When I started the Recreating Crissie project, I wanted to get deeper into topics that were affecting me personally. Heart, health, and home were big topics that were constantly on my mind. I knew I wasn’t alone, the more I reflected, read, listened to podcasts, and talked with friends. As the original project continues to evolve as Lonelily Lane, I want to share some snippets about these topics in my life.

I’d love to hear about how these topics are showing up in your life, too!

                                                                         Since I was old enough to talk, I’ve loved to sing. Writing, recording, and performing music have brought my greatest joy and helped express my deepest sorrow. Though writing and performing ebb and flow like all things, observing, imagining, and learning are constant. Every morning, I send thanks out to the universe for another day. Every night, I list the things for which I’m grateful and the hopes I have for myself and others.

Current health status: alive and kicking! 
I love the advantages that come with working from home, but it’s been a social and emotional struggle. Recreating Crissie has given me another way to connect with others. I know I’m not alone in anything I’ve gone through in the past or anything I’m in the thick of right now, and the more we can help each other, learn from each other, and support each other, the more we’ll all thrive! I’m grateful for supportive family and friends, access to education, and a strong and creative brain. I’m grateful to be born in this time and place where opportunities are available. I hope to pay it forward!

“Home” can mean so many things.
I’m lucky to have a physical place where I feel safe and comfortable to call home. I’m also fortunate to share that space with people who help to keep an overall comfy and positive atmosphere inside. We all have our ups, downs, and all arounds, and having the space to feel our feelings is priceless. For me, part of feeling safe and comfy at home is having an environment that looks inviting, is clean and organized but can still be lived in, sounds quiet during peaceful times and loud during fun times, smells like clean sheets or warm food, and holds items that are useful or represent some of the best memories.

A mentor once told me that
when someone asks,
“What do you do?” people often reply,
“I’m a ___.”

The question was what do you do - not what are you. Subtle difference, but meaningful.

The things we think, say, and do
influence our identity.
For better or worse, it’s all part of the human journey of experience and growth.