It has been a while since I sent one of these little newsletters out. I was feeling guilty and like I “dropped the ball.” I hope that this little corner of the internet gives me grace, and knows that this probably won’t be edited or written perfectly. I’m thankful you’re here and want to read my words. I’m learning to try and surrender the idea of perfection in creativity a la Maggie Rogers.

Speaking of Ms. Rogers, I recently wrote a piece collaborating with my friend and talented photographer, Morgan Winston, about the live ticketing event in Brooklyn a couple of weeks ago. Morgan and I showed up to the Music Hall of Williamsburg on a cloudy Friday morning, and we didn’t know where it was going to take us. We didn’t have an outlet or publication in mind, and we simply wanted to connect with fans in a special moment to celebrate Maggie Rogers’ Summer of 23 Tour. It was published on Amplify Her Voice’s blog that boldly advocates for gender equality in the music industry. I hope that more of my work can be rooted in the joy of connection like this. Here’s one of my favorite quotes from fan Daniel Labarbera: “My favorite Maggie song has to be ‘Back in My Body.’ There was a time when I didn't feel at home in my body and that is the one thing we are given.. Our body and our mind. Just to be able to come back to it, it’s such a celebration. It’s such a rejoicing feeling that is super special, emotional and awesome. The song does a perfect job of encapsulating just that feeling of returning home.”

This is my first time experiencing Spring in New York, and it has been nothing short of enchanting, as we’re thawing in the sun post winter. Cherry blossoms are in bloom and people are picnicking at Prospect Park or dining al fresco A lot of life happenings have been developing in the past couple of months. I’m training for my second half marathon coming up this Summer, signing a new lease for an apartment in one of my favorite neighborhoods in Brooklyn, and re-enrolling into an online Masters of Counseling Program. I also returned home to Austin for my seventh SXSW. Being back, I was reminded me of the city’s liveliness and its love for all art forms from film to music. From seeing Indigo De Souza from a church pew, dancing to Thee Sacred Souls at Willie Nelson’s ranch, and seeing Chicago’s psych rock band Divino Niño at a backyard house show in the Cherrywood neighborhood. SXSW gives artists a platform to be heard from unconventional settings with captivated audiences.

things i’m enjoying

• Doing things with my hands. Lately, I am collaging and learning to make zines. I want to practice more playful creativity with no bounds.

• This bottle of wine tasted like fruit juice in the best way. The website says it tastes like Swedish Fish and sunshine drives, and I can confirm that is accurate.

• Love is Blind & Beef. Can we talk about the LIB Live Netflix crash?!

what i’m listening to

• Boygenius, the record. I can’t shake the urge to scream “Always an angel, never a god” every time I hear “Not Strong Enough.”

• My favorite main character song to listen to on a drive or a rainy commute on the subway. Can’t wait to see her at Baby’s All Right in June.

• Always updating and rotating this playlist with new artists and songs I’m discovering. Check it out here.

Forward this to a friend or write a note back. Send me what you’re listening to, running sock recommendations and who you’re rooting for on Love is Blind.

Besos

— Erica