Turkey Day List #2

Hello my loves.

This list always proves difficult to write. Not because it's hard to come up with people I'm grateful for, but because it always ends with me getting rather emotional and... I dunno. Nostalgic, maybe? Either way, Thanksgiving posts have always been my favorite to write because I finally get to pay homage to the people and things that make everything infinitely better. I owe you my life.

Firstly to my angel, Titi Dorianny:

My dearest Titi... I dedicate the rest of my life to you. You are the single sweetest, funniest, smartest, humblest, most generous, most loving, most giving person I have ever known. That is no exaggeration. Though I'm still tortured by you leaving us so soon, your spirit survives in your husband's voice, in your son's eyes, in every latin song that comes on the radio; in knitted scarves and real smiles; galleticas de miel and blue skies. We will love you forever, as you have loved us. Te quiero, te adoro, te amo.

..........

Papi: It's always bizarre the moment you learn your parents aren't perfect. In this, though, I'm learning the act of forgiveness, and for that, I thank you. And for taking me in. And getting through this together.

Mami: I love you. I hope you always know that. I hope someday we can be closer again.

YD: You're pretty dope. This year you called me one of your best friends and I will never let you live that down. Love ya, pal.

Javi: So apparently this is the year you became taller than me or something??? Sounds fake but ok...

Tio John: You are such a vessel of strength and unconditional love. I admire you more than you know and I'm glad we will always be family <3

Natasha: It's really cool that we're both in New York now and our age gap doesn't matter as much haha You must be relieved you don't have to babysit me anymore (we all know how hyper I used to be) and instead we can enjoy deep talks and binging Netflix shows. Thanks for always being there.

Gaby: Oh Gaby... I freaking wish I could hug you. You astound me everyday with your resilience and brilliance. Truly. I've always said you'd be the next Einstein but now I'm thinking you'll be even more than that. You have such a beautiful soul and your parents have every reason to be proud.

Abuelo & Bianelly: Admiro tanto su amor. Espero algún día tener un amor así de fuerte.

Abuela: De verdad que te amo. Siempre lo haré.

Grandma & Grandpa: I miss you so much and I hope you guys are staying warm!

Tia Susan: I am purely convinced that you are my guardian angel.

Ali: Thank you for always being the sister I never had. I think our relationship is only gonna get better from here on out :)

Bob & Max: Regardless of whether you like having me around, y'all are such homies and I love youuuuu.

Suki: Muchachita de la porra I miss you so heckin much. Also, are you sure you're not part turkey?

Nutella: Niña bella, deja a la vieja tranquila XD

Cami: My dearest Cambria, can't wait to give you snuggles again ahhhhhhhh you're so fluffy I could die.

Luna: My darling creature, we haven't met yet but I'm your Tia and I LOVE YOU LIKE HECK.

Bernie & Phyllis: You little fuckers, I love you so much. Behave yourselves.

Future kitty: Hi there! Soy tu Mamá and I already love you with my whole heart! Stay warm until I get to hold you in my arms, yeah?

My exes: thank u, next :*

Pri: Chica, ven visítame porfaaaaaaa

Evan: Boiiiiiiiiiii, hello hi let's get ice cream and watch Narcos and go on a spooky scary midnight adventure and be besties again :)

Linnea: My love, I hope you know how much I love you with every fiber of my being. I would do anything for you and if someone hurts you, you best believe I will fuck. them. up. Now let's get together and take stunning pictures of each other <3

The Martins: If it wasn't already obvious, you guys are practically my second family and I love you to death and basically when can I move in?

The Night Owls: Your child misses you!!!

The Riders: You know how much you've done for me. I can never repay you.

Lauryn & Kelila: Hey babes, just wanted to say you're literally two of the bestest friends I've ever had and I live for our groupchat. I would do anything for either of you and I hope we get to see each other and be hoes together soon <3

Derek: It's sorta awesome having someone you've never met in person to count on. I gotchu fam.

Amanda: We vibe so hard together. I care about you immensely and your hugs are truly some of the best known to mankind.

Riley: You've grown so so so much from when I first met you and I can't even express how proud I am.You are going to do amazing things in this world, I know it.

Megan: My fave wife, please come visit me so we can have snuggles and excitement!!!

Soren: My precious child, holy heck am I proud of you. You better not forget about me when you're rich and famous and the most sought after celebrity of all time.

Julia: The Abbey can be tough but you are tougher. Even when you don't feel like it. Do not let it defeat you. I am here to support you always.

Caellum: I won't give up on you. No matter how many times you don't answer my damn texts, you fucker. Love you.

Emma: Babygirl, you were my first ever little sister and it pains me to even think that you're not so little anymore. You've grown so much and my heart aches to see you again. I love you I love you I love you.

Fonts: I think the fact that you've finally graduated college has automatically transitioned you into dad-hood and now you can't help but pick up the phone when I call at three in the morning :) You are seriously the best, thank you, I love you.

Mike, T & Thom: Forever and always my big brothers. I owe a lot to you.

Claire, Maeve & Sophia: Wish I could get us all together and have a ball. What a time that would be.

Aidan: Whoa whoa whoa I kinda really super duper like you, is that weird??? You're brilliant and kind and passionate and inspiring and hilarious and gorgeous so um can you stop being so perfect please? Thanks. Also, I miss you monkey.

Cast of Hadestown: Um so can you maybe leave a little talent to the rest of us please and thank you?

Emma Gonzalez: When I grow up, I wanna be just like you.

Dr. Ford: Your courage, eloquence and determination do not go unnoticed. Thank you.

Trevor Noah: Thank you for articulating such important issues and bringing them to the public. There's no place for them to hide anymore.

Michelle Obama: Please adopt me or become president or both?

All the Women Elected for Congress: LET'S FUCK IT UP LADIES

Frivvi, Maria & Emma: I owe countless restful nights to you three. What angels you are.

Alicia Keys: Always an icon. Always an inspiration.

Eddie Redmayne: You are a literal cinnamon roll. If you weren't 36 that'd be cool.

Zendaya: Marry me?

Donald Glover: You have my endless praise.

Lady Sybil: Please come back to life you were literally my favorite character and I aspire to be half the woman you were.

Tom Holland: I've already signed the adoption papers now pls come home

Barack Obama: I miss you.

Amandla Stenberg: Keep waking the people up like you do.

Noah Centineo: Hi so you don't know this yet but we're getting married and having like a thousand babies and they better all be like you I don't think I've ever crushed on anyone this fucking hard in a long ass time so pay up my dude

Willow Smith: You come from a long line of strong, brave women and you are no exception.

Billie Eilish: I can't even comprehend how someone so young already possesses the skill level that you do. Not only are you astronomically talented, but you have one of the most beautiful minds. I'm sorry it's tortured at times. I hope you make it out okay.

Ariana Grande: Woman of the Year is such an understatement. You deserve global recognition for your outstanding resilience in the past year. You crawled into hell and back and are STILL kickin'. Words can't even express how much I admire you.

Brockhampton: It's wild how fucking poetic y'all are. It's inspiring.

Lady Gaga: Perhaps the boldest most empowering woman I grew up admiring. Such talent and confidence and grace... I bow down to you, Lady.

Lin Manuel: You're still my babe :*

Bibi: Quite possibly the best I've ever had. Thank you for all that you do.

..........

How lucky am I to have so much to be thankful for?

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

P.S: It's currently way-too-fucking-late o'clock and I have a splitting headache so I need to go to bed but I love you cornflakes mucho mucho mucho :*

Turkey Day List #1

Whoa okay so it's been a hot minute.

I'd apologize for the long wait but honestly, if you knew the state I was in for the past eleven months, you'd understand.

There's a lot to tell and I dunno if I plan on recounting all of it but I'll fill you guys in with the basics soon.

In the meantime, I absolutely could not miss my annual Thanksgiving posts. It's sort of fitting that my first post in almost a year be on Thanksgiving. Funny how that is.

I don't even know if I remember how to do this thing. Oh whale. Here goes.

..........

Rhode Island Hospital's Emergency Room: Thanks for making sure I'm still here.

Ariana's sweetener: Major healing vibes. I owe a lot to you.

Piglet the Owl: I haven't been able to sleep a single night without you tucked in my arms.

The Hadestown Soundtrack: Thank you for reminding me that true passion for the arts still exists.

Apple: For teaching me the greatest lesson in patience via useless customer service representatives *insert upside down smiley face emoji*

Dear Evan Hansen: I am glad I exist in the same timeline as you. You move me to my core, you do.

Billie's don't smile at me: You've been my greatest discovery.

20 Beaumont St: For housing some special memories that I'll cherish forever. And for the learning and growing.

Vermont: For always being there. Every time.

Lactose free milk: Bruh, you da realest. fuck lactose intolerance

My phone: You sturdy little fucker. Thanks for stickin with me while I was computerless.

Photoshoots: For the candid smiles and endless laughter.

Sex: Highkey understand the hype now.

Money: Get rekt.

Cannabis: What a time.

Downton Abbey: My dudes, this is the single best thing I look forward to at the end of the day.

My pink sherpa blanket: I'm sorry I don't know how to wash you but I love you so much and will love you 'til you die please don't leave me.

Therapy: I wish I had the power to give everyone access to you.

Savers: I have about a million times more respect for people who work in retail now. Like... Jesus. Y'all really have been to hell and back.

Elections: For allowing me to vote for the very first time! Woot woot!

Marty the Striped Succulent: I only forgot to water you like three times I promise I love you with my whole heart don't die kay thanks.

Frozen dinners: For not letting me and my dad go hungry.

Melman the Decorative Squirrel: I haven't seen you move around the apartment lately, you okay?

Grace & Frankie, the hedgehog dryerballs: Y'all are real homies. Thanks for preventing static from ruining our clothes and such.

Car Karaoke Sessions: Sometimes you just gotta sing it out.

A Star is Born: One of the most moving art pieces I've seen in a long while. Perhaps ever.

100% Fruit Popsicles: You're a poor substitute for ice cream... still heckin' good though.

This Is Us: Ugh why must you chew my heart up and spit it out???

Grace & Frankie, the TV show: Season 4 better come out soon.

Knitting: For giving me a new hobby that not only passes the time but makes other people happy.

Hugs: I wouldn't be here without you.

Community Theatre: For opening my eyes to worlds of possibility.

Winter Season: Though you bring endless sadness to some, you bring infinite joy to me.

Gym: For getting me back on the grind.

Candles: For making everyday life a little sweeter.

Community: I hardly knew I could laugh like that again.

Face masks: You link us all through the power of self-care.

The Great British Baking Show: For reminding me that competitions and success don't always come to the most ruthless. Believe it or not, kindness aids in success.

Snow: Magic does exist.

Linnea's House: You've become another safe haven for me. You can never be replaced.

Astrology: We all need something to believe in, don't we?

..........

How's that for a comeback?

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

We Made It! (Barely)

Oh boy. What a year it's been, my loves. A lot of firsts... A lot of lasts... Here's to hoping you had a better one than I.

1. What did you do in 2017 that you'd never done before?

I graduated motherfucking high school, bitchesssssssssss!!!!! Oh, I also may have gotten drunk for the first time. And high for the first time. And had my first hookup. And regretted my first hookup. And started college. And dropped outta college. And met the love of my life under the strangest of circumstances.

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

Well, my dudes, I did as I promised last year: I survived 2017. Quite a feat, might I add. Beyond that, I don't really know if I could focus on anything else. 2018 better be my year. Please be my year. Please, pretty please.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Still no nieces or nephews, thank God. HOWEVER, the Kerrs and the Doires both adopted some gorgeous baby puppers, Finn and Loki respectively. And ohMyGOd they are the most terrific babies you ever did see.

4. Did anyone close to you die?

My dearest Rosie. Thank you for visiting me the other day. You have no idea how special that was.

5. What countries did you visit?

Nowhere new, I'm afraid. Just the good ol' USofA and DR.

6. What would you like to have in 2018 that you lacked in 2017?

I just... I want the pain to go away. I know that's a longshot, but the past few years have been hell. I mean, absolute hell. And I know I should be counting my blessings—I am—but just... I just want to know something for certain for once, you know? I just wanna be happy. Isn't that what we all want?

7. What dates from 2017 will remain etched upon your memory and why?

January 22nd. Semi with CJS.
February 11th. Killed Berklee 2k17.
February 17th. Legally Blonde.
March 28th. Vassar says yes!
April 10th. My poor Rosie <3
May 1st. Yes to Vassar!
May 13th. Senior Prom with CJS.
May 20th. Last Abbey show :(
May 28th. Graduation.
May 31st. First crossfade.
June 3rd. First heartbreak.
August 17th. Hello college.
September 12th. NIGHT OWLS!
October 27th. Buddhist retreat.
November 4th. Goodbye college.
November 10th. William Wells Rider <3
November 28th. First "I love you".
December 10th. One month of happiness.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Honestly? Getting into college didn't hurt. But I'd say the real achievement was finding someone who respects me and loves me for everything that I am.

9. What was your biggest failure?

I feel like I failed myself. I thought I was ready for college but just... things didn't really line up. The timing wasn't right. Lots of things weren't right.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

So I casually suffered from emotional shock in October and almost went into cardiac arrest which was no fun. But here I am, alive and, well... alive, folks. That's about all I can say.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

Whaleeeeeeee, here's the dealio: I have zero income. Or at least, I did have a minimal income until I left college. HOWEVER. Seeing as I am currently living with the Wilson-Fishers, everything I get comes from them. And let's just say Tia Susan was feeling particularly generous one day and bought me some early Christmas gifts from Urban Outfitters and holy SHIT do I look good in them :)

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Fonts, you've always been there for me, my dude. Seriously, I would not be here without you. Linnea, my darling, I could not be more thankful for you. The universe gave me the best roommate in the history of roommates. And Evan, dear friend, I miss you more than words can explain. You made college worth it. Tia Susan, you've been my guardian angel. And William, my dearest William, thank you. For what you do for me every single day. I cannot thank you enough. I love you all.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled?

This one might come as a shocker to y'all, but honestly, my parents. That's not to say I don't still love them with my whole heart or that they aren't wonderful people but they both fucked up royally this year. It's still taking me a while to put back the pieces.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Oh, are you talking about that college that I'm not even currently attending?

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

Getting into THE BEST  a cappella group EVER!!! (seriously tho, I miss y'owl more than you know)

16. What song(s) will always remind you of 2017?

Vor í Vaglaskógi by Kaleo
Waving Through A Window by Ben Platt
Michael In The Bathroom by George Salazar
Don't Think Twice, It's Alright by The Night Owls
Moondance by The Night Owls
Slow Down Love by Louis the Child ft. Chelsea Cutler
Dead by Madison Beer
Lights Down Low by MAX ft. gnash
New Rules by Dua Lipa
Mi Gente by J Balvin ft. Willy William
Felices los 4 by Maluma
Súbeme la Radio by Enrique Iglesias
Chantaje by Shakira ft. Maluma
Lost by Frank Ocean
Mykonos by Fleet Foxes
Degas Park by Kevin Abstract
GOLD by Brockhampton
Slow Hands by Niall Horan
HUMBLE by Kendrick Lamar
Bad Liar by Selena Gomez
Like Real People Do by Hozier
DNA by Kendrick Lamar
Shoutout to my Ex by Little Mix
Rockabye by Clean Bandit
Mercy by Shawn Mendes
Crying in the Club by Camila Cabello
Love on the Brain by Rihanna
Oblivion by Bastille
You Don't Know Me by Jax Jones
Swish Swish by Katy Perry
River by Bishop Briggs
Bad at Love by Halsey
Blame it On Me by George Ezra
Wasted Youth by FLETCHER
Bacon by Nick Jonas
Sight of The Sun by fun
There's Nothing Holdin' Me Back by Shawn Mendes
Make Me (Cry) by Noah Cyrus
Bad Things by Camila Cabello
A Million Reasons by Lady Gaga
The Greatest by Sia
Bon Appétit by Katy Perry
Sign of the Times by Harry Styles
All The Pretty Girls by Kaleo
Despacito by Luis Fonsi ft Daddy Yankee
Andas En Mi Cabeza by Chino y Nacho
So Much Better by Laura Bell Bundy (Legally Blonde)
Shape of You by Ed Sheeran
Sunday Candy by Chance the Rapper
I Found by Amber Run
Come On Get Higher by Matt Nathanson

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

(a) sadder. much, much sadder. but hopeful.
(b) about the same?? I dunno.
(c) far poorer. and not getting richer anytime soon.

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

I wish I could have laughed more. There are so many things to laugh and smile about.

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

Wallowing. I do too much wallowing. My friends can all testify.

20. How did you spend Christmas?

Quietly in Vermont. Spent more than half the day napping.

21. Did you fall in love in 2017?

I thought you'd never ask :)

22. What was your favorite TV program?

So you see, Evan got me hooked on this thing called Narcos and we lowkey may have binged it and it was the best time of my life. Then, of course, once Stranger Things Season 2 came out, there was no turning back. Since that ended, I may or may not have binged all of Big Mouth in a day...? Don't judge me.

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

His name rhymes with Tonald Drump. Although to be fair, I did already hate him this time last year, so...

24. What was the best book you read?

You have NO IDEA how long I've waited for this post so I could inform y'all :) Okay, so this summer, I ended up devouring books one by one and was a happy camper, yes indeed. Here's a collection of my top 5:

All The Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore
You Are Here by Thich Nhat Hanh
and of course, my beautiful Mami's book:
El Hierro Que Forjó a la Dama by Darys Estrella

25. What was your greatest musical discovery?

Probably Kaleo (thank you Evan and William!) If we're talking musicals, though, you MUST listen to the Dear Evan Hansen soundtrack. Unbelievable. Simply unbelievable.

26. What did you want and get?

A high school diploma. A college acceptance. Love.

27. What did you want and not get?

Mental stability. Yet again.

28. What was your favorite film of the year?

Beauty and the Beast
Spiderman: Homecoming
Gaga: Five Foot Two
The Florida Project
Loving Vincent
Wonder Woman
Gifted
Split

I have yet to see:
Coco
I, Tonya
Wonder
Ladybird
Dunkirk
My Friend Dahmer
The Greatest Showman

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

Daily "I love you"s from the one and only <3

30. How would you describe your fashion concept in 2017?

I literally hate this question so much cuz I never know how to answer it... I guess you could say I still rock the overalls. That and pajamas on a good day.

31. What kept you sane?

Not much, to be honest. I'm not even totally sure how I'm here right now.

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

Sooooooo I may have become a bit obsessed with Aaron Tveit and Ben Platt... I swear, it's only because they're talented, not because they're both drop-dead-fucking-gorgeous. Emma Watson once again makes the list, but what else is new?

33. What political issue stirred you the most?

There were too many to count this year, folks. Far too many. Plus, I was a bit preoccupied dealing with my own mental health so I kinda needed to steer clear of politics for a while.

34. Who do you miss?

Rosie. Linnea, Evan & the Owls <3 Oh, and my lil peanut, Suki.

35. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2017.

Taking time for yourself is ALWAYS an option. It does not make you a failure. It does not make you unworthy. It does not make you unloveable.

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

"Hold, hold on, hold onto me,

'Cause I'm a little unsteady,

A little unsteady."

"Unsteady" by X Ambassadors

There you have it. Sending you all my best.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

P.S: HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAEVE!!! I LOVE YOU WITH MY WHOLE HEART!!!

Dearest Rosie

I miss you every single day.

I just wanted to share the dream I had about you last night. It's weird, after you were gone, I dreamt about you every night but within the past few months you sorta drifted away... And I was afraid I'd lost you for good.

But last night you popped back into my dreams and I just can't explain it... This time was different. It was like you were really, truly there. I dunno. It's sorta hard to explain.

I was back at some hybrid version of the Abbey and Vassar mixed together. The whole dorm experience thing, I guess. And I remember seeing people from both high school and college living in the same space and they all knew each other. Weird how dreams are able to manipulate reality that way...

I remember being slightly aggravated because all the showers were taken and the light switches in the bathroom were being flickery. I remember complaining to someone about needing to call maintenance to fix the light. But as soon as they walked out the door and I turned my head, the room transformed.

It was no longer a bathroom, but some sort of dingy study room. Empty except for you, Rosie.

You just sat there by a round table, as if waiting for me. And suddenly the flickering lights came to a stop and settled on a warm glow. I looked at you and looked at you and my heart caught in my throat.

"Rosie?"

You had your red hair tied back in one of those messy buns and were wearing your Oxford letterman jacket along with your black skinny jeans and beat up combat boots. You were there. For real this time.

You gave me a gentle smile before pulling me into a hug. I couldn't breathe. I could feel your arms around me, I mean really feel them. Solid flesh and bone and just... I could feel your heartbeat.

You had a heartbeat, Rosie.

And you were so warm, like I could feel the all the blood within you. You pulled away to look at me with those blue eyes but all I could think about was how much I wanted to hug you again.

"Hey, Maya."

I could feel my chest start to tighten and my eyes start to water.

"Are you real?" I blurted, voice cracking.

You looked at me with this sort of sad smile.

"Yes, I'm real. But I can't stay long,"

Immediately, I started to panic, thoughts racing, trying to figure out some way to keep you here with me.

Instead, you pulled out a chair for me and invited me to sit down. Without breaking your gaze, I sat.

I was afraid you'd disappear if I looked away.

"You're doing really well," you said.

You gave my knee a pat.

"Hardly... I just dropped outta school, Rosie. That doesn't sound like 'well' to me."

"But you're managing. That's good," you said, and I could feel my eyes start to glaze over with a new wave of tears.

"Why can't you stay?"

"I can't."

"What can I do to make you stay?" I pleaded, reaching for the hem of your jacket.

"Maya... I'm already gone. I just stopped by to check on you, that's all," your smile kinda dropped a little bit and I knew you were sad about it too.

I could feel the tears flowing out my eyes in streams but I couldn't stop.

"Rosie, I miss you. Can't you stay a while?" I wiped at my nose, hoping you'd give in.

"I'm sorry, kiddo. I've gotta go," you gave my hand a squeeze before standing up.

"Go where?" I stood up, alarmed.

"Away for a little while."

"But will I ever see you again?"

I wanted to reach out to you, to touch you, to feel your heartbeat one more time.

"Maybe someday. Promise me you'll take care of yourself?"

You gave me one of those rare stern looks of yours.

"I—okay."

I stood up to give you a hug once again, but this one was more fleeting, more urgent.

I squeezed you and watched my tears drop onto your letterman jacket. I felt your heartbeat.

I turned around to push in my chair before saying, "I love you," but you were already gone.

I miss you, Rosie.

I love you.

I do.

-Maya xo

Turkey Day List #2

To all the beautiful creatures in my life, this is for you.

(Casually meant to post this a few days ago, oops, my bad)

..........

Mami & Papi: Thanks for teaching me that grown ups still have a lot of growing up to do.

YD & Javi: My precious bros, now and forever.

Suki: I'll see you soon, baby.

Grandma & Grandpa: Thanks for sending me an adorable card for every holiday season.

Abuelo y Abuela: Los quiero mucho. Gracias por toda su paciencia.

Lori & David: Without your care, I don't know where I'd be. I guess we're full circle now.

Titi Dorianny: You are the strongest person I know. Te quiero tantisimo <3

Tia Susan: You've been my savior this year, you really have.

Ali: Thanks for letting me invade your space, ily :*

Wilsons/Estrellas/Fishers: I know we don't all get along but we love each other just the same.

Kerrs/Doires/Martins: Thank you for always making me feel like a part of the family.

Pri: Chacha, eres mi numero 1. Sabes que te quiero ahora y siempre.

William: Words can't really begin to describe how thankful I am for you. Though our true origin story is somewhat laughable, what happened next was nothing less than magical. It's day 14 (but not like I'm counting) and you have made me feel more special than anyone else on this planet. It's still hard to believe you're real sometimes, but I guess I'll just have to get used to that. Thank you for your sweetness, your kindness and compassion, your loyalty, authenticity and support. Thank you for the phone calls that lasted more than five hours at a time. Thank you for your hugs, your kisses, and your spirit. Thank you for your Spotify playlists and for reading poetry to me. Thank you for the naps and the dance parties and all the fun in between. You are one of the kind, you are. Who knows where we'll take us, but I sure am having fun in the meantime <3

Michael, Natalia, Liam, Warren, & Jack: It's been so lovely meeting you and I cannot thank you enough for being apart of my William's life. I hope to see you all soon! (especially you, Natalia xx)

Fonts: You continue to be nothing but a constant source of happiness for me. Please make sure we make it to that seven year mark.

Mike: I love you, Sitka. Even though we've grown up and stuff doesn't mean I don't still need you.

Caellum: You worry me so much and yet parts of me believe we're two sides of the same coin. It'll be all right.

T: Hope you're doing swell, dad.

Thom: Thanks for being my first introduction to the world of magical substances. Your help was very much needed... *laughs hysterically whilst sweating*

Scotty P: Well now that I figured out you go to Middlebury, I guess I'm just gonna hafta visit ya soon, aren't I?

Claire: Girl, you keep slaying like you do. I've always looked up to you and you do not disappoint. Much love to you, babe <3

Emmalene: Hey, gorgeous. Thank you for making me smile even when you're down. You make it easy to be happy again.

Maeve: To be honest, I know neither of us talks all that much anymore but I am ECSTATIC for you and everything you do with your life. Yer a stunna.

Heather: Thank you for being a devoted blog reader, it means more than you know. Also thanks for listening to my endless nonsense rambles.

Sophia: Hello hi I'm still in love with you come adopt me sometime pls :*

Lauryn: Casually let me know when the cast list is out because I'm about to hop on that calendar and write the dates down, I have GOT to see you slay that stage. P.S: I love you so much, bby. You continue to be my crush <3

Kelila: You sweet creature, you. Thanks for all the smiles and the tears and the laughs. You deserve nothing but the best. Also, SCAD DON'T KNOW HOW LUCKY THEY JUST GOT, GO KILL 'EM.

Sarah: AHHHHH hello new best friend!!! Can't wait to turn up in Brooklyn with you! Sincerely, if y'all don't tie the knot, Imma be real upset. Jk jk no pressure but actually tho

Riley: I fuckin' love you, dude. I think about you every day. Go make the world a better place, you got this.

Megan: My better spouse, you are just so precious. I cannot imagine my life without you. I hope senior year isn't beating your ass like it did mine. I BELEAF IN YOU!

Emma: I know you're like a trillion feet taller than me now, but you're still my baby sister. Sophomore year sucks, and it will continue to suck, but the rest gets better. I promise. Your big sister loves you so very much. Thank you for being another reason not to die.

Amanda: Hey, I hope college hasn't stamped out your spirit, cuz babe, there's no one else like you.

Evan: Hey, loser. How's my best frand doin'? I miss you so much every single day and I casually might not ever give you your pants back :) jk I will it might just be a while ANYWHO, I kinda wanted to write you something that wasn't actually mean for once. You know. Something nice and wholesome. Don't worry, I'll go back to treating you like trash immediately after :) So. This is just to say you are hands down one of the BEST things that could have happened to me in my few short months at Vassar. Part of me feels like you're my long lost twin (which would explain why we treat each other like trash but also care about each other a whole lot lot lot). I dunno, dude, I miss our long walks and our trips to the Deece and walking back to Cushing while throwing shade at Noyes and I miss making fun of your tomato hands and I miss binging Narcos with you and Stranger Things and dropping classes every other day. I miss our fight club and our long chats in the basement and doing laundry and just idk existing in the same space. You mean more to me than you know. I know this all might just sound like sappy shit to you but I mean it. I love you, ya stinkin' banana. So much. Please don't forget about me while I'm gone. Okay. I'm done. Hope you had a fab Thanksgiving, fucker :)

Linnea: Hello, love. Can I just point out that you are the best roommate I've ever had? I know you probably don't believe me but guuuuuuuurl, I've seen some shit XD Anyway, this is just me telling you everything I've already said before—Linnea, my love, you are so beautiful, and so talented, and so fucking kind. Like I don't even think you understand. Your hugs and your smiles and your forehead kisses and your post its and your text messages and your radiance would just make my day. Thank you for all those times we stayed up late ordering Bacio's and watching Disney movies or Full House. Thank you for all the times you reminded me I needed to pee. Thank you for your Heath Bars on bad days and dance parties on good days. Thank you for dealing with all my crazy and all my emotional reck-ness. Thank you for unintentional twinning and for teaching me to do my eyebrows and for not judging me for my lack of clothing at all times. Thank you for stealing food from the Deece with me and for rants about pretty boys. You mean the world to me, darling. I cannot WAIT to see you again. You are such a shining star, and you better believe it. No one shines quite as brightly as you. I love you I love you I love you <3

Juliana: Mi amorrrrrrr, te extraño tanto!!! I can't wait to go back and just dance the night away with you again. For real though, you make everything more fun. You gotta teach me Portuguese sometime! Take care of Samira while I'm gone, she worries me sometimes XD

Prat: My duuuuude, I'm sorry we never quite got around to seeing each other as much as we wanted to but props for being one of my first friends at Vassar. I miss your hugs and our drunken endeavors. We gotta catch up on that next year, yeah?

Githu: Casually had a crush on you like the first week of school, oops? Hahaha no but for real though, you're drop dead gorgeous and you deserve to know that. Also I wish we saw each other more because whenever we hung out, it was a good time. Much love!!!

Moe: It looks like Cushing is going to see you around more than me now, huh?

Pedro: Keep doing your thing, dude. It's rad.

Anthony: Mijo, espero que te estes cuidando bien, ah? Cuando vuelva, tenemos que comenzar esas cenas españolas, okay?

Sergio: Esa noche que bailamos juntos fue un verdadero éxito. Aunque de verdad no ayudó que me acababa de tomar tres shots de tequila...

Ethan: Wow wow wow #1 best stufel EVER. Like, you have no idea how helpful you've been in the time that I spent at Vassar. I couldn't have done it without you.

The Night Owls-- I LOVE YOU (OWL) ALL!

Lily: Not gonna lie, was casually intimidated by you during auditions and callbacks but then learned how wacky and darling you were and fell absolutely in love!

Chiara: You are such a stunna. Like WOW I forget to sing my part whenever you're soloing because I lowkey become mesmerized at how talented you are but oh whaleeeee!

Imani: Thank you coming up to me at the activities fair and for asking me if I liked to sing. That's lowkey how I got it all started... I could never repay you for that <3

Bailey: Thank you for being my rock as I struggled through a helluva tough decision. Your help was so so so appreciated.

Jacqui: MAMA!!! I miss our mutual geekiness over superheroes and our sectionals and literally any time ever spent with you. I look up to you so so so much.

Haley: Sorta loved you from the first moment you opened your mouth. What can I say? That first impression did not lie.

Zoe: I will never forget the first time I heard you sing Trickle. My jaw literally dropped. You amaze me.

Olivia: I'M SORRY I HAVEN'T MET YOU YET, MAMA, BUT I CAN'T WAIT TO!

Emma: 5'2 CLUB! I feel like we have very similar souls and I am so thankful for your good vibes and good advice <3

Sam: You sometimes make me cry with how genuine you are. No lie, your hugs and authenticity give me life. And Hayden Elizabeth the Dinosaur, too.

Ariana: HEY THANKS FOR BEING MY QUEER CHAPERONE! IT WAS LIT!

Sab: That one mug night with you made me learn so much and I can't remember having a more entertaining time xx

Maisha: My darling Maisha, seeing your face in rehearsal was like saying hello to the sun.

Helen: My sweet Helen, your work snapchats were hella relatable and I lowkey miss them so much.

Elena: My dear Elena, your elegance and goofiness can be described as nothing more than high art.

The cast of Spring Awakening: To be completely honest, I'd wanted to be a part of this show since I was twelve years old. Even though I didn't end up being onstage with you, it meant the world to at least be chosen to be a part of it in the first place. Much love. (Also I'm expecting to see a recording soon please and thank you)

Las niñas de Cayacoa: No podría amar lo que estoy haciendo si no fuera por ustedes. Las quiero. Cuidanse bien, oyeron?

Barbara: Holy wow, I have never actually found someone who worked and well, you worked and so I'm sort of amazed. Wow wow wow good job universe for pairing us together and all :)

Aaron Tveit: What a beautiful man you are wow let's get married thank you

Ben Platt: So if I could have your babies, that would be nice. I just need them to sing. Jk jk thank you for showing me what performance is all about. Thank you for reminding me why I want to make it my profession.

Zoella: Once again, you never fail to make me smile. You've always been there, from the very beginning :)

Me: You've made it this far. I dare you to live a little longer.

..........

And those are just a few of the big ones.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

Turkey Day List #1

Another year gone by and tons of new stuff to be grateful for <3

To lists: You see the irony in this, don't you?

To Berklee 2k17: Such a win.

To Legally Blonde: Elle was one of the hardest roles I've ever had to play but it was an absolute honor and privilege to be a part of.

To AP Euro: I think Daddy P finally gave up on us but you gotta admit, we were probs one of his favorite classes, just sayin'.

To Senior Spring: Wow wow wow I accomplished zero things during that time :)

To The Auditorium Wall: I finally got around to signing you. I tried my best not to cry <3

To PAS '17: We did it!!!

To the Abbey: Thanks for the good times but I sure as hell am glad you're gone. Also I'm broke af so I dunno why you keep asking me for money #sorrynotsorry

To Vassar College: HOLY SHIT THANK YOU FOR ACCEPTING ME OMG I AM NOT WORTHY OF YOU WOW WOW WOW I THOUGHT I WAS GONNA BE COLLEGELESS BUT THEN YOU CAME ALONG AND SAVED THE DAY THANKSSSSS

To Grad Week 2k17: You've seen some shit. Let's keep it between us.

To Summer 2k17: Possibly one of my worst summers yet but the one that has taught me the most.

To International Orientation '21: It's lit.

To Domestic Orientation '21: Sorry I spent 90% of the time sleeping through you.

To 1East: Despite smelling like weed 24/7, you're pretty all right.

To Cushing House: The purple Cushosaur holds a dear place in my heart. For real tho, for a dorm named Cushing, you seriously need to invest in some better cushions...

To Room 111: I miss you and the memories I hold there so dearly. Take care of my Linnea.

To Linnea's Post-it notes: You've made me laugh and cry. I love you.

To Skinner Hall: Thanks for listening to me belt in your bathrooms in the ungodly hours of the morning.

To nighttime adventures with Evan: Some of the best highlights this year. I love and miss you so dearly.

To Italiano 105: My dudes, what a wild ride. I'm so bummed I won't be in the same class as you anymore but I'm sure y'all are killing it in the meantime and I hope Filippo is treating you well.

To Bacio's: Lowkey best food in town. 10/10 would recommend.

To the Buddhist Monastery: Something magical happened there. Thank you.

To Evan's sweatpants: You're super cozy and I might never give you back.

To the Wilson-Fisher home: You are my sanctuary. My safe haven. I cannot begin to express my gratitude.

To peppermint hot chocolate: You know where it's at.

To my new room: I'm starting to fall in love with you a little bit.

To my Reasons: You've worked thus far.

To the Library: The start of something good. Really good.

To Loving Vincent: What a masterpiece you are.

To the fog: You bring me peace.

To experiences I have not yet gone through: Please tell me I survive in the end.

To the Sky: The world can't be all bad while you exist.

A lot can happen in a year. It has not been easy but I am so blessed.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya

RAWR

Hi. I think you're asleep right now.
I hope you're dreaming about breathtaking things.
Anyway.
I'm writing to let you know that I really can't stop thinking about you, hard as I try.
And that scares me.
Like a lot.
Day 1 went really well, Day 2 even better, and I just can't quite map out how I feel like I've known you all my life.
Is that weird?
Oh, who am I kidding? Of course it's weird.
Don't mind me killing insomnia by writing about you <3

..........

Are you real?

How did you swim your way to me?

Someone like you doesn't exist.

Not even in my wildest dreams.

No, nobody has those blue-grey eyes of yours.

The dark ring around the exterior, crashing with the softer inside hues.

Nobody's got those shimmering, kaleidoscope eyes that dilate every time they see me.

Nobody's got those full lips that curl upwards without even trying.

Nobody's got that laugh that bubbles up and explodes, before sighing.

You've got me mesmerized, you have.

Inexplicably, like you just washed up ashore and turned out to be the most beautiful thing on this beach.

You're like a battered conch shell that plays echoes of the most stunning song.

You're like that feeling you get after sitting in the sun.

You're like a terrible chaos of wild and fun.

You're like peppermint hot chocolate.

Warm, hot, comforting, minty, great for a rainy day ;)

I like how you look at me when you think I'm not paying attention.

I like how you take my hands in your larger ones, kissing them and keeping them warm.

I like how you made an entire playlist of songs that remind you of me.

I like how you call me My Maya.

I hope I continue to get to know the you you want to be.

I hope your passions grow and allow you to succeed.

I hope the world lights up your eyes like a Christmas tree.

I hope at the end of the day, it's me you get to see.

I cannot promise I will age with grace, I cannot promise I will make no mistakes,

But at the sight of the sun, I shall not run,

And instead take the risk with open arms.

I know it sounds scary, I know, and it is, but the window is open.

Shall we see what happens next?

..........

Rawr.

Hasta la próxima,

Much love xoxo

Maya