied to college after two years. There was no guarantee I'd get in, and applying to college once is draining enough, let alone doing it twice. I'm really glad it ended up working out :)

22. What are your greatest pleasures?

Bad romcoms, fuzzy socks, naps in the arms of a love, fried food, car karaoke with the best of friends, spontaneous adventures, long showers, Pinterest boards, having my hair played with, the warmth of a fire when the rest of the world is freezing, praise, the smell of grass in the morning, talking to the moon.

23. If you were going to begin dancing regularly what kind would you do?

100% would love to get back into hip-hop and jazz *heart eyes*

24. When you want to laugh, what or who do you turn to?

Potterless Podcast, old vine compilations, jokes written by kids, and when all else fails, Evan lmao <3

25. Is it harder to forgive yourself or others?

Ehhh I'd say it's a solid 60/40 split, with an edge towards me. Forgiving oneself is not easy work.

..........

And there you have it. Arbitrary answers to questions nobody asked or cared for :) You're welcome.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

Temporary Relief Part 1

Hi friends.

I haven't been able to bring myself to write in quite some time. Due to everything going on in the world (and in my own life), it just didn't seem right. For a number of reasons, I've found it quite difficult to do anything for myself, even writing on this blog. The thought of doing anything for myself in light of recent events has only riddled me with guilt because it leaves me feeling empty, like I'm not doing enough, like I'm not contributing enough and I shouldn't spend time on myself when there are more pressing matters at hand. And while part of me still feels that way, I've realized how important it is to take care of myself and to do things for myself even in the midst of all this chaos and tragedy—because if I don't, there will be none of me left to fight. So if that means writing easy, mindless puff pieces in addition to signing petitions and donating where I can and re-educating myself on issues of systemic racism, then so be it (and I encourage you all to do the same! if you are able to attend protests, please do so safely!)

Anyway.

I discovered some "conversation starter cards" in my living room a while ago (courtesy of Natasha lol) and thought I'd give them a go. Since there are quite a few questions, I thought I'd split them into a couple different posts so as not to overwhelm you or myself :)

1. Would you choose to be 20% better-looking if it made you 20% less happy?

Probably not. I already have low-enough days... I don't need them to be any lower lol

2. Do your morals ever get in the way of your happiness?

Oh, definitely. Not often, but there are times where the easier, immoral option is the quickest road to happiness and yet I have to stop myself if I feel like keeping my integrity.

3. What quote do you live by?

Rest in Distress.

-Evan Rubenzahl

Lmao jk I have a handful. But the one I tend to come back to over and over again is "Have courage and be kind." Who knew Cinderella would have the answers on how to live my life ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ 

4. Is happiness over-rated?

Absolutely not.

5. What made each of your past pets special?

Oh boy, there were quite a few so I dunno if I'll be able to remember them all! There were the cannibal snails; the rescued baby bird;  Roger the Hamster named after the iconic Mr. Rogers; Gato and Bachi, my parents' first set of cats; the mysteriously disappearing frogs; Sandy the Prize Turtle who we thought was a boy but was actually a girl; probably several fish that have vanished from memory; Bernie & Phyllis, my precious sassy old rescue kitties; Suki the peanut chihuahua-terrier, who is the love of my life but such an old little woman now; Nutella the warm, adorable slobbery bulldog pup; and finally, Phoenix & Scout, my current demonically playful, astonishingly needy (and loud) kittens adopted from South Salem, New York.

6. Do you think it's easier to be happy when you don't have as many choices?

It can be. Ignorance is bliss and all that jazz.

7. Are you letting any of your gifts go to waste?

I mean, I hope not. I'm assuming gifts here means "natural talents" or something like that? Each of my "talent" inclinations has always fallen in the artistic realm but I haven't necessarily had the means to pursue them as in-depth as I'd like. Dance/voice/music lessons are not cheap, my dudes. I know I have skills there, I just need to figure out how to harness them fully.

8. Which bad habits could you cut out that would help you sleep better?

I'm not even gonna go there. Insomnia can go fuck itself.

9. What do you sometimes take for granted?

Probably my friends' kindness. They are too good to me and I do not deserve them <3

10. What is contributing a surprising amount of happiness to your life these days?

Not all that surprising, but Phoenix & Scout have stolen my entire heart and can get away with probably anything if they nuzzle me hard enough.

11. Have you ever tried to regularly take quiet time for yourself?

As an introvert, it's sorta hard to exist without it.

12. How often do you make a to-do list?

Ohmygod, every day.

13. What's the hardest thing for you to resist?

Persuasion.

14. What would you like to give up thinking about?

Student loans hahahaahhahahahahhaaaaaa

15. Which of your commitments is the hardest to keep?

I'm not entirely sure what this means but I guess anything school-related stresses me out the most and therefore I end up brushing things off until the last possible minute.

16. If you could wave a magic wand and one thing in your life would be checked off your to-do list what would you pick?

Any homework, ever. I love school and I love learning yall, but completing assignments? Not my area.

17. Do you accept what can't be changed?

Not always. I want to, though.

18. How can you be happier than you are right now?

If I could stick to a routine. I mean actually, really truly stick to a healthy routine to the point where it becomes second nature. But unfortunately, not much of my life has allowed for it.

19. Which locations are on your bucket list?

Colombia, Peru, El Salvador, Venezuela, Brazil, Chile, Cuba, Mexico, Scotland, The Netherlands, Portugal, France, Greece, Italy, Austria, Vietnam, Japan, Thailand, Australia, Nepal, China, The Philippines, Egypt, Lebanon, Nigeria, South Korea, Singapore, Bangladesh, Belgium, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark, Iceland... Man, the list could go on.

20. What are the three most important qualities you look for in a partner?

Compassion, humor & reliability.

21. What's the difference between pleasure and happiness?

I like to think of pleasure as a short-lived, immediate thing whereas happiness is more of a long-term, all-encompassing thing. 

22. Which area of your life needs the most organization?

My sleep schedule, holy shit.

23. Are you ever surprised by your own behavior?

Rarely. Usually, the surprise stems from the shock of my own self-restraint. I tend to be very impulsive when it comes to my emotions and the actions that follow them, so if I'm able to fight off some impulsive instincts, it's no small thing.

24. Who's the most surprisingly happy person you know?

All the ones I can think of are children, so... I dunno what that says about the adult world.

25. Do you have unnecessarily impossible standards?

For myself? Absolutely 100%. For others, not particularly.

..........

And there you have the first 25 questions, folks. If anything, I hope this brought some vague sense of levity to your own life before you go out and fight for change in this world (go do it! we need you!)

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

Perhaps the First Good Year

Once again, I'm the worst. To be fair, though, this time I didn't have internet on the day it was meant to be posted sooooo.......... Pretend this was posted on December 31st lmao XD

You won't even believe it but this year was the beginning of good news. Good news! For me! That hasn't happened for me in years, and that is not an exaggeration. Anyhow, this post was a lot more fun to write this time because it wasn't the same old depressing bullshit. At least for the most part.

1. What did you do in 2019 that you'd never done before?

Hmm, I'm trying to remember... Oh right. I FINISHED MY FIRST EVER FULL SEMESTER OF COLLEGE!!! FUCK YEAH!!! I also became a waitress for the first time, got fired for the first time (from that same job lol), became a dogwalker and a babysitter simultaneously, initiated my first ever breakup (that's huge for me, I've never been the one to initiate the split), I learned how to cartwheel, how to change a tire, I had my first ever successful hookup, I stood up to men who thought they could get away with treating me condescendingly and coercively, I performed in community theatre for the first time, I adopted KITTIES!, I became the primary caretaker/financial supporter in my household for a period of time, I experienced hunger, I overcame said hunger along with a bunch of other challenges and now I am here :)

2. Did you keep your New Years Resolutions and will you make more for next year?

I think I remember saying all I wanted for myself was self-compassion. It wasn't always easy but dear God, I think I finally am starting to get the hang of it. Next year, I want to continue on that track but also try to develop some more healthy day-to-day routines. Nothing should be more of a priority than my health.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

My cousin Alex and his wife Chelsea had their first child together, Xander, and he's the cutest little nugget there ever was. Also, WE ADOPTED TWO INSANELY CRAZY AND ADORABLE CATS AND I'M OVER THE MOON ABOUT IT.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Mike Meads was in the year below me and even though I'd never been close to him, his death was unexpected and tragic and hurt many lives. Then Mary Oliver, Luke Perry, and Cameron Boyce, other untimely tragedies that shook my soul more than I thought they would. It was also the first anniversary of Titi's death. That was hard.

5. What countries did you visit?

US and DR, baby. I'm a predictable bitch.

6. What would you like to have in 2020 that you lacked in 2019?

I think just more financial security and the ability to find consistent routines that work for me.

7. What dates from 2019 will remain etched upon your memory and why?

January 5th. Send in college apps.
January 6th. YD goes to Rome.
January 22nd. First day waitressing.
February 9th. Visit Evan and Linnea <3
February 11th. First (initiated) breakup.
February 14th. Margaritowlville!
February 16th. Freaky Friday.
February 23rd. Meet Noah!
March 6th. Last teen year.
March 9th. Into the Spiderverse.
March 17th. Doña Flor y Sus Dos Maridos.
April 1st. Vassar says yes!
April 5th. NEWSIES.
April 11th. First time getting fired :/
April 20th. Dogsit for Shea.
April 24th. Hadestown <3
April 25th. Change a tire.
May 5th. Seussical.
May 10th. Les Mis.
May 18th. Nat's Dance Recital!
May 26th. Babies' graduation!
May 27th. Brunch Reunion w/ Fonts, Claire & Clara.
June 8th. Minigolf with CJ, NJ + Matt.
June 14th. WIFE!!!
June 21st. Whose Live Is It Anyway w/ The Martins.
June 30. Pride with Kota.
July 6th. RIP Cameron Boyce <3
July 12th. Spiderman: Far From Home.
July 30th. Marshland Conservancy.
August 6th. Kitty Adoption Day!
August 22nd. Vassar Round 2.
August 30th. Titi <3
September 15th. Owl Sing-Ins!
October 10th. Still.
October 11th. The Flick.
October 31st. O'Hysteria.
November 13th. Summertime/Wintertime.
November 22nd. Safe Hands.
November 23rd. Nina.
December 4th. Fun Home.
December 12th. Owls Final Concert.
December 14th. Beats Final Concert.
December 19th. Beats Suite Christmas.
December 20th. Return to the island.
December 21st. The Big Chop.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

I somehow managed to make myself my number 1 priority. It didn't always work and there definitely were times where I had to put my family first but at least I didn't fall into the trap of needing a companion to get me through it all. I was there to get me through it all. I was capable and strong and determined and I was enough.

9. What was your biggest failure?

I don't really like to think of anything as a failure because from our mistakes, we learn. I would have liked to continue and get through my Fundamentals of Music class, but ultimately I made the right decision in withdrawing. It was sucking up all my energy and time and was wrecking my mental health so I'm glad I let it go.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Oh goodness, my immune system has never been the strongest and after working so closely with kids so often, you pick up all their gross little germs. Needless to say, I was pretty consistently sick for about half of this year. Finished the year off with a month and a half long bout of bronchitis :)

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Tickets to Hadestown. Wouldn't have traded them for the world.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

My usual go-to's, Linnea and Evan—I seriously don't know what I'd do without them; my cousin Natasha who is the older sister I never had; Papi for breaking the cycle that had been eating at him for the past five years; and my lovely roommate Jessica, who made coming back to school the most fun ever.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled?

So many people in power. It's nauseating, really.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Groceries, rent, medical bills. That's what life as a real adult is like.

15. What did you get really, really excited about?

Seeing Hadestown with my dad as our joint birthday present :) Performing Newsies with a cast of unbelievably amazing people. Adopting two precious kitties <3 Rejoining the path of college education. Getting to sing with my Night Owls once more. Watching professional-grade theatre for free because my college's drama department slaps. The new Dominican food place down the street from my dorm.

16. What song(s) will always remind you of 2019?

Señorita by Camila Cabello & Shawn Mendes
Old Town Road by Lil Nas X
I BEEN BORN AGAIN by BROCKHAMPTON
bad guy by Billie Eilish
7 rings by Ariana Grande
Sucker by Jonas Brothers
Lights Up by Harry Styles
Dancing With a Stranger by Sam Smith ft Normani
Circles by Post Malone
If I Can't Have You by Shawn Mendes
Dance Monkey by Tones and I
Juice by Lizzo
bury a friend by Billie Eilish
break up with your girlfriend, im bored by Ariana Grande
DDU-DU DDU-DU by BLACKPINK
Beautiful People by Ed Sheeran
Watermelon Sugar by Harry Styles
Cool by Jonas Brothers
BOY BYE by BROCKHAMPTON
Tempo by Lizzo ft Missy Elliot
Movement by Hozier
2 by H.E.R.
Greedy by Ariana Grande
Earth by Lil Dicky
Nightmare by Halsey
Kill This Love by BLACKPINK
Con Calma by Daddy Yankee
Back Pocket by Vulfpeck
365 by Zedd ft Katy Perry
Boys by Lizzo
bloodline by Ariana Grande
Exactly How I Feel by Lizzo ft Gucci Mane
Grow As We Go by Ben Platt
NO HALO by BROCKHAMPTON
i'm so tired by Lauv ft Troye Sivan
Truth Hurts by Lizzo
Funky Duck by Vulfpeck
MONOPOLY by Ariana Grande ft Victoria Monét
Mount Everest by Labrinth
Level Up by Ciara
Go DJ by KAYTRANADA ft SiR
The Box by Roddy Rich
thank u, next by Ariana Grande
Down Bad by Dreamville ft JID, J. Cole, EARTHGANG, Young Nudy
Need It by KAYTRANADA ft Masego
Solita by Kali Uchis
Fred Astaire by Jukebox The Ghost
Que Calor by Major Lazer ft J Balvin & El Alfa
All For Us by Labrinth ft Zendaya
Narcos by Migos
MALAMENTE by ROSALIA
151 Rum by JID
Hold Up by Beyoncé
Stop Your Crying by Lake Street Drive
Trampoline by SHAED ft ZAYN
River by Leon Bridges
i love you by Billie Eilish
Obsessed by Mariah Carey
Hey DJ by CNCO ft Yandel
Undrunk by FLETCHER
Teeth by 5 Seconds of Summer
hot girl bummer by blackbear
16 shots by Steffon Don
Lalala by Y2K, bbno$
Callaita by Bad Bunny ft Tainy
Don't Call Me Angel by Ariana Grande, Miley Cyrus ft Lana del Rey
California Dreamin' by The Mamas & The Papas
Jailbreak the Tesla by Injury Reserve by Aminé
I THINK by Tyler, The Creator
715 Creeks by Bon Iver
Good Kisser by Lake Street Drive
My Type by Saweetie
Jesus Is The One (I Got Depression) by Zack Fox, Kenny Beats

17. Compared to this time last year, are you: (a) happier or sadder? (b) thinner or fatter? (c) richer or poorer?

(a) Definitely happier. Without a doubt.
(b) Probably fatter lol Gaining muscle is exhausting.
(c) I think richer but it certainly doesn't feel like it what with all the adulting.

18. What do you wish you had done more of?

Enjoying the moment. Feeling confident in my abilities. Writing.

19. What do you wish you had done less of?

It may come as no surprise to you but worrying. It's time-consuming and unnecessary. Things work out in the end, not always the way we want them to but they do.

20. How did you spend Christmas?

Uneventfully at my mom's apartment in DR surrounded by my fam.

21. Did you fall in love in 2019?

I'd like to say I learned how to fall in love with myself.

22. What was your favorite TV program?

Where do I even start? Here are the ones that come to mind:

Dead to Me
Derry Girls
Scrubs
Riverdale
Friends (I watched all 10 seasons in about three weeks oops)
Euphoria
Barry
His Dark Materials
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
Queer Eye
Stranger Things (duh)
The Act
Schitt's Creek

23. Do you hate someone now that you didn't hate this time last year?

Ooooooof sometimes men as a whole make me real mad. I'll just leave that there.

24. What was the best book you read?

I'm forgetting which books I read this year and which I read last year so I'm hoping these are accurate? I think it was a pretty good year for reading :)

Beautiful Broken Things
My Heart and Other Black Holes
Zac & Mia
Reincarnation Blues
Prince Charming
The Sun is Also A Star
Milk & Honey
Rainbow in the Cloud
Gmorning Gnight
Real Women Have Curves
Make Your Home Among Strangers
The Farming of Bones
Where the Crawdads Sing
The Sun & Her Flowers

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?

Ben Platt's Sing Me To Sleep
KATRANADA's BUBBA
Harry Styles's Fine Line
Ariana Grande's thank u, next
BROCKHAMPTON's GINGER
Fun Home Soundtrack
Hadestown Soundtrack
Vanara the Musical Soundtrack

26. What did you want and get?

A speck of stability which I didn't ever think I'd get in the next few years.

27. What did you want and not get?

Inner family peace but we're working on it.

28. What was your favorite film of the year?

As always, there is never one single answer:

Avengers: Endgame
Joker
The Lighthouse
Spiderman: Far From Home
Captain Marvel
The Lion King
Little
Always Be My Maybe
Downton Abbey
After (lmaoooooo)
Let It Snow
Klaus <3

I have yet to see:

Hustlers
Rocketman
Aladdin
Judy
The Two Popes
Good Boys
Honeyland
Peanut Butter Falcon
booksmart
Toy Story 4
Missing Link

29. What is one thing that made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Quality time with my dad, my brothers, Natasha, the kitties... And getting beyond lucky when it came to my sweet hallmates and roommate :)

30. How would you describe your fashion concept in 2019?

Comfy girl-next-door

31. What kept you sane?

ASMR. Kiddos. My best friends.

32. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

Wow um cool if Hunter Shafer wants to accept my hand in marriage, I would be over the moon <3 Then again, I've got my usual suspects: Zendaya, Tom Holland, Ana de Armas, Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Joey King, Cole Sprouse, Billie Eilish, Reeve Carney, Eva Noblezada, Ben Platt, Harry Styles, and of course, Lizzo.

33. What political issue stirred you the most?

Sigh. 2019 was not unique in its growing cases of hate and violence. Between the mass shootings, the numerous cases of transphobia, islamophobia, and anti-semitism, the blatant acts of terrorism, raging fires, families being separated and children being put in cages... I just have no words. It is each and every one of our responsibility to be better. This world cannot improve on its own—it is imperative that we step in and make every little tiny difference we can.

34. Who do you miss?

My mom. Suki. My grandparents. My brothers. Phoenix and Scout. Evan & Linnea.

35. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2019.

You have courage made of steel, babe. You are made of bravery and determination and perseverance. You are made of stars and exploding galaxies and the Sun and the Moon. There is absolutely nothing you can't do if you put your mind to it. I have every faith that you will succeed. I love you I love you I love you.

36. Quote a song lyrics that sums up your year:

"Woo girl, need to kick off your shoes
Got to take a deep breath, time to focus on you
All the big fights, long nights that you been through
I got a bottle of Tequila I been saving for you
Boss up and change your life
You can have it all, no sacrifice
I know he did you wrong, we can make it right
So go and let it all hang out tonight"

"Good as Hell" by Lizzo

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

P.S: Happy Birthday a billion days late Maeve, my dear <3

Attempted Distractions

Hey pals. I know it's been a while. I'm sorry.

I'll try and update you more later but I just needed to get myself writing again.

So. Here's the easy way out. Tumblr questionnaire it is.

..........

1. Do you have a good relationship with your parents?

Compared to most? Yeah, I'd like to think so. My dad and I are best buds. My mom and I... well, it's complicated but we love each other very much and I wouldn't change that for the world.

2. Who did you last say "I love you" to?

My mom <3

3. Do you regret anything?

Occasionally, I think about things too much and wish I had done something differently. Ultimately? Nah, I wouldn't take back any of it. I am who I am because of the mistakes I have made.

4. Are you insecure?

Well, hell, who isn't?!

5. What is your relationship status?

Single. Um... yeah. Not quite used to that yet.

6. How do you want to die?

Jeez, what are these questions??? In the least painful way possible, thank you very much.

7. What did you last eat?

Ice cream :)

8. Played any sports?

HA! You see, I did the soccer and the tennis and the swimming back in my day... None of those stayed very long. Neither did track. Track confirmed my hatred of all things sports. 'Nuff said.

9. Do you bite your nails?

Nonononono it freaks me out too much!

10. When was your last physical fight?

Uh, never?

11. Do you like someone?

I think the issue is I'm trying to stop liking this someone, and it's a very hard task, indeed.

12. Have you ever stayed up 48 hours?

Excuse me but have you ever gone to high school?

13. Do you hate anyone at the moment?

I could never.

14. Do you miss someone?

More than you know.

15. Have any pets?

My darling little peanut dog, Suki <3

16. How exactly are you feeling at the moment?

Pretty gross, to be honest.

17. Ever made out in a bathroom?

...yes.

18. Are you scared of spiders?

See, I'd like to say no. Because I don't mind when they're in their own habitat. However, step into my space and you'll wish you hadn't.

19. Would you go back in time if you were given the chance?

I think it'd be a cool concept. I wouldn't wanna change anything, though. Just go back to replay certain memories, I guess.

20. Where was the last place you snogged someone?

That someone's bedroom.

21. What are your plans for this weekend?

I can't think that far ahead. One day at a time, my dear, one day at a time.

22. Do you want to have kids? How many?

I do and I don't. I do because holy crap how cool would it be to have a lil mini me? But I don't because, you know, overpopulation and pain and things. If I did, I'd probably have one of my own and adopt the other.

23. Do you have any piercings? How many?

Only two, one on each ear.

24. What were your best subjects in school?

Well, it's no surprise to anyone that I did decently okay in English, so...

25. Do you miss anyone from your past?

So, so much.

26. What are you craving right now?

Physical affection.

27. Have you ever broken someone's heart?

God, I hope not but I'm afraid I have.

28. Have you ever been cheated on?

Not that I know of.

29. Have you ever made your significant other cry?

Sadly, yes.

30.What's irritating you right now?

Fucking mosquito bites. Those need to go.

31. Does somebody love you?

I am beyond grateful to say yes. Many people do.

32. What is your favorite color?

PURPLE!!!

33. Do you have trust issues?

Um, maybe sometimes...

34. Who/what was your last dream about?

Vassar, believe it or not :)

35. Who was the last person you cried in front of?

A whole lotta strangers in the airport.

36. Do you give out second chances too easily?

Yes yes yes ohmygod yes.

37. Is it easier to forgive or forget?

It's easier to forget but goodness gracious don't ever do that.

38. Is this year the best year of your life?

I think that would be a solid no.

39. How old were you when you had your first kiss?

Fourteen years and seven months.

40. Have you ever walked outside completely naked?

Define "outside"...

41. Favorite food?

Arepitas. Look it up. Best food on the planet.

42. Do you believe everything happens for a reason?

I think everything has the potential to formulate a purpose. So in a way, I guess, yeah.

43. What is the last thing you did before you went to bed last night?

Hmm... I think I was slathering on Aloe because FUCK MOSQUITOS.

44. Is cheating ever okay?

In a relationship? Nonononononononononono. In anything else? Eh, it's not great, but there are worse things.

45. Are you mean?

Goodness, I hope not.

46. How many people have you fist fought?

Zero.

47. Do you believe in true love?

What does that mean exactly?

48. Favorite weather?

Foggy, by far.

49. Do you like the snow?

I do, indeed :)

50. Do you want to get married?

I sure would like a companion, yes.

51. Is it cute when a girl/boy calls you baby?

I dunno, depends who it is, I guess.

52. What makes you happy?

My friends are a bunch of weirdos but God, do I love you guys.

53. Would you change your name?

I used to want to, but I dunno... I think Maya kinda suits me now.

54. Would it be hard to kiss the last person you kissed?

I would want that more than anything. But some things just can't be.

55. Your best friend of the opposite sex likes you, what do you do?

That ship has sailed, amigo.

56. Do you have a friend of the opposite sex who you can act your complete self around?

I'd like to think so.

57. Who was the last person of the opposite sex you talked to?

The lil bro, Javi.

58. Who's the last person you had a deep conversation with?

Surprisingly, the lil bro, Javi.

59. Do you believe in soulmates?

I think "kindred spirits" is a better term.

60. Is there anyone you would die for?

Both my brothers, in a heartbeat. And quite a few others as well, though I couldn't fit them all here.

..........

There you have it. Slow, but it's something.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

Lazy Afternoons

Hey my lovelies.

I hope you've all had a safe holiday wherever you are <3

I know I haven't written in a while, mainly due to being super busy and spending actual quality time with people, but no matter. I've decided to do somewhat of a lazy post just because.

Enjoy another list of random facts about me :)

..........

1. Put your iTunes on shuffle. Give me the first 6 songs that show up.

Going Down For Real by Flo Rida

He Lives In You (from The Lion King Soundtrack)

Drops of Jupiter by Train

Slaves by Crywolf

Here's to Never Growing Up by Avril Lavigne

Born This Way by Lady Gaga

wow that was quite a selection.

2. If you could meet anyone on this earth, who would it be?

Oh lord, I'll get back to you on that.

3. Grab the nearest book to you, turn to page 23, give me line 17.

"...the bread they sold was so fresh that its warm smell filled the store..."

4. What do you think about most?

I love daydreaming about the future, believe it or not. I also love reliving my favorite memories.

5. What does your latest text message from someone else say?

"I'm gonna use it for an Instagram caption one of these days"
-Shelby <3

6. Do you sleep with or without clothes on?

That's somewhat of a complicated question...haha... I usually sleep with clothes on, but in the heat, clothing is minimal.

7. What's your strangest talent?

Uhhhhh I can fold my tongue like a clover, I guess...?

8. Girls... (finish the sentence) Boys... (finish the sentence).

Girls are beautiful. Boys are beautiful.

9. Ever had a poem or song written about you?

I think I've had poems written about me before, but I'm not sure if anyone ever went as far as to write a song...

10. When is the last time you played the air guitar?

Most likely last week in Claire's kitchen XD

11. Do you have any strange phobias?

I kinda get panicky with phone calls... Unless we're extremely close.

12. Ever stuck a foreign object up your nose?

I'm sure I've done the whole chopstick up the nose thing to make my brothers laugh when I was younger.

13. What's your religion?

I'm Christian, technically raised Catholic but I don't really affiliate myself with all the church's beliefs. I guess you could say I just believe in the power of love, miracles, and forgiveness.

14. If you are outside, what are you most likely doing?

Most likely roaming around with my best friends, causing trouble :) Juuust kidding, we'd probably just be making bad puns and laughing at each other.

15. Do you prefer to be behind the camera or in front of it?

I used to find comfort behind the camera but as of late, I find myself loving being in front of it.

16. Simple but extremely complex. Favorite band?

Dear God, are you trying to watch me suffer? Top three though are probably: Panic! At The Disco, Fall Out Boy, and The Beatles.

17. What was the last lie you told?

What the actual deadline for something was or something... I dunno...

18. Do you believe in karma?

I believe that if you put good into the world, it will find its way back to you.

19. What does your screen name mean?

(These questions came from tumblr so I'm assuming that's what they're talking about) My tumblr url is marloeburns and that's the name of the main character of a book I was writing two years ago.

20. What is your greatest weakness; greatest strength?

I have a hard time saying no or confronting people... I'd like to say I'm pretty great at making people smile though :)

21. Who is your celebrity crush?

Oh my Thomas Brodie-Sangster is just *heart eyes*

22. Have you ever gone skinny dipping?

Not that I can recall, but I want to really badly.

23. How do you vent your anger?

Ideally I'll vent to a friend (y'all are lovely humans for putting up with me) or otherwise I'll just listen to angry music and write a lot until the feeling has passed.

24. Do you have a collection of anything?

My family collects Pixar movies :)

25. Do you prefer talking on the phone or video chatting?

Well, I sorta established my phobia of phone calls but honestly I prefer them to video chatting because at least I don't have to worry about what I look like XD

26. Are you happy with the person you've become?

I'd like to think so :)

27. What's a sound you hate? A sound you love?

Oh goodness, there are so many sounds I find unappealing haha But if I had to choose a select few, it would be people chewing with their mouth open, scratching on chalkboards, and nail files. I absolutely love the sound of laughter <3

28. What's your biggest "what if"?

What if I'm not good enough?

29. Do you believe in ghosts? How about aliens?

I don't think so... Is believing in spirits the same thing? And who knows, there're probably tons of creatures in the universe we don't know about.

30. Stick your right arm out: what do you touch first? Do the same with your left.

A pillow. Another pillow.

31. Smell the air. What do you smell?

Strawberry yogurt and dish soap.

32. What's the worst place you've ever been to?

The hotel I stayed at the night I took the SSAT. It was next to a prison and a brothel to say the least.

33. Choose: East Coast or West Coast?

I mean, I haven't visited the West Coast very often... so I guess I'll have to choose East?

34. Most attractive singer of the opposite gender?

Ummmmmmmm too many people are pretty to look at.

35. To you, what is the meaning of life?

Cliche as it is, I think the ultimate goal is to be happy. To enjoy the little things in life and hopefully spread that happiness to others.

36. Define: Art.

An expression of the soul.

37. Do you believe in luck?

Indefinitely.

38. What's the weather like right now?

Cloudy and kinda muggy. Mostly humid.

39. What time is it?

4:19pm.

40. Do you drive? If so, have you ever crashed?

Ha... ha... I don't drive yet.

41. What was the last book you read?

This is Where it Ends by Marieke Nijkamp

42. Do you like the smell of gasoline?

It makes me queasy.

43. Do you have any nicknames?

Oh lord, well I have an entire post on nicknames here. But in case you don't wanna read that mammoth of a list, my main nicknames are Maya Papaya or My-My.

44. What was the last movie you saw?

Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

45. What's the worst injury you've ever had?

Someone once tried to make me do a split without actually being able to do a split... It wasn't a good time.

46. Have you ever caught a butterfly?

I believe so, but I was extremely gentle, I promise.

47. Do you have any obsessions right now?

Scented candles and stuffed animals XD

48. What's your ?

?

49. Ever had a rumor spread about you?

Middle school was a fun time. Note the sarcasm.

50. Do you believe in magic?

I believe we're as magical as we believe ourselves to be.

51. Do you tend to hold grudges against people who've done you wrong?

I do occasionally, but not for very long, I don't think.

52. What is your astrological sign?

Pisces :)

53. Do you save your money or spend it?

What money? XD

54. What's the last thing you purchased?

CJS's Christmas present <3

55. Love or lust?

I'd say it's healthy to have a bit of both ;)

56. In a relationship?

Yessir.

57. Are you a virgin?

Damn, you are not shy at all with these questions... Yes.

58. Can you touch your nose with your tongue?

No, I'm not that cool.

59. Where were you yesterday?

Barnes & Noble!

60. Is there anything pink within 10 feet of you?

My shirt...?

61. Are you wearing socks right now?

Nope.

62. What's your favorite animal?

DOLPHINS <3

63. What is your secret weapon to get someone to like you?

I'm not sure if this means like or LIKE like... I'm just gonna assume people in general. Just being genuinely friendly seems to work :)

64. Where is your best friend?

Oh probably somewhere in New England.

65. What is your heritage?

Dominican American and proud of it.

66. What were you doing last night at 12AM?

I'm pretty sure I was talking to CJS.

67. What do you think is Satan's last name?

I dunno, Kardashian probably.

68. Are you the kind of friend you would want as a friend?

Are you kidding? I'm like the snuggliest person I know, heck yes!

69. You are walking down the street on the way to work. There is a dog drowning on the side of the street. Your boss has told you that if you are late one more time, you're getting fired. What do you do?

First of all, I would never make a habit of being late. Therefore, I would not have the problem of being fired for being late. So saving the drowning dog would not be an issue. Problem Solved.

70. You are at the doctor's and she tells you you have approximately one month to live. a) Do you tell anyone/everyone you are going to die? b) What do you do with your remaining days? c) Would you be afraid?

a) After letting it sink in, I'd most likely tell my family and my closest friends.
b) Make them count I guess. Do everything I want to do.
c) Yes, very. But I'd like to think I'd find my peace with it before time was up.

71. You can only have one of these things: trust or love?

Love. Definitely.

72. What's a song that always makes you happy when you hear it?

Recent obsession: Cake By The Ocean by DNCE <3

73. What are the last four digits of your cell?

If I matter to you, you would already have my number.

74. In your opinion, what makes a great relationship?

It's incredibly important to learn how to be independent. Of course being there for each other is great, but not having to depend on the other person comes first. That, honesty, and communication I'd say are equally important.

75. How can I win your heart?

Sorry, it's already taken...

76. Can insanity bring on more creativity?

Yikes, well, from experience, I'd probably have to say yes, although it does come with a price.

77. What is the single best decision you've made in your life so far?

Leaving home for boarding school.

78. What's your shoe size?

6 or 6.5ish?

79. What would you want written on your gravestone?

I don't want a gravestone, I want a tree.

80. What is your favorite word?

Chucherías.

81. Give me the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word: heart.

Conor.

82. What is a saying you say a lot?

Awesome possum :)

83. What's the last song you listened to?

Grow Old With Me by Tom Odell.

84. What's your favorite color?

We've been over this. Purple all the way.

85. What is your current desktop picture?

It's a picture of me and the bros <3

86. If you could press a button and make anyone in the world instantaneously explode, who would it be?

Well that's not very nice.

87. What would be a question you'd be afraid to tell the truth on?

What do you dream about?

88. You wake up in the middle of the night. You hear a noise. Oh no! You're surrounded by MUMMIES!! They're not really doing anything, they're just kinda standing around. Quick, what do you do?

I'd ask if they were tired and then offer them the bed.

89. You eat radioactive vegetables and you get a superpower. What is it?

Shape-shifting. Acting dream=accomplished.

90. You can relive any half-hour of your life. What moment would you choose?

Probably any jam session with my crew. They make me happy beyond belief.

91. You can erase any horrible experience from your past. What would it be?

Too many to choose from, but besides, they've made me who I am today.

92. You have the opportunity to sleep with any music-celebrity of your choice. Who would it be?

Um, considering they're all like waaaaay older than me... None........?

93. You just got a free plane ticket. You have to leave right now. Where do you go?

Roma.

94. Do you have any relatives currently in jail?

Not that I know of?

95. Have you ever thrown up in the car?

Once Upon a Time, little Maya was hyper prone to motion sickness... I'll let you guess the rest.

96. Ever been on a plane?

I'm an international student at a boarding school. Yes.

97. If the whole world were listening to you right now, what would you say?

Why don't you learn to love each other?

98. Give me your top 5 favorite blogs on tumblr.

spicy-vagina-tacos
urban-nightmares
southernsummer
not-your-typical-juliet
parttimewallflower

..........

Ta daaaaa another meaningless post to waste your time <3 

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

3am and Here I Am Again

Well. The title says it all.

Every second ticks closer to 4 and I'm still not asleep.

I've got a massive headache at the moment but I'm choosing to ignore the fact that I'm currently staring at a screen and that's not helping. Not one bit.

I guess this is my way of saying I miss you. All of you.

Kinda wishing I dream up something cool just to feel nearer to you guys.

In the meantime, I'll write you a list.

..........

1. I came home a couple weeks ago and as great as it is to be back... well... that got old real quick.
2. I've been going to sleep around 4am and waking up around 2pm for the past two weeks. I am the only person I can blame for my terrible sleeping habits.
3. My parents are having issues.
4. I got to see Peter Pan which starred my best friend Priscila as Peter and I was so effing proud of her.
5. I was told that I was anemic and not anemic in the same day.
6. I'm not pregnant.
7. I'm having a sleepover with Pri this Saturday and I'm super mega flipping excited.
8. I'm supposed to start dance camp on Monday which should keep me busy. And hopefully whip me into shape.
9. For some godforsaken reason, I keep forgetting to eat meals during the day so I've found myself going full days without eating by accident. I need to set myself an alarm or something.
10. I raided my mom's closet and stashed all the stuff she can't wear anymore because now I fit perfectly into all of it.
11. I watched Inside Out. Almost cried from all the feelings.
12. I saw Age of Ultron. Cried from all the feelings.
13. I visited my Abuela.
14. One of my uncles died.
15. I made Javier's mind blow by showing him Inception for the first time. I also made him start reading the Narnia series. He's hooked.

..........

That's all I can think of that's of relevance right now.

I'm gonna try and catch some Zs but I won't guarantee anything.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

I really should be doing something else right now...

I can't think straight. Blog post it is.

...

1. Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?

Closed, I'm still afraid of monsters.

2. Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotels?

...Depends on how much I love their smell... No, that does not make me weird.

3. Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?

I mean, they sorta all end up in a tangled mess by morning anyway...

4. Have you stolen a street sign before?

Why the hell would I?

5. Do you like to use post-it notes?

I used to hate them and now I can't live without them. I've been very forgetful these days.

6. Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?

Ew, coupons and more things I'll forget about.

7. Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of bees?

Since I've grown up with all sorts of bites and stings from bugs and insects, I could definitely go for a change.

8. Do you have freckles?

Not that I know of.

9. Do you always smile for pictures?

Pretty much.

10. What is your biggest pet peeve?

Abruptness. 

11. Do you ever count your steps when you walk?

Yes, more often than not, actually.

12. Have you peed in the woods?

Yay for Girl Scouts and camping trips.

13. Have you ever pooped in the woods?

I don't think so?

14. Do you ever dance even if theres no music playing?

There's music playing in my head all the time.

15. Do you chew your pens and pencils?

Ew germs!

16. How many people have you slept with this week?

Um, my stuffed animal Mr. Bunny?

17. What size is your bed?

At home, it's a Queen, over here, it's a Twin.

18. What is your song of the week?

I guess it's You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift. Not gonna say as to why.

19. Is it OK for guys to wear pink?

Hell yeah, it's just a color.

20. Do you still watch cartoons?

Does the Regular Show count?

21. What is your least favorite movie?

This is a play, but still: Little Shop of Horrors. Biggest waste of time I've ever had to endure my entire life.

22. Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?

In the yard back where I lived 8 years ago.

23. What do you drink with dinner?

I try to do water, but some sort of juice ends up being the preferred beverage.

24. What do you dip a chicken nugget in?

BBQ sauce. Only if it's good. Otherwise, ketchup.

25. What is your favorite food?

Arepitas. (fried yuca, it's a Hispanic thing) Otherwise, strawberries, not gonna lie.

26. What movies could you watch over and over again and still love?

The entire Harry Potter series. And Disney movies. And Inception. 

27. Last person you kissed/kissed you?

This is awkward seeing as it was months ago...A.

28. Were you ever a boy/girl scout?

Girl Scout for 4 months before I decided that everyone there was a bitch. Thanks for ditching me in the tent 7 years ago, Alyssa.

29. Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?

Depends what it's for. The body can be art, too, you know.

30. When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?

Gibb's birthday.

31. Can you change the oil on a car?

I can't even drive yet.

32. Ever gotten a speeding ticket?

I can't even drive yet.

33. Ever ran out of gas?

I can't even drive yet.

34. What’s your favorite kind of sandwich?

I don't really like sandwiches... But I'll usually go BLT and just take out the tomatoes. Other than that, the peanut butter banana is a classic.

35. Best thing to eat for breakfast?

Raspberry yogurt and strawberries and OJ and toast.

36. What is your usual bedtime?

Oh dear... Well, as of late, it's been roughly around midnight. On a good day, it'll be 11:30pm.

37. Are you lazy?

Ehhhhhhhhhhh

38. When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?

A bear. An elephant. Winnie the Pooh. A ballerina. A horse. A butterfly. Sleeping Beauty (three years in a row). Mulan. Jack Skellington. Avatar. I can't remember the rest.

39. What is your Chinese astrological sign?

The dragon :3

40. How many languages can you speak?

Fluently, Spanish and English. I can only sortaaaa understand French.

41. Do you have any magazine subscriptions?

When I was little, my grandma would send me these kid magazines called The Ladybug and they were full of short stories and beautiful drawings and I loved them to pieces.

42. Which are better: legos or lincoln logs?

Legos, duh.

43. Are you stubborn?

Try me.

44. Who is better: Leno or Letterman?

Ellen.

45. Ever watch soap operas?

Ummm....maybe....

46. Are you afraid of heights?

YOU HAVE NO IDEA.

47. Do you sing in the car?

All the time.

48. Do you sing in the shower?

Never used to. I've taken that up in the past few years.

49. Do you dance in the car?

Occasionally.

50. Ever used a gun?
No, and I never plan to. I wouldn't physically be able to.

51. Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?

My quinceañera :)

52. Do you think musicals are cheesy?

They can be, but I love them anyway.

53. Is Christmas stressful?

Nah, not really. Favorite time of the year, usually :)

54. Ever eat a pierogi?

Once in a blue moon at the dining hall.

55. Favorite type of fruit pie?

I don't like pie.

56. Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?

An astronaut, president of the United States, a ballerina, a vet, a pharmacist... The list goes on.

57. Do you believe in ghosts?

Not quite, but I do believe in energy.

58. Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?

Multiple times.

59. Do you take a vitamin daily?

Nope and thank the Lord for that.

60. Do you wear slippers?

No XD

61. Do you wear a bath robe?

Only because I live in a dorm where people run in and out of places all the freaking time and decide not to knock on doors while they're at it.

62. What do you wear to bed?

Sweats when it's cold. No shirt and shorts when it's hot. I usually wear socks to bed, too... My feet get cold.

63. What was your first concert?

Shakira in 6th grade.

64. Walmart, Target, or Kmart?

Target all the way.

65. Nike or Adidas?

Um... sports clothing... not really my area...

66. Cheetos or Fritos?

Sun Chips.

67. Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?

Almonds.

68. Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?

No clue.

69. Ever take dance lessons?

Ballet for 9 years. Hip Hop/Jazz/Salsa/Zumba for two summers.

70. Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?

I think it'd be ironic if they were a doctor or anything having to do with science, seeing as I'm the least likely to do that myself.

71. Can you curl your tongue?

Like a clover.

72. Ever won a spelling bee?

1st Place for three consecutive years, oh yeah, those were the glory days.

73. Have you ever cried because you were so happy?

Definitely. When I got my acceptance letter, actually. Also every time I've gone back home over break. Seeing the fam is always nice.

74. Own any record albums?

I'm not quite sure.

75. Own a record player?

Don't think so.

76. Do you regularly burn incense?

No?

77. Ever been in love?

Of course. It's a wonderful feeling. 

78. Who would you like to see in concert?

Ed Sheeran. So badly.

79. What was the last concert you saw?

Juan Luis Guerra. So much funnn :)

80. Hot tea or cold tea?

Ew tea.

81. Tea or coffee?

Hot chocolate.

82. Sugar cookies or snickerdoodles?

What are snickerdoodles?

83. Can you swim well?

I won't drown, if that's what you mean.

84. Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?

Yeah?

85. Are you patient?

Depends what it is. If I like you, my patience can go on 'till pretty much forever. If I don't, have fun.

86. DJ or band at a wedding?

Slow down, I haven't thought that far ahead!

87. Ever won a contest?

Middle school science fair. I didn't even know what I was doing.

88. Have you ever had plastic surgery?

Yes, actually, for medical purposes. Long story. Won't gross you out. Top of my head.

89. Which are better: black or green olives?

Greeeeeen.

90. Can you knit or crochet?

My aunt taught me how to knit when I was 7 and now I can't remember in the least.

91. Best room for a fireplace?

Living room.

92. Do you want to get married?

I'd sure like a companion for the rest of my life.

93. If married, how long have you been married?

Not married and hopefully not for a while.

94. Who was your high school crush?

...We won't talk about this right now.

95. Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?

What am I, five?

96. Do you have kids?

Lord, no!

97. Do you want kids?

The thought of giving birth is terrifying and scary as hell, but the thought of little creatures with my same DNA is kinda mind-blowing. To love something so much because you made it, that's what I want.

98. What is your favorite color?

I've explained this before. Purple is #1. Turquoise is #2, but I always say the latter because it sounds cooler.

99. Do you miss anyone right now?

Yes and no. Loaded question.

...

Well that's as good as I'm gonna get for now.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya