A twentysomething-year-old introvert aiming to speak her truth. — Hello Medium friends. Being that I spend hours on this platform every day, I figured it was time I properly introduce myself. Let me start with where I’m from. I’ve been in the United States my entire life and was born and raised in the state of Oregon. And yes…

Yes, I am a beautiful and unique snowflake with many assets — I just finished reading an article on why — as a new writer on Medium— people may not be reading my stories. The main piece of advice was to, “Write a personal story that lets people get to know you.” After all, why would someone invest time reading your 8…

The journey is never linear — “You’re looking really toned lately, Carly.” Who doesn’t love to be told that? “Thanks,” I replied. Now, a week later, I can’t get what was meant to be a “compliment” out of my head. I wonder why Since my recovery from compulsive exercise, I have stopped chasing goals related to my physique, remembering…

Trying to find answers is like searching for a needle in a haystack — I deal with chronic pelvic pain that often spreads up into my abdomen. When I have a flare-up, intercourse is painful and I can’t fully release my bladder without sitting on the toilet for over fifteen minutes, trying to relax and tell my body it’s safe. I’m lucky if I…

I just want you near — A moody Monday greets me after a chilly evening says goodbye. But I was not cold from burning emotion and feelings I let go unsaid. Laying alone in this bed wondering what to do instead. The morning is now here and I wish you’d whisper in my ear — please tell me you want…

It doesn't make sense and something needs to change — After talking to two struggling friends yesterday afternoon, I felt heavy, maybe even angry. One of them is in a toxic relationship. She’s 7 months pregnant, working two jobs, and raising her 12-year-old son nearly by herself. …

And no, this is not a joke — Ever since I was a teenager, I’ve developed itchy hives on my skin when exposed to cold weather. I first noticed it after wearing shorts in the rain. When I got inside to warmer temperatures, I looked down at my thighs and they were red, bumpy, and swollen. Then, one…

But maybe this was a blessing in disguise? — We left town last week and will be away from home for close to two weeks. My partner had work training for a few days, so we rented an Airbnb before heading to the Oregon coast to spend time with his family. After our first night away from home, I…

Stopped by a fire, but saved by a hidden road — Snacks, clothes, and toiletries were packed. The dog was ready to go “bye-bye,” and I’d even made up two cheese and chicken burritos for the road. “Do you have the tickets?” He asked me. I knew I absolutely did not have the tickets to the show we were on our…