Author: Maple

Since auditions are coming up this weekend(woo!!) I thought it would be nice to do a little meet the literaries blog. Personally, I used to read the blogs before I got here and wondered what the senior literaries were like. So I’m here to introduce them in my perspective. Please enjoy, and hopefully you will feel more connected to us. 

Azya: Azya is such a welcoming person. If you ever need anything, she’ll be there for you in a heartbeat. She knows how to crack the best jokes, and is such a lovely human being in general. She may have a ton of things to do, but she will postpone all of that to help you.  Such a gem.

Brianna(Bri): Bri is such a bright light in the room. She has that natural caring energy with a smile that says that she accepts you. Azya and Bri are always laughing, continuously cracking jokes. She is so adorable, and a lovely human being.

Callie: Callie is pretty introverted when you first meet her, but she is yellow, orange, and sunset colors. She is such an amazing person to talk to. A conversation is never dull with her. Her writing is pure gold. You must meet the wild Callie if you are out in nature and spot her. 

Hannah(Maple):(Callie will be writing myself, because it’s a bit conceited to talk about who I am) Maple is absolutely amazing, honestly. Her poetry gives you chills and resonates with you long after you read it, the words settling in your chest and making you feel something real. She is someone to admire, without a doubt, and she is one of the strongest people I have ever met. She never gives up, and she gives everything her all. Although she has a professional flair that will persuade you to trust her with your life, she is incredibly funny and hilarious (hands-down the best person to spin around in rolley chairs with). She has a lovely aesthetic overall, and I appreciate her choice in fashion and music. Want someone to sit in nature with? Yep, find Maple. Also, you will never regret talking to her because she will make you laugh, and you will find yourself pouring out all of your secrets at the same time. All in all, 10/10, would recommend. (Thank you, Callie!)

Katie: Y’know, Katie may seem very serious on the outside, but she’s so goofy when you get to know her. She has one of the best styles, and is a great person to talk to. Also, she’s the only one in our classroom that does a sport here(Soccer). 

Maleigh: Maleigh is one of the most bubbly people you’ll meet. She knows what she needs to get done, knows who she is, and is a boss lady. You can typically find her crafting, or writing her next task in her planner. She’s one of the most helpful people you’ll meet.

Morgan: Morgan is litrally one of the funniest people in our class. She and I are always joking around. She is super sweet, and is caring as well. She is always listening to music, and is one of the people that you just instantly click with.

Stephyne(Steph): Steph is very quiet and to herself in the classroom, but if you take time to get to know her she is one of the coolest people you’ll know. Her style is…beyond me. We always catch each others eye during workshop and make faces at each other for laughs.

Well, that’s all of us! We are so excited to see the new junior literaries in May! Best of luck for auditions.

–Maple 🙂

Hello loves, it’s ya girl Maple. Lately, things have been absolutely hectic. I mean, just wild. Even so, I have been able to find spots of positivity in many ways. Before I begin, I would just like to say how thankful I am for the people + things that have supported me during these days. Now, let me share with you the things that have brung me happiness. I hope this will encourage you to find specks of joy in the midst of despair as well!

 Humans: Before, I really preferred plants + animals (and I still do…we’ll get to that), but I enjoy the company of humans as well. You see, I’ve always enjoyed conversation with my close friends, but lately I have a new appreciation for everyone. I feel like everyone needs to be loved, and I see the goodness in each person. I really appreciate how people are so helping and kind. I am trying my best to make sure you all know that I genuinely care + appreciate you guys. I am always here if anyone needs me. I promise you won’t be a bother!

Animals: Ah yes, animals are truly wonderful. I have so much more of an appreciation for animals. I mean, they are just so loving. So many animals are hurt, abused, and it breaks my heart. I hate that they go through this. We really should be more loving towards our friends. And also, maybe 

Plants: Funny story, yesterday I was crying about eating plants because I love them. I believe plants are wonderful + lovely. Looking back, I literally cannot just eat air. Unless?? Nope. Anyway, I got more plants yesterday. There’s just something about the way they light up a space. But I got them from Walmart in the garden section. They sat outside, in a little cluster where no one seemed to notice. The sign said that they were marked on clearance. I know it sounds ridiculous, but I was so upset to see that they were just because they were hurting. So I am a plant mom again. 

Trust me, there are many more things that I am truly grateful for, but these are the ones that are currently in the front of my mind. I find that it is helpful to practice mindfulness, seeing the things that are truly lovely. I wish you all a bright day, and I have a sneaky suspicion that things will get better from here on out. Take care of yourself, be gentle, and know that crying is not a sign of weakness. 

-Maple 🙂

I know I haven’t shared that much of my writing, but I thought today would be a good day to share some of the pieces that I am most proud of.  I’ve always enjoyed writing poetry, and it is my favorite type of writing to do! Please enjoy, and hopefully these will inspire you/ provoke a thought.

Abuse is Your Party Trick

Breathe whispers down my throat.

Trail your fingers up my spine.

Grasp at my insecurities like gold,

Just because you think I’m yours.

Claim me as your broken dolly,

The one you need to keep safe.

Growl at the passersby viciously,

While holding my limp form.

Don’t you see what you’re doing?

Before I was filled with life,

But now I try to survive from you.

I can’t act perfect any more.

You call it protective, honey,

But I call it control issues.

You call me delusional,

But I call it gas-lighting.

I am done.

Done with toxic waste

that you cover up in 

false smiles,

gifts,

and compliments.

 What’s That in the Windex?                                                                                                        

All over America women are cleaning homes.             

It’s apartments in New York; condos                                                                            

in California; cabins in Alaska.                                                                                            

All over America women are making messes they’re                                                            

supposed to be cleaning up with brooms;                                                                            

sweeping away at the floors with glee.                                                                              

Anger fumes in her brain, confined but spewing out                                                        

in squirts of blue Windex.                                                                                                    

Uncleansed despair wipes like a dust rag                                                                         

from the laundry bin against the back of her eyes.                                                                

If she wants to clean up anything, it’s                                                                                 

her husband’s vile mentality.                                                                                            

If she wants to sweep up anything it’s his                                                                             

pitiful attitude towards her every day.                                                                                      

Her life is supposed to be polished;                                                                                        

it’s meant to shine.                                                                                                                   

Look, she says, once I was your welcome mat

that you could walk all over, but now 

I have reconsidered my role.

It’s not incompetence darling, 

it’s war.

Rainbow Baby

Your eyes are dull blue,

crows feet kissing the corners.

My eyes are blue too,

looking at you with wonder.

You didn’t think I would

be here with you today.

Here in your arms crying,

after you did all the work.

Saying I was your rainbow,

as you lulled me to sleep.

What is this love?

To be pressed against your

chest beating with life—

something you decided

to share with me.

Only a momma’s heart

could produce this

pure connection.

I hope you have enjoyed reading some of my poetry. Poetry was the first thing that I really started writing. I started off writing love poems. In fact, back then I was really into rhyming poems. It was much different than the poetry I write now. Thanks for reading!

-Maple 🙂

You, yes you, I know you. We are very similar, my friend. Though, we are not the same, I’m sure. You may be into writing, like me. You may be into drawing. You may even be into singing. Whatever it is, I know how you treat what is closest to your heart. In it’s rawest form you criticize it from every angle. You beat it down, until it seems like the most worthless thing in the world. And you question yourself, dear. Everyday.

Is This Good Enough?

                                          Am I Good Enough?

I understand. I know how you’re feeling. In the clouds of black smoke you can’t seem a slither of light. You can’t find anything good about what you do. Not one thing. It makes you wonder why you even try. Why give it a shot? Surely, you don’t have a chance. Who cares about your passions, your aspirations, the vision you need to show the world, when it’s just ‘trash’. 

Please, understand that I have stood in the fragile state that you are in. Teetering back and forth. Wondering if the audience will applaud or throw tomatoes. Hoping that they will applaud because you wore a white shirt today. Knowing that you wore a white shirt today, and don’t want it to be stained forever.

Well, I have news. You might fail. Shoot, you might get miserably boo’d. But don’t let those stains sink into your skin. Don’t let them turn your heart black, your passions into a sea of nothingness. 

You deserve better.

Think, think about why you did this in the first place. Go back to the moment where doing that thing was breathing to you. You had to show the world your vision, your voice. You’re not done yet, love. You still have more of your vision to give them. You still have more of an impact to make. Who cares about other people’s opinions when this is your purpose. Don’t be ashamed, and keep on, keep on, keep on. 

Never give in, Never give up.

Finally, give yourself some credit. You have already come so far now. Don’t let the past consume you. Look into your heart, and find your true passions again. Stop tearing yourself apart looking for what the public wants to see. Find respect in who you are now. Now breathe, and keep moving forward.

(Hello loves! Portfolios are due Feb. 1st for MSA. I wish the best of luck +love to you all. It is a stressful time, but don’t discredit yourself. You may be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. Believe in your abilities!)

–Maple 😉

So, in case you didn’t know…outside of Earth there is thing big ole thing called spaaace. And boy is it filled with tons of mystery. Lately, I have been up late at night watching space videos. Why? Because I asked myself a question: 

How Far Can Birds Fly Up?

Please, don’t ask me where the question came from. My mind is a very random place. But I’m willing to bet you’re curious how far birds fly up too, right? Well, it really depends on the bird(oxygen has much to do with it), but coming in first place for the highest flyer coming in at 37,000 feet is *drumroll* 

This cool dude!- THE RÜPPEL’S VULTURE

Anyways, this had me suddenly curious about space. I mean, there’s so much we don’t know about it! So here’s some interesting things I have learned recently about space/ residing in space/ being an astronaut. 

1. Due to the lack of gravity, your hair will stand up in space: Have you ever wanted to have troll hair…well boy, do I have an idea for you. I guess I never realized all of the differences due to the lack of gravity in space. For example, water will just float about- you can catch it in your mouth. 

2. You need to exercise every day in space: There is certain equipment that is used to keep yourself strong for when you get back to Earth. If you didn’t do that, then you would be walking jello.

3. Animals have been taken into space: Yes, even fish have been taken into space. Although they didn’t do so well. They lost bone density almost immediately while in space. 

4. You will see a sunrise every 90 minutes: Now, that’s got to be pretty wild. Although, astronauts have a schedule to keep themselves oriented. 

5.On a rocket, it takes about 8.5 minutes to get into space: Look, I’ve been in a helicopter before- it took a good bit to get up high. All I’m saying is I couldn’t imagine how it feels to be going that fast. I would probably get a headache.

There’s a ton of more interesting things about space. I encourage you to look into it. Down below, I will put the video I watched early in the morning. It’s pretty long, but I found it quite interesting. I learned a lot just because of my curiosity. Sometimes, it is good to see where your curiosity takes you. I think I’m now inspired to write a space-themed story.

Here’s the video:

https://youtu.be/06-Xm3_Ze1o

–Maple 🙂

Hey guys, I’m back from winter break. It has been an interesting break, but I would like to share with you a tradition I do every year. As the year wraps up, I reflect on the main purpose for that year. You see, going into a new year I make a title/ goal for what that year will hopefully be for me. With that being said, I would love to share some past years that I have titled, and tell you how the end results were.

The Year of Self Love(2017): The year before this was especially hard for me, so I knew I wanted to get back that self appreciation that I had when I was much younger. I knew that this would boost my mood, and the end results were a success. I found a love for myself which did not allow me to bring myself down anymore.

The Year of Forgiveness(2018): For the longest time I held a grudge against someone who really made a negative impact on my life in the past. I’ll be honest, I hated them. I knew that year I had to forgive them so I could move on from the past. I did, in fact, forgive them that year, and we have a good relationship today.

The Year of Self Discovery(2019): I would say this year was where I showed the most growth. By finding out who I truly was on the inside, it allowed me to have a happiness + understanding that I never experienced before. Not to mention, I gained confidence/ respect for who I was.

The Year of Growth/Success(2020): Of course, this is what I strive for it to be. Mainly my goal is to put in 100% effort in the things I am passionate about. It is finding my faults, and improving them. Overall, I want to keep building up my skills.

With that being said, I shared this with you today to encourage you to set goals for this year. I mean truly realistic goals that you know deep down you need to conquer! By setting these goals you are not only finding purpose for this year, but respecting yourself by bringing attention to something you need to work on/ accomplish. Many times people have this auto pilot attitude where they just go through the motions. In my opinion, this is not truly living your life to the fullest potential. It is more of a tired survival state that we go in. So set your goal for this year! It doesn’t have to be the most life-changing goal in the world, but something that you have desired to achieve in your life. Best of luck 😉

–Maple<3

Unless…

Guess what? 2019 is almost over! I congratulate you all on making it through this year thus far. For me, it has been a wild ride with many changes. I expect nothing less from 2020. I would love to recap some moments from 2019 as this will be my last blog of the year(weep). 

January: Although this month was mostly filled with moments that could be considered ‘bad,’ I still appreciate it. Without January I would not have discovered who I was, and probably would have been a completely different person today. So yeah, thanks January.

February: This was a fantastic month. I submitted my portfolio for MSA in hopes of coming where I am now. I was nervous, and the auditions were intimidating, but it gave me so much inspiration. 

March: I believe February/March (mostly March) was when I discovered a big part of who I am. It was a big success since I told myself in January that I would go on a self discovery journey. These days I feel more confident in myself because of March. Also, this was the month I got my acceptance letter to MSA. Getting into both things I auditioned(literary/theater) in was a dream I didn’t think I would accomplish. I was so happy, and my future seemed clear.

April/May: I’m going to be honest, I don’t remember much about April. In May I was just waiting to complete my sophomore year with great grades. Plus I was brainstorming ideas for what my dorm would look like at MSA/ what I needed to get. During this month I also got to go back to MSA to meet the literaries. Plus, I went to New Orleans with my mom 🙂

June/July: My summer was mainly filled with vacations with my family. I went to Florida/ Disney World which was a lot of fun. During that time I was gathering many items for MSA. I was so excited!

August: It took forever for August to come around. I was waiting for the day that I could finally go to MSA! I had all my stuff packed up, and made my way to Brookhaven. I was so shy, but my roommate was a big help on getting me used to the place. I remember all the junior literaries sat together at lunch/dinner because we did not know many people. Until we finally made more friends. A few weeks into August my true self showed (a goofy sarcastic fool), and I started sitting with great friends that I had made(a big step for me). Overall, I grew in many ways.

September: This month I found long term friends, and had a ton of fun with them. Although, this was the month that my roommate left(and boy did I cry). Besides that, September was a great time for my social life/ school life.

October: ARTOBERFEST. Yep, that’s it. Okay, so Artoberfest took up most of everyone’s time that was involved. It consisted of getting our rooms together for the haunted house. It was fun, but hard work as well. There were many laughs during Artoberfest. I made some new friends during this month as well.

November/December: These were busy months. November was filled with workshops and revisions. December has been a hard month for me, but I also feel like I know who I am/ what I want now. It’s crazy that I will be 17 December 30. It seemed like just yesterday I was 13. Time goes by quickly, but I will be looking forward to the rest of my time here at this lovely place. I know I still have much more growing to do.

Happy Holidays! 😉 

If you haven’t noticed, Mississippi is much colder than usual. Just today it started raining randomly. I had to go get my umbrella. To go along with that, the wind was blowing fiercely. Typically my cardigan would warm me up, but goosebumps littered my skin. On my trek to class I saw that the leaves were barely on the trees, and it kind of saddened me. I personally love autumn, it’s not too cold or warm either- it’s perfect. With that being said, I’m not opposed to winter. We have a love/ hate relationship. So I think the best thing to do during this hard month is to reflect on the good things that have come out of it in the past. I would encourage you to also find the little pieces of joy in December. While the weather is gloomy, there is still ups to December.

1. The beautiful lights: My dorm is filled with string lights and a salt lamp that gives a calming mood to my room. Seeing Christmas lights throughout Brookhaven reminds me of the comfort of my room. Plus, it reminds me of when I would run around in my yard being a fool during December. It was the first year Mom put up Christmas lights on the outside of our house. It was so lovely.

2. Warm soup: I have to say, I’ve only tried tomato soup since I became a vegan. Then when I got to MSA they started making this delicious mildly spicy soup around the colder months. It really makes me feel nice and warm inside.

3. Sweaters/Cardigans: Okay, during winter I get to wear my favorite items such as cardigans. I have a coffee colored one that is long and makes me feel comfortable. It’s  nice to feel all warm and cozy during a hard time. 

4. Good friends: There is nothing quite like laughing with friends to cheer someone up. I can be in a bad mood, but a joke or two can make me feel a bit better. It is good to surround yourself with a community that is here to support and love you.

With the sun going away, and past experiences of things that have happened during Christmas time it always tends to bring me down a bit. Although, this reflection has made me appreciate the little things that brighten my soul during this time. I hope that you too, will make a list of things that make you light up inside if winter tends to affect you too. You could even comment something that makes you happy during this time. 

Well, I’m back from Thanksgiving! I am pretty excited for Christmas break to roll around next. I’ll be 17 when I come back in January. With that being said, over Thanksgiving break I got a couple things for my room. It had me thinking about my dorm in general. When I first came to MSA I knew I wanted to make a calming space throughout my room. Which I did manage to do. Although, I was also unsure of what fun stuff/essential stuff I wanted to bring. All that to say, I would love to share some items below, and an essential list on what to add to your room/dorm. So here we go:

Essentials First(for moving in a dorm)

1. Bathroom Supplies: Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Mouthwash, Hair Products, Straightener, Curler, Brushes, Shampoo+Conditioner+Body wash, Rags+Towels+Hand Towels, Toothbrush Holder, Soap Dispenser+Soap, Shower Caddy(you may not need one), Shower Shoes, Shower Curtain, Bath Mat, Mini Garbage Can (for bathroom), Toilet Paper.

2. Cleaning Supplies(along with laundry): Windex, Clorox Wipes, Shout, Paper Towels, Broom+Dust Pan, Automatic Shut Off Iron, Steamer, Mini Vacuum(you may not need this with broom), Laundry Bag, Laundry Detergent(Tide Pods), Quarters(for washer/dryer). 

3. Clothes: Socks, Undergarments, Tennis Shoes, Dress Shoes, Dress Clothes, Jeans, Shorts, T-Shirts, Belts, Jackets, (perhaps) Jewelry (rings, necklaces, earrings,etc.), Also, makeup if applicable. 

4. Food: Mini Fridge(under 3.4 cubic inches here), Bin to put food/dishes in, Plates, Bowls, Forks, Spoons, Bag Clips, Ziploc Bags, Water(or Brita Filter), Chips, Ramen, Soda, Hummus(whatever fits in your mini fridge/ area).

5. Bedding/Room Essentials: Pillows, Sheets, Comforter, Blanket, Charger, Mattress-Pad(maybe?), Power-Surge Protector.

6: School Supplies: Backpack, Folders, Erasers, Pencils, Pens, Paper, Stapler(maybe?), Printer(maybe?), Computer(maybe?), Pencil Pouch, Note cards, Scotch Tape, White-Out(maybe?), Scissors, Journal.

Extra Lovely Things

Essential Oil Diffuser: I personally love having this around. It calms me down. I like the one that has lights. Don’t forget essential oils(I like lavender, mint, and aqua/fresh smells).

String Lights(battery operated): String lights have a way of adding warmth to your room. I love mine, especially at night when they light up my room. It gives it a calming effect.

Salt Lamp: A salt lamp is also a calming item to add to your room. It works well with string lights too. It gives a pink tone to your room. 

Rug/Curtains: A curtains add an elegant touch to a room. Don’t forget the bar to hold up the curtains as well. A rug makes the room cozier, also it’s nice to put your feet on after you get out of bed. 

Tapestry/ Wall Decor: A tapestry adds personality to your room, while also filling up space. The same goes for pictures, drawings, etc. Don’t forget command hooks!

Makeup Mirror/ Stand up Mirror: These two are handy for doing makeup, or when checking out your outfit for the day. 

Books/Plants/Other: These are nice to fill extra shelf space/ desk space in a room. I have other things like a mini rock garden, fake flowers in vases, etc.

Ottoman/Bean-Bag/Fuzzy Chair: Although I do not have these, it’s nice to have extra comfy seating for you or your friends. It fills up space, while also being useful. 

Decorative pillows/ Plushies: This is a fun thing, of course, but it adds a little something to your bed/ chairs. So add a few of these things if you like.

Alright, I hope I inspired you to change up your room a bit, or get stuff for your room. If you are thinking about going to a boarding school, college, MSA, etc. I feel like this would be beneficial to you. If anyone else has ideas for a room, please feel free to comment down below. 

Well people, it’s like a week away from Thanksgiving. That means 3 things. One, auditions for MSA have reopened(wow, it’s full circle). In other words, get busy on your application if you are an aspiring MSA student. Two, we get a whole week away from school(that I will probably get bored of, and end up spending my time doing school work). Three, it’s time for a blog post about what I’m thankful for(woooo). So here we go:

1. My dog: Wow, I miss my dog so much. Her name is Luna and she’s a mix of a Yorkie/Shih Tzu/Pomeranian. She is so freaking fluffy, and I can’t wait to see her this weekend. When I first got her, she was so sleepy all the time. Then she became extremely hyper, but now she has mellowed out. She makes me happy.
2. Mellow Mushroom: I cannot express how grateful I am for your vegan cheese option for pizzas. Whenever I go back home, I always want to eat there. I am hoping I can go again this Thanksgiving Break. Speaking of food, I’ll throw Apron Strings in there too because it’s a lovely vegan bakery. I’m hungry, can you tell?
3. Music: Oh, how I love you. Music is such a comfort throughout my day. It’s ever-changing, and helps my mood. It’s just a wonderful thing that has always been there for me.
4. My friends: Aw, I love you guys. You have helped me discover who I am, and have supported me along the way. When I am upset, you guys always tend to cheer me up every time. 
5. My mom: First of all, thank you. Thank you for allowing me to be me. Thank you for encouraging me to go after my passions. Thank you for supporting me in every aspect. Thank you for the hugs on rough days. Thank you for voicemails/calls asking how I am. Just, thank you for being who you are. 
6. For the end of this semester: Ew, I am so ready to be out of these classes. Although, next semester’s classes are going to be awful. So really, it’s a lose lose situation. I’m just thankful that I made it through almost to the end. Also, the end of the semester means Experience MSA Day. I look forward to that.

Of course I have many other things I am thankful for, but that will take forever to name. So for now, these are the things that are on my mind. I encourage you to also think about what you are thankful for. Perhaps, even comment someone/thing you would like to thank. Have a Happy Thanksgiving 🙂