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Merida A story for my girls, by Annie ReynoldsAs graduation approaches, I have been doing a ton of reflecting.So... Merida. Where do I even start with this house?<figure id="figure-9dcd4o0q1ma5vk2qb"><img id="9dcd4o0q1ma5vk2qb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eSMmAHumgTVaXrZzJfpJ8hKISnv0tM9sAanvBh6dXknch504MdRNWUnhd0xuKhjU.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 95%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="95%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/eSMmAHumgTVaXrZzJfpJ8hKISnv0tM9sAanvBh6dXknch504MdRNWUnhd0xuKhjU.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 95%;"></figure>It wasn’t just where five of us lived. It was where ten, eleven, twelve of us lived. Like really, fully lived. We made that place home for way more people than were ever technically on the lease.The door was always open. Like, literally. Never locked. (I know that’s bad — sorry, Mom.) But that’s just how it was. It was the kind of house people walked into unannounced. And honestly? We loved that. We thrived on that.<figure id="figure-litg9ivfmma5vc3cg"><img id="litg9ivfmma5vc3cg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36DxfUK0gnHutBthZYBZUUu0kaLcGAJB8JM6DOZ4c49N8W9qOWOZZVzZbjjbAImk.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/36DxfUK0gnHutBthZYBZUUu0kaLcGAJB8JM6DOZ4c49N8W9qOWOZZVzZbjjbAImk.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 100%;"></figure>Always coming home to a couch full of friends, or a wave followed by a big hi from our perfect porch. We’d get the same questions over and over: “Wait… who actually lives here?” “You don’t live here?” “But you’re always here??” Yup. That was Merida. Even if your name wasn’t on the lease, your heart lived in that house.Somehow, we all just… belonged.<figure id="figure-23x8t0zt3ma5vj8vs"><img id="23x8t0zt3ma5vj8vs" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dFnEJnVrANR34JsGU8jtXIy5HuXytX4DHSlLRDuxl0hgr7Ag17RGslDS0A5BhHW.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 85%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="85%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2dFnEJnVrANR34JsGU8jtXIy5HuXytX4DHSlLRDuxl0hgr7Ag17RGslDS0A5BhHW.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 85%;"></figure>Porch time. Couch time. Music always playing. Someone yelling something from the kitchen. Someone else halfway into your closet asking, “Wait, can I borrow this?”Feti nights. Overstuffed Uber XLs. Screaming songs out the windows like we were starring in a movie. Grace narrating the scenes like she was filming a full-blown documentary.<figure id="figure-t7tfp19mma5vctai"><img id="t7tfp19mma5vctai" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35Br1Z1LBF1rFrGfGL3EN2bDUdAAjK0gHVhX9629ix37JZHMJmBpyHM0CUhqKmqZ.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35Br1Z1LBF1rFrGfGL3EN2bDUdAAjK0gHVhX9629ix37JZHMJmBpyHM0CUhqKmqZ.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>The dance parties? Man, were they legendary. They’d start off innocent — a song, a bit, screaming our hearts out, ya know, the usual. And suddenly… the costume bin is out, someone’s raiding your drawers, and someone else is sprinting downstairs yelling, “Wait! Lock the front door! It’s turning into one of those nights!”The only time we ever locked that house was for the late-night naked dance parties. One piece of clothing flying through the air sent the rest of us down the line. And honestly, it just made sense.And the pranks? We were always cooking something up. Fake storms, bathroom disasters, random alarms. Text threads. Outfit swaps. The classic “let’s all dress like her for dinner” chaos. It kept the energy alive. It kept us alive.<figure id="figure-9l4pq95p08ma5vdesa"><img id="9l4pq95p08ma5vdesa" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35EH2dTWDK4HDWMHY3u3IoIBhouiRFrhCY6jup4VxWx7uq5d99mfvuii1XHtW9G6.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/35EH2dTWDK4HDWMHY3u3IoIBhouiRFrhCY6jup4VxWx7uq5d99mfvuii1XHtW9G6.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure>I genuinely envy the girls moving in now. Really. They’re about to fall in love with every imperfect part&nbsp; the chipped paint, the weirdly warped floors, the moldy shower (sorry, but it’s true), the toilet that made its own rules (don’t ask, we don’t know), and the random holes in the wall that no one could fully explain,&nbsp; but no one questioned.They’ll get ready with the doors wide open, TV blasting music, clothes flying through the hallway, someone yelling, “Does this look cute or like... too much?”And I hope they fill that porch. Morning coffee, late-night talks, post-formal gossip. Drinks in solo cups or coffee mugs — didn’t matter. That porch meant everything.<figure id="figure-hh23q5ujyma5veeox"><img id="hh23q5ujyma5veeox" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2eaSyG5aeEtZEVbG4R5G0SsyjIXldlZUlJo5HvSTE1cQDh58t5LekG76NaW0CION.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2eaSyG5aeEtZEVbG4R5G0SsyjIXldlZUlJo5HvSTE1cQDh58t5LekG76NaW0CION.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>It was where we cried, laughed, layed out in the sun abd feel asleep, We read, danced, kissed people we maybe shouldn’t have, and had some of the most healing conversations of our lives. Someone was always out there. And if not, someone was on the couch. You were never alone, even if you wanted to be. And weirdly, that’s what I needed.The giggles were constant. Like, actual nonstop. You’d walk in and someone would already be mid-laugh, and you’d just join in. No idea what was funny. Didn’t matter. You were in it now.And the footsteps, we always knew who was walking in by the sound. Door creaks... “Ope, here comes Tina.” And we’d be right.<figure id="figure-wrf1pilc4ma5veo6r"><img id="wrf1pilc4ma5veo6r" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32oj7yR10UixLxtgRKeZZIIpqpt3jvgMdoz6OI96w1sln3QeqrDrip4Vuix5NDu3.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 60%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="60%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32oj7yR10UixLxtgRKeZZIIpqpt3jvgMdoz6OI96w1sln3QeqrDrip4Vuix5NDu3.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 50% 60%;"></figure>The Chapin running list of nicknames? Still growing. Now it’s becoming our official pregame game: List all the Chapin nicknames we've ever heard. Each one has a story. Each one lives in the walls of that house.We had stories that didn’t even seem real. Cass getting dropped off at a warehouse,&nbsp; a single digit wrong on the address, and suddenly, it’s not 2700 Merida, it’s 3700 Media, and next thing we know… bloody face, burnt-off eyelashes, and our best friend looking like she just crawled out of a horror movie. Obviously, we loaded into the Churb the next day to check out the scene. We turned the scariest, weirdest nights into laughter. Because that’s what we do.<figure id="figure-7iflohrctma5vf9ye"><img id="7iflohrctma5vf9ye" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21tTf7i8INmTBoNFPAXUPznCRmhH9Y0bDNq1uRT6YGq26zFYZsszYE1JdFbPtl5p.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 75%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="75%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/21tTf7i8INmTBoNFPAXUPznCRmhH9Y0bDNq1uRT6YGq26zFYZsszYE1JdFbPtl5p.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 75%;"></figure>Me locking my roommates out, them thinking I was dead inside. Yup. A locksmith broke in that night. Real friends right there, they had to make sure I was okay.I miss the scary movie nights I never made it through (because I’m a fidgety baby and also a complete scaredy cat). I miss waking up after a night out, loading into the Churb…<figure id="figure-jhg14d0wd2ma5vndy3"><img id="jhg14d0wd2ma5vndy3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16kBdptq9VUIJfdJSHFjPZemTFtLSfgHf2cD5WWosEjHzVKpPUTewm5RSlCEsJ52.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16kBdptq9VUIJfdJSHFjPZemTFtLSfgHf2cD5WWosEjHzVKpPUTewm5RSlCEsJ52.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: center center;"></figure>&nbsp;the Chapin Suburban, windows down, last night’s makeup, coffee in hand, headed to… somewhere. Where? Who knows. Didn’t matter. We were together.We rotted on that couch like royalty. Blankets everywhere, legs tangled, someone half-off the armrest. Mid-movie snoozes. Someone always with their head in someone else’s lap. That’s what I’ll miss.<figure id="figure-90pr77kkhma5vfxwc"><img id="90pr77kkhma5vfxwc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34xP5MAo1qoD29KQDuJJjrTbGVjXD4h0FnTZ61o3gowbunk5KTo7LvRmhGN98PJ4.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/34xP5MAo1qoD29KQDuJJjrTbGVjXD4h0FnTZ61o3gowbunk5KTo7LvRmhGN98PJ4.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>I found my people in that house. The kind who show up without being asked. Who protect each other. Who know when to throw the door open — and when to quietly close it.We learned how to let go of the people who didn’t deserve us, and how to hold tight to the ones who did.We fought. We forgave. We got better at the hard stuff. We trusted. We loved.We cried over boys. (So many dumb ones.) The ones we already laugh about. The ones we will laugh about. And no matter what… we always ended those nights with a drive, a milkshake, or a windows-down scream-sing into the night.<figure id="figure-mfkpy6zo4jma5vgbqy"><img id="mfkpy6zo4jma5vgbqy" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1r3rD3g5L9kLmDrrDAk5pJqIqhFQG1EgSnJAXSH1moCnPTMgTMSraOXlROBpoxYh.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 10% 85%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="10%" data-positiony="85%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1r3rD3g5L9kLmDrrDAk5pJqIqhFQG1EgSnJAXSH1moCnPTMgTMSraOXlROBpoxYh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 10% 85%;"></figure>Because we had each other. And that was always enough.So, to the girls moving in next. You’re stepping into something special. Something messy. Loud. Beautiful. Chaotic. And so, so full of love.I hope you dance. I hope you prank each other. I hope you laugh so hard you can’t breathe, and cry so hard you feel safe. I hope you lock the door when it gets weird. I hope you really live in that house. Because she’s magic.<figure id="figure-6mj0lbmm8sma5vhagg"><img id="6mj0lbmm8sma5vhagg" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11E5s8zF2cTFaZLDaF6MxHM0T5aREqqP09fhupi3WDnj37MGSxaCb75WZtAGg0Rd.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 15%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="15%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/11E5s8zF2cTFaZLDaF6MxHM0T5aREqqP09fhupi3WDnj37MGSxaCb75WZtAGg0Rd.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 15%;"></figure>Merida changed my life. And looking back now… I just feel so dang lucky.To the girls who made it what it was, I love you.Thanks for giving me something that makes saying goodbye so hard. This is not goodbye, it is just a see you soon. There is so much more to come. You’ll always be my little pieces of Merida, wherever we go next.<figure id="figure-qncmcmgvjma5vi1lv"><img id="qncmcmgvjma5vi1lv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bA4W1iDH24ctftaS7GogSkrRygDHdmD7rJPEyjHuiZxR82N3hmRj95rTz6ns1aD.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2bA4W1iDH24ctftaS7GogSkrRygDHdmD7rJPEyjHuiZxR82N3hmRj95rTz6ns1aD.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>

My Girls

March was a month of intentional slowing down, but also of pushing myself forward, gently. I gave myself permission to explore what I need and what makes me feel like myself. I called it my “March Sprint,” not because I was racing through anything, but because I was actively, mindfully challenging myself in ways that matter. And I documented it all, through messy doodles, iPad journaling, and little notes that held big meaning.One of my favorite parts of this month was watching certain themes keep showing up, again and again. These became my March Favorites. Not products, not trends, but truths. Anchors. Things that helped me heal, reflect, and grow.1. Movement as Medicine The first and maybe biggest favorite of mine this month: physical movement. Not in a rigid, check-the-box kind of way, but as an act of care. Walking, stretching, running—even just getting outside and breathing in the air. It wasn’t about hitting some perfect streak of 10K steps a day. (Spoiler: that didn’t happen every day.) I had a goal of hitting 100 miles this month, and I did that, not a fourth of them running but hey, one day I'll get there. But every time I did move, I could feel it helping me heal. I could feel the shift in my energy, the lightness that came from doing something for my body.Movement reminded me that healing isn’t just about rest—sometimes it’s about action, too. About knowing when your body wants to move, and choosing to listen to it. There were moments where I knew I needed to move, and I’m proud of myself for leaning into that.2. Knowing What I Need &amp; Honoring It This month I spent a lot of time identifying what I need as a person—without guilt, without comparison. What do I need to feel steady? To feel grounded? I started writing these things down in my journaling space. Not lofty goals or expectations, just honest truths. Things like quiet mornings, creative outlets, walks in the sun, and time to think without rushing.Putting them down in writing helped me own them. These aren't things I'm going to apologize for. They are part of who I am, and they deserve space in my life.3. Sticking to My Gut The third theme I couldn’t stop coming back to: trusting myself. I’m the only one who truly knows what I need. People might say, “Let them…” And while that can be freeing, it also reminded me—let me. Let me listen to my gut. Let memake the call. Let me stand firm in what feels right, even when it doesn’t make sense to others.There were moments this month where I felt really strongly about something, and I’m proud of the way I trusted that instinct. It’s a reminder that we’re not meant to outsource our knowing. We carry it. We live it. Sometimes all it takes is giving yourself permission to believe that.&nbsp; Through it all, my doodles and notes became this creative journal of sorts. A collage of March—my movement, my moods, my reflections. Some of it’s messy, some of it’s beautiful, and all of it is mine.If you’re looking for a new way to stay accountable, process your goals, or just tap into what’s been living in your mind and heart, I can’t recommend visual journaling enough. Don’t worry about making it perfect. Just start. Scribble. Reflect. Revisit.Because when we give ourselves the freedom to create, to move, to know—we make space for growth in the truest sense.Here’s to the next sprint. Let’s keep going.<figure id="figure-5gyw1qcsumm8xsyjv5" class=""><img id="5gyw1qcsumm8xsyjv5" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/149cT6YrkRs9oAxyExsz375VqaacCTIjdR3WXdHjcnzfzYUsxDLhSsLbySpNeTu6.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 35% 0%;" data-corners="small" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="35%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/149cT6YrkRs9oAxyExsz375VqaacCTIjdR3WXdHjcnzfzYUsxDLhSsLbySpNeTu6.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 35% 0%;"></figure><figure id="figure-0pdtrl0qrum8xt0o8a" class=""><img id="0pdtrl0qrum8xt0o8a" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/138Gavat0Mv4StCK71lk2cCjOhpu4uWcCy14hynk5MNLhmm5gVQlFguZBf8f0Ox4.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 100% 100%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="100%" data-positiony="100%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/138Gavat0Mv4StCK71lk2cCjOhpu4uWcCy14hynk5MNLhmm5gVQlFguZBf8f0Ox4.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 100% 100%;"></figure><figure id="figure-o37movbahim8xt1n92"><img id="o37movbahim8xt1n92" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4GcYcTxSdQP5WLKKoiWuT4lPMktGtODJcIZnR7KLPDyS4gbjwY8hO6Rdbjtwoebl.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 25% 0%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="25%" data-positiony="0%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/4GcYcTxSdQP5WLKKoiWuT4lPMktGtODJcIZnR7KLPDyS4gbjwY8hO6Rdbjtwoebl.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 25% 0%;"></figure>

March Sprint: Moving, Doodling, and Trusting My Gut

I turned 22 last week. February 26th, 2024, marked a new year of life, and this time, it feels different. This isn’t just another birthday; it’s the beginning of a chapter where everything is changing for me. Graduating college, moving out, stepping fully into adulthood, and taking on responsibilities I’ve only ever shared with my family until now. March is my month of growth, transition, and actively creating the life I dream of.For so long, I’ve had the comfort of knowing that my medical needs were managed with the support of my parents, my mom always scheduling my appointments, picking up medications, and handling insurance. But now, I’m entering a phase where I have to take the reins. Slowly but surely, I will start paying for my own doctor’s visits, medications, and everything else that comes with managing a chronic illness as an adult. It’s a daunting reality, but one I’ve been preparing for.Owning My Health: Becoming My Best Advocate If there’s one thing I’ve learned from my journey with chronic illness, it’s that advocating for yourself isn’t optional, it’s necessary. As I step into this next phase of life, I’m working on becoming an even better planner, ensuring that I have what I need to be a healthy, symptom-free girl. This means organizing my medical records, tracking my symptoms, and making intentional choices that will allow me to thrive, not just get by.Staying Ahead of My Medical Needs Scheduling appointments, keeping track of lab work, ordering medications on time, and budgeting for healthcare expenses will now be fully in my hands. It’s overwhelming, but I’m ready to embrace it. Having a system in place, using and keeping up with planners, health logs, and a dedicated binder for all my medical records—will ensure that I’m never left scrambling for answers.Focusing on Long-Term Health The way I care for my body now will determine my quality of life in the future. I’ve already made major shifts in my diet and lifestyle to keep my body feeling its best, and I plan to keep pushing forward. Eating clean, intermittent fasting, limiting red meat, and avoiding gluten to reduce inflammation are choices I make for myself because I know they make a difference.Meal planning is a goal of mine that I hope to implement consistently once I move into my new apartment and start my master’s classes this summer. My new routine will include preparing nutritious meals and making things like fresh juices each week to ensure I’m getting all the nutrients I need. Taking care of my body isn’t just about medications, it’s about fueling it well and giving it every possible advantage.Building a Support System Even though I’m taking on more responsibility, I know I don’t have to do it all alone. Surrounding myself with people who uplift me and encourage my growth will be essential. This is a scary and uncertain time for all of my friends as we wait to see where our jobs will take us. Personally, it scares me too, we are all about to be spread across the country, just as my high school friends were four years ago. I thought my world was ending when that happened, and I’m not sure I’m ready to go through it again.But I’ve learned that change brings new opportunities. I need to use connections, put myself out there, and find people around me who share my passions and values. Building a new support system doesn’t mean replacing the old one—it means expanding it.Graduating and Moving Out: A New Beginning College has been a whirlwind, and now, it’s all wrapping up. In just a few months, I’ll be walking across that stage, ready to take on the world. The reality of moving out, building my own space, and creating the life I want is both exciting and terrifying.Finding Independence: No longer having the structure of school and home means learning how to build my own systems. This is going to mean managing work, health, and personal life all on my own. This means being intentional with my time, understanding that I have control over how I spend my 24 hours each day, and making sure I prioritize what truly matters.Creating a Life I Love Moving out isn’t just about having my own space; it’s about setting up routines that bring me joy and structuring my life in a way that makes me feel fulfilled. Some key adjustments I plan to make: ✔️ Meal planning and cooking nutritious food—having a nice kitchen in my new apartment will allow me to create meals that nourish my body and keep me feeling my best. ✔️ Developing a structured running and workout plan—I want a schedule that aligns with my work and studies, making movement a non-negotiable part of my day. ✔️ Prioritizing meaningful relationships—setting aside dedicated time for friends each month so that I always have something to look forward to. ✔️ Romanticizing my own life—creating an environment where even the small things feel intentional and special. Whether it’s fresh flowers on my table, cozy nights in, or setting aside time for creative hobbies, I want to love the life I’m building.Embracing the Unknown Change is scary, but it’s also full of possibility. This is my time to take risks, set new goals, and chase the future I’ve always dreamed of.March Goals: Stepping Into My Power This month isn’t just about acknowledging change—it’s about embracing it. My goals for March are clear: ✔️ Plan for life after graduation – job searching, budgeting, and making big decisions for my future. ✔️ Continue prioritizing my health – staying on top of appointments, fueling my body well, and managing stress. ✔️ Embrace independence – taking charge of finances, medical responsibilities, and creating a structured routine. ✔️ Be intentional with my time – structuring my days to align with my goals, making time for movement, and ensuring I’m investing in my personal growth.Manifesting My Dream Life: Becoming the Healthiest Version of Myself This is the year of becoming,the year I push myself to new levels, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I’ve fought through so much to get to where I am today, and now, I want to take that fight and turn it into something bigger. My dream life is about more than just existing; it’s about thriving, pushing my limits, and showing others that they can do the same.I want to become the healthiest, strongest version of myself, not just for me, but for those who feel like they’ll never get their life back. Chronic illness takes so much from you—not just your energy and physical strength, but your confidence, your sense of self, and your belief that you are capable. I’ve been there, and now, I want to prove that you can come back from it.Becoming an Athlete Again: Pushing My Physical Limits The girl who once struggled to make it through a school day is now setting her sights on goals she never thought possible. I want to run more half marathons, full marathons, triathlons, ultras, anything that proves I am stronger than the body that once tried to hold me back, and to prove to myself, I am NOT this disease.&nbsp;Running and endurance sports are my way of reclaiming my body, proving that I am in control. I want to train hard, push myself, and show others that no matter how broken you may feel at times, you can rebuild. You can be an athlete, no matter your past struggles.One of my biggest passions is helping others, especially kids and young adults who have been through their own battles. I want to coach, train, and mentor those who are struggling with physical, emotional, or mental health challenges. Whether they’re dealing with illness, injuries, or mental blocks, I want to be the person who helps them see their strength again.Chronic illness doesn’t just attack your body, it plays HUGE games with your mind. I’ve lived through the anxiety, the depression, the fear of not knowing what’s next. I’ve felt the isolation, the frustration of watching everyone else move forward while you feel stuck in place.I don’t want anyone to feel alone in that battle. That’s why mental health check-ins will be a part of my future. Whether it’s through coaching, running groups, or one-on-one training, I want to be a mentor for others. I want to create a space where people can talk openly about what they’re going through while using movement as a tool to build themselves back up.This isn’t just about exercise, it’s about healing, confidence, and proving to yourself that you can do hard things. Because when you start to push yourself physically, your mind follows.Teaching, Coaching, and Impacting Lives Teaching has always been at the core of who I am. I know I’m meant to be in the classroom, shaping young minds, helping kids build confidence in their abilities, and giving them tools to succeed. But teaching isn’t the only way I want to impact lives.I want to have other jobs on the side—coaching, counseling, and supporting kids and adults who need guidance in their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. With my education degree and my own experiences, I know I can help kids who are struggling with similar issues, whether it’s chronic illness, learning differences, or mental health battles.&nbsp;I want to help kids and young adults train, set goals, push through their struggles, and realize they can reclaim their lives. The fight isn’t over just because you’ve been knocked down. You can get back up. You can build something beautiful out of your hardest moments.Advocating &amp; Becoming the Best Version of Me More than anything, I want to be an advocate. An advocate for people fighting invisible battles. An advocate for kids who feel lost. An advocate for young adults who are trying to find their way back to themselves.And the best way I can do that? By becoming the best version of myself first. By proving that it’s possible to fight through chronic illness, to push past limitations, and to create a life that is full of energy, movement, and joy.I want to be the person who shows others that you don’t have to stay stuck. You don’t have to accept feeling weak, or tired, or like your body is working against you. You can fight back. You can rebuild. You can live fully.Manifesting It All: The Dream I’m Creating ✔️ Running more races—half marathons, marathons, triathlons, ultras. ✔️ Coaching &amp; mentoring kids and young adults through physical and mental challenges. ✔️ Using my education degree to guide and support students who need extra help. ✔️ Making mental health check-ins and physical activity a way to heal and grow. ✔️ Moving around, living in different places, and embracing every opportunity. ✔️ Advocating for people with chronic illnesses &amp; showing them they can reclaim their lives. ✔️ Becoming the strongest, healthiest version of myself.This is my vision. This is the life I am creating.It won’t happen overnight. It will take work, discipline, and commitment. But I know deep down that I am capable of building this life. I’ve already fought through so much—I know I can take it even further.So here’s to the future, to the journey ahead, and to becoming everything I was meant to be.

Becoming an Adult: Creating the Life I Dream Of

February is often a month filled with love. Valentine’s Day, cozy moments with people who care about us, and little reminders that kindness and warmth go a long way. But for those of us navigating chronic illness or just facing life’s everyday challenges, this time of year can also bring feelings of exhaustion, loneliness, or the weight of all we’re carrying.Lately, life has been nonstop for me. Student teaching in a third-grade classroom every day from 7:30 to 3:30 is rewarding, but it takes every ounce of energy I have. Add in flu season, and my body has felt like it’s constantly fighting off cold symptoms. Some days, it’s frustrating. Some days, it’s completely overwhelming. But in those moments, I try to find the things that remind me that, even in the hardest times, there is still good, there is still love, and there is still so much to be grateful for.Finding Your “Lucky” Moments Feeling lucky isn’t about having a perfect life. It’s about seeing the good that exists right now. When I look for these little moments, they add up.<ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>The way my students make me laugh, even on the most exhausting days.</li><li>The relief of my IVIG finally arriving with all the correct lines and needles.</li><li>Knowing that my IVIG is giving my immune system a boost right when I need it most.</li><li>A text from a friend reminding me I’m not in this alone.</li><li>These are all signs that even when life is hard, there are still things to celebrate.</li></ul>Your Strength is Something to Be Grateful For Some days, it’s easy to feel like we’re not doing enough. But if we take a step back, we realize how far we’ve come. Whether you’re managing an illness, navigating school or work, or simply showing up for yourself, that is huge.For me, IVIG nights used to feel so isolating. The soreness, the swelling, the fatigue, it’s hard. But I’ve learned that even in these tough moments, I can create little routines to make them feel just a little bit better. One small thing I do? I wash my bed sheets and blankets before my infusion. Knowing that after a long night, I get to cuddle up in a cozy, fresh bed makes the whole experience a little easier. It’s a small act of comfort, but it makes a difference.<figure id="figure-9kub1yjuqpm6jga4wt"><img id="9kub1yjuqpm6jga4wt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5atUhnXikXDXmKUwpb8MqO2MM168bUV2JTykeaUaoyhwsAZkvSzCMVjzUYEiPD5m.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 " style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 45% 75%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="1:1" data-caption="" data-positionx="45%" data-positiony="75%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/5atUhnXikXDXmKUwpb8MqO2MM168bUV2JTykeaUaoyhwsAZkvSzCMVjzUYEiPD5m.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 1/1; object-position: 45% 75%;"></figure>Bringing Good Energy Into the World When we feel grateful, we naturally start to give more to the world around us. And the best part? It doesn’t take grand gestures to spread love and good energy.<ul style="list-style-type: circle;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: circle;"><li>A kind word to a stranger or friend.</li><li>A deep breath before reacting with frustration.</li><li>A small act of self-care, as silly as it sounds but remaking and cleaning my bed-because taking care of yourself allows you to pour into others.</li><li>February is a reminder that love exists in so many forms. It’s in our friendships, our accomplishments, the little joys we collect along the way. And no matter where you are in your journey, you are worthy of love, joy, and all the goodness life has to offer.</li></ul>So today, take a moment to feel lucky, not because life is perfect, but because even in the hardest seasons, there is still so much to be grateful for. 💛🧡❤️🩷<figure id="figure-xi0fvndjubm6jgepvz"><img id="xi0fvndjubm6jgepvz" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 selected" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-mce-selected="1"></figure>

Feeling Loved & Lucky: Finding Gratitude in Every Season

There’s something magical about the start of a new year. It’s a chance to pause, reflect, and reset. But if you’re living with chronic illness or navigating life’s challenges, the idea of a “fresh start” can feel overwhelming. How do you set goals and embrace new beginnings when your body or circumstances feel out of control? This year, I’m focusing on realistic, empowering goals that honor where I am, and I want to share how you can do the same.1. Reflect Before You Reset Before you dive into new goals, could you take a moment to reflect on the past year? What worked well for you? What brought you joy? What challenged you? Reflection isn’t about dwelling on the hard moments but about learning from them and celebrating your resilience.Ask Yourself: What am I proud of from the past year? What did I learn about myself? Please write it down: Journaling your reflections can help you understand the year ahead. 2. Set Goals That Feel Right for You When living with chronic illness, traditional goals like “work out every day” or “stick to a rigid routine” may not always be realistic. Instead, focus on goals that align with your needs and celebrate progress over perfection.Be Flexible: Set goals that can adapt to your feelings. For example, “move my body in a way that feels good” instead of “exercise for 30 minutes daily.” Focus on What You Can Control: Whether drinking more water, practicing gratitude, or keeping a consistent sleep schedule, choose goals that empower you without overwhelming you. Celebrate Small Wins: Every step forward is progress, no matter how small it may seem. 3. Create Intentions, Not Just Resolutions Resolutions often feel like rigid rules, but intentions are about the mindset you bring to the year. Instead of focusing solely on outcomes, think about how you want to feel or what you want to prioritize.Examples of Intentions: “Prioritize my health and well-being.” “Approach each day with kindness toward myself.” “Find joy in the little moments.” Intentions can guide you, helping you stay grounded when things don’t go as planned.4. Build in Rest and Self-Care Starting fresh doesn’t mean you have to do everything at once. As part of your new year’s plan, prioritize rest and self-care. Living with chronic illness has taught me the importance of pacing myself and listening to my body.Schedule Rest Days: Make time for intentional rest to recharge physically and emotionally. Practice Daily Self-Care. Small acts of care, such as journaling, meditating, or sipping your favorite tea, can make a big difference.5. Start Fresh Every Day The new year's beauty is that it reminds us that we can start fresh—not just on January 1st, but every single day. Some days will be harder than others, and that’s okay. What matters is that you show up for yourself again and again.My 2025 Intentions This year, I’m focusing on a few simple, meaningful intentions:1. Stay Present: Embrace the moments of joy, even on hard days. 2. Advocate for Myself: Continue tracking my health, journaling, and speaking up for what I need. 3. Celebrate Progress: No matter how small, every step forward matters. Nurture Relationships: Strengthen the bonds with my family, friends, and community. 4. Find Joy in Creativity: Write more, embrace my passions, and share my journey with others.A New Year’s Reminder You don’t need to have everything figured out by January 1st. The new year is about progress, not perfection. Be kind to yourself, embrace where you are, and remember that every day is an opportunity to move forward, even if it’s just one small step at a time.Here’s to a year of growth, resilience, and fresh starts, glitches and all.What are your goals or intentions for the new year? Please share them on the Contact page, and let’s inspire each other to make 2025 a year of hope and strength!

New Year, New Goals: Starting Fresh, Even Through the Challenges

Be Authentically You: Embrace your whole self. Your illness doesn’t define you; your heart, passion, and dreams do.Own Your Journey: Your path is unique. Focus on how you respond, not how you compare to others.Let Others Be: Everyone has their battles. Live your journey and let others live theirs without comparison.Stay True to Yourself: Be unapologetically you. Your authenticity is your power; don’t let anyone dim it; that makes you you.&nbsp;Find Your Balance: Balance rest with living fully. Hard days happen, but life is still worth enjoying.Stay Connected: Lean on friends, family, and community. Connection keeps you strong.Take Time for You: Prioritize your emotional and mental health. Rest and recharge without guilt.Eat Well, Live Well: Fuel your body with balance; healthy choices matter.<figure id="figure-a40eb92xaam65gqul3"><img id="a40eb92xaam65gqul3" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/353AuZXwoi89aj4XZLVqtxldTZGfSZEGfdhmIYlTTb7kNakLfSLr9wrPKiwnhPlk.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/353AuZXwoi89aj4XZLVqtxldTZGfSZEGfdhmIYlTTb7kNakLfSLr9wrPKiwnhPlk.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure>Say “Yes” to Life: Take risks and embrace new experiences. Life is still full of opportunities.Love Yourself Fiercely: Celebrate your resilience and journey. You are enough, and your strength is unstoppable.

The 10 Key Things I Try to Remind Myself Everyday & You Should Too.

Annie Strong

My awesome life thriving through the everyday struggles of chronic autoimmune diseases. It will get better; I found my way. Maybe I can help you find yours?

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My Girls

March Sprint: Moving, Doodling, and Trusting My Gut

Becoming an Adult: Creating the Life I Dream Of

Feeling Loved & Lucky: Finding Gratitude in Every Season

New Year, New Goals: Starting Fresh, Even Through the Cha...

The 10 Key Things I Try to Remind Myself Everyday & You S...