Dazed 

Dazed 

Long Beach, CA

Hollywood Hills 

Long Beach, CA

Long Beach, CA 

Hollywood Hills 

“The Places Unknown” Pt. 1

This is a little story about the things that make me itch, cry, smile, cringe, and sometimes all of the above. Ultimately, these things and places give me a sense of hope and appreciation - so I want to share them with you. Along with some side notes.

Here is a little background:
Growing up, I wouldn’t say I wasn’t lavished with what most children had - and I definitely didn’t grow up in the best area. I have seen a lot, heard things I shouldn’t have heard as a kid, and I lived in an area that you would probably be scared shitless to be in. The Lower East Side of Long Beach, California. Although this was the case for me, I still loved it and I find joy in revisiting the places I’ve somewhat left behind. Good memories can be made anywhere. Lessons can be learned by everything and anything. Love can be found in the tiny little crevice of a cracked and gummed up sidewalk. This is just the beginning of Places Unknown, and this photo story will be followed by a collection of photos of People Unknown.  

The photo above is a photo taken of my old home, in which the majority of the time was spent with my sister Tina and Nancy, and also my parents (although, they worked every day 7 AM to 10 PM, and still do). Plenty tears and laughs were shared here - and so much anger also. It gives me a sense of light-heartedness now being that I haven’t stepped anywhere near close to it since today, when this photo was taken.

This place has endured fights, yelling, visits from ambulances, visits from cops, a robbery, tears, past friends, past boyfriends, and most importantly, my teenage angst (lol).

Still, a good ridden to this home. Remember not to forget the little places you’ve forgotten that have helped you become the person you are today. Take it all with the utmost gratitude. That’ll be the best way to move on.