I've been quiet here, but not because I've stopped writing.

Truth is, I've needed a space that lets me move more slowly.
Where the stories didn’t need to be polished—only honest.
Where I could write from the raw edge of memory and meaning.

That space is The Open Draft my new publication on Substack. It’s where I’m writing essays that live closer to the bone, mirroring the work I’m doing on my book. If you’ve ever felt alone in your healing journey, or longed to make sense of where you come from and who you’re learning to live as now, I think this space might feel like coming home.

What does a bummer lamb have to do with this?

A friend recently sent me the story of the bummer lamb.
It’s the lamb who gets rejected by its mother. Left behind. Unwanted.
But if the shepherd finds it, they’ll take it in. Bottle-feed it. Hold it close.

And something extraordinary happens:
The bummer lamb grows up differently. It knows the shepherd’s voice.
It becomes the one who walks closest to the heart of the shepherd—because it had to be carried.

That story undid me.
Because I know what it’s like to be the one who had to be carried.
To feel like I didn’t quite fit the place I started from.
To bloom late. To find belonging in unexpected ways.

And that’s what this new space is about.
Not proving. Not polishing. Not waiting for someday.

Just writing. Honestly. Now.

Here's what you'll find:

- Thoughtful essays on healing, grief, and finding your voice (twice a month)

- Gentle prompts for your own reflection

- A deeper layer for those who want to sit closer to the creative fire Subscribe here (it's free)

I don’t know when I’ll return to this newsletter. But please know I haven’t disappeared.
I’m simply writing at a different pace, in a space that lets these words breathe.

Thank you for walking with me.

With tenderness and deep thanks,

​
Lisa Marie
Your blooming-late bestie

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Whenever you are ready, here's how I can help you:​​

1. Connect with me on ​Instagram and Threads​
2. Join me on Substack ​👉 Here​​

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