Yes, I like Money.

I'm giving into a supernatural pressure I'm sensing to speak about money sooner than later. Something I had programmed to cover more extensively in December. But long story short: 

I used to be hyper-independent and prideful and wouldn't accept money from anyone unless it was clearly earned transactionally. However, this was a self-preserving response to toxic and harmful behaviors I had encountered that wounded me. (Manipulative/coercive/humiliating stuff.)

I healed from that. I'm still wary about receiving money from people as gifts, but I don't immediately turn it down or get offended like before. I just need to be sure that it is freely given in goodwill and that it is not putting a strain on the person. 

In this case, I'd be deeply grateful. I've received a few donations already (TYSM Tumblr mutual 😭💛) that I haven't yet properly shouted out. They meant A LOT to me, though. One of the first ones literally had me uncontrollably crying in public as though it purged misery out of me that I wasn't fully aware I had buried. It came at a time when I was feeling a tad too exploited while trying to be tough about it. The following ones have put me and kept me in a state of relief and tranquility that I immensely appreciate. So, no, it's not just money.

That said. I don't expect money from everyone who has it. I only demand it when people are making me go out of my way, draining my resources, or getting me invested with false claims or promises. Don't want that ugly side of me? Avoid these unless you're ready to compensate proportionally.

As for the jobs I'm offered, I'm extremely busy nowadays, running low on both energy and time. I only accept jobs that are incredibly easy for me to do or even feel like a break (e.g. home & pet sitting) with generous pay. I know it sounds spoiled and entitled, but my focus is currently on my own projects. And fortunately, I can still afford that.

Guess I'm a Mom, too!

Before too long, just oughta put this here because I love how cute this treat looks.

Mother's Day is the last Sunday of May for me, here, in the Dominican Republic. And my mother, even though I'm only a Cat/Dog Mom and sometimes the Mom Friend, tends to get me little gifts for the occasion (this is only one of many waiting for me for when I visit). Which I find sweet but also amusing. She says that at times it's as though I'm her mom, too (long story short, she's the more energetic and spontaneous of the two).

I like to consider myself the "Vodka Aunt", but I can't deny that I do tend to step in as "The Mom" when the situation calls for it and I'm able to fill that role. Yet, I'll always be in awe of literal mothers that are exemplary nurturers, consistent and reliable. Y'all are the true superhumans and you deserve the best!

EDIT (6/15/2023): Got clearer pictures!

I love Thoughtful & Meaningful Gestures

I’d been in the habit of posting many of the presents I receive from friends and family that I cherish, given that I've treated my site as a sort of scrapbook I can look back on and reminisce in, along with being yet another way for me to honor them. And although I’m taking a more focused approach now, it is not something I wish to leave out.

However, I should note that, unless I (childishly) make it obvious in my tone and choice of words, it is not for bragging (or humblebragging). I do personally cherish these gestures and, often, I like them, and aspects of them, so much that, for one reason or another, I must share about them! Besides, all taken into account, my circle is small and I don’t normally receive a lot of presents. But, I won’t deny that they do make me overjoyed - and who wouldn’t want that for themselves?

Furthermore, considering my mission, I concluded that this is relevant. Some of the presents I’ve received (and might keep receiving) are art, artsy, or picked out artfully. That or they in some way relate to art or the elaboration of art because that is what I’m into. They may, as well, speak of me. Plus, the act of making or choosing presents, and the many ways they can be packed, wrapped, and delivered, is something I’ll eventually be touching on. So, might as well start by showing my gratitude for them (with the givers’ permission).

I also give out presents. When and how I can (my budget is currently tight), but I tend not to post those unless there’s something I must illustrate with them. Who knows, though? Maybe I’ll eventually get into the habit of that, too.

So look at this cute gift bag I found to put in it small items for my bestie! I was holding on to a few and then got a few more before she visited, around a couple of months ago. She also ended up bringing me a bag full of a variety of items!

Anyhow, if you’ve been convinced to believe that giving and/or receiving presents is merely conceited, superficial and materialistic, consumerist conditioning, I’m here to combat that notion. It can indeed be like that sometimes, but that’s not all there is to it. And if you’re artistic, more likely than not, you’ve had the urge of doing something special as a gesture for somebody else.

I can’t promise I’ll be posting them all, nor that they will have anything to do with current topics (take it as a parenthesis unless stated otherwise), but I’ll be posting some every now and then. As soon as I get them or as soon as I get the chance to get sentimental about them. There are already quite a few I’ve yet to bring up, separately. It is almost overwhelming! But in a good way. I am deeply thankful. ♥