This chapter begins with vulnerability. I talk about why starting this section of my story was difficult, not from confusion, but from clarity. I remembered everything too clearly, and stepping into this version of me meant facing the girl who wanted to belong, to be older, and to survive in her own way.

In this episode, I share the tattoos I got in unconventional places, not having reliable rides to and from work, Alex getting his license, and the one time I pushed back and used my voice. I also take you into Florida, into warmth and childhood freedom, into the memories I carry like a pocket of light. Then, returning home, I talk about two gifts that never reached me, and the senior photos I once loved and later felt uneasy about.

We pause here right before senior year deepens, allowing space for reflection and rebuilding as the story continues forward.

Also a reminder that I will be doing a Q and A series once my foster care story is complete. If you have a question you would like me to answer, you can submit it in a few different ways:
📌 Through the anonymous Google Form on my Linktree: https://linktr.ee/_builtfrombroken
📌 Use the direct Google Form link: https://forms.gle/vgU5keSDKR7EzvMM7
📌 Comment on a specific episode on Spotify
📌 Email me directly at [email protected]
📌 Or, if you know me personally, you can always reach out or comment where this episode is shared