Questions, questions, questions. The foundation of my human experience has been my willingness to confront the uncomfortable ones—the questions that often remain unspoken around me. As a Latina and the eldest in my family, I’ve shouldered many responsibilities, and I often felt that nothing was ever enough during my upbringing. Reflecting on this evokes a mix of emotions, and I recognize that it has been a long journey of self-discovery. There’s so much to explore and share about my culture, mental health, and identity—how does one create a life that feels worthy, and for whom?
Perhaps you can relate. I found myself adopting roles and identities that were never truly mine, which limited my world and left me feeling paralyzed. Through peeling back those layers, I learned to connect with myself in creative ways. The skills I’ve developed through visual art, my work in public service, and my travel experiences have profoundly shaped my perspective and redefined my narrative. So, who am I? I am all the versions of myself that have guided me through this journey, manifesting in countless ways. I honor those parts of me and express my gratitude for their guidance during the scariest times. Because of these experiences, I’ve achieved many personal goals and surpassed some of my most challenging barriers.
Some of you have been with me on this journey since I launched my Instagram account, @iwanderwithu, in 2016. That’s where it all began—the first creative project after my “rock bottom” moment, a pivotal time when I knew I had to change direction. I chose that name because I was determined to wander the world and invite you along for the ride. I was lost, venturing far beyond my comfort zone in a true quest for self-discovery. While it might have seemed like I was “living my best life,” I assure you that I was navigating everything with a hint of fear. But if you’re not scared, are you truly growing? That very fear fueled my creativity! The travel photos, visual art, and modeling projects weren’t just aesthetically pleasing; they created a shared reality that we could connect with. I deeply appreciated every interaction as I offered you glimpses into my journey.
Now, it’s time to weave the pieces of my story together in a more intentional way. Come wander with me once again as I share my travel experiences, life stories, and the visual art created along the way. Just know that the wandering never stops; it is a way of life, and I look forward to catching you somewhere along this incredible journey!
